Maclears Beacon - Table Mountain, Cape Town
Maclears Beacon - Table Mountain, Cape Town
Maclear's Beacon, standing at 1,086 meters (3,563 feet) above sea level, is the highest point on Table Mountain, one of Cape Town's most iconic landmarks. Named after Sir Thomas Maclear, an Irish-born astronomer and surveyor, the beacon was constructed in 1865 as a triangulation station for geodetic surveys. Maclear's work was crucial in the 19th century for mapping and understanding the region’s geography, contributing significantly to the field of astronomy and geodesy.
Reaching Maclear's Beacon involves a trek across the top of Table Mountain, providing hikers with an opportunity to experience the unique flora and fauna of this natural wonder. The route typically begins at the upper cableway station, following the marked paths through the fynbos-covered plateau. The hike offers breathtaking panoramic views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding mountains, making it a rewarding journey for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
The beacon itself is a simple stone cairn, yet it holds great historical and scientific significance. Sir Thomas Maclear's work, in collaboration with the famous French astronomer Abbé Nicolas Louis de Lacaille, helped correct earlier measurements of the Earth's curvature and contributed to the verification of the Earth's shape. This accomplishment highlights the beacon's role not only as a navigational aid but also as a monument to scientific progress and exploration.
Visitors to Maclear's Beacon can enjoy the serene environment and spectacular vistas that stretch out in all directions. The location is also a great spot for photography, picnicking, and reflection, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city below. The combination of natural beauty, historical importance, and scientific achievement makes Maclear's Beacon a noteworthy destination on Table Mountain.
Five interesting things about Maclear's Beacon:
1. Highest Point: Maclear's Beacon is the highest point on Table Mountain, standing at 1,086 meters above sea level.
2. Historical Significance: The beacon was constructed in 1865 by Sir Thomas Maclear as part of his geodetic survey work, which was crucial for mapping and understanding the region's geography.
3. Scientific Contributions: Maclear's work, alongside Abbé Nicolas Louis de Lacaille, helped correct earlier measurements of the Earth's curvature and contributed to the understanding of the Earth's shape.
4. Hiking Destination: Reaching Maclear's Beacon involves a hike across Table Mountain's plateau, offering stunning panoramic views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean, and surrounding landscapes.
5. Flora and Fauna: The hike to the beacon passes through the unique fynbos biome, which is part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity and endemic plant species.
Accommodation Near Maclears Beacon - Table Mountain, Cape Town
Fernwood Manor
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Newlands, Cape Town
2.5km from Maclears Beacon - Table Mountain, Cape TownFernwood Manor is an elegant colonial style home in the leafy suburb of Newlands surrounded by lush greenery with wonderful mountain views. Our exclusive guest house, catering for no more than 16 guests, ensures warm friendly personal service... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Glencoy
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Claremont
3.5km from Maclears Beacon - Table Mountain, Cape TownGlencoy provides self catering accommodation in Claremont, Cape Town. Glencoy is an upmarket, private self-catering apartment and en-suite guest room. It is situated in the quiet residential area of Upper Claremont. With a striking view of Table Mountain. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
5 Camp Street
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Cape Town
3.6km from Maclears Beacon - Table Mountain, Cape Town5 Camp Street provides self catering accommodation in Gardens, Cape Town City Bowl. Ideally situated in the central, trendy and historic suburb of Gardens, on the lower slopes of Table Mountain. Within easy walking distance of Kloof Street... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Liberty Lodge
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Cape Town
3.9km from Maclears Beacon - Table Mountain, Cape TownLiberty Lodge provides guests with bed and breakfast accommodation in Tamboerskloof, Gardens, Cape Town City Bowl. Over the years, this classic Cape Town bed & breakfast has earned an enviable reputation for relaxed and genuine hospitality. Originally a V …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Aview
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Camps Bay, Cape Town
4.1km from Maclears Beacon - Table Mountain, Cape TownThis striking luxury villa offers unobstructed views of both the mountain & Camps Bay. It is close to the beach, restaurants, clubs, bars, Cape Town, V&A Waterfront, Golf courses & wine routes. The pool, Jacuzzi & gamesroom are big hits with guests! …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Knightsbury Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Rondebosch
4.4km from Maclears Beacon - Table Mountain, Cape TownThere are 4 tastefully decorated rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Each is fitted with all the amenities necessary to making sure their guests' needs are attended to. The Knight's are an impressive double act at breakfast, which is indulgent with... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bel Ombre Cottages
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town
4.6km from Maclears Beacon - Table Mountain, Cape TownBel Ombre Cottages provide self catering cottage accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town. Bel Ombre Cottages are luxuriously furnished and fully equipped self catering cottages in the beautiful Constantia Valley, the ideal base from which to explore... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
3 On Camps Bay Boutique Hotel
Hotel / Boutique Hotel Accommodation in Camps Bay, Cape Town
4.8km from Maclears Beacon - Table Mountain, Cape Town3 on Camps Bay is a luxury 16 bedroom Guesthouse in the up-market and trendy Camps Bay, Cape Town. Located in a cul-de-sac overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, 3 On Camps Bay offers a quiet retreat where you can vacation in the utmost luxury and pamper. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Valley Heights B&B / Guest House
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Kenilworth
4.8km from Maclears Beacon - Table Mountain, Cape TownValley Heights Guest House provides bed and breakfast and self catering accommodation in Kenilworth, Cape Town. Situated in the peaceful, safe and leafy suburb of Upper Kenilworth in Cape Town's Southern Suburbs and has easy access to major tourist... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Le Bonheur Villas and Cottages
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town
4.9km from Maclears Beacon - Table Mountain, Cape TownLe Bonheur Villa and Cottages offers a selection of self catering accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town. 4 self catering options are available: Villa - 6 bedrooms that sleeps 12, 4 bathrooms (3 en-suite). Protected from the summer winds... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
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