Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse

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The old lighthouse can be spotted in the top left corner. The new lighthouse is further down the point. © Diego Delso, License
Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse. (Image adapted). © Mike Peel, License

Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse

The Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse, located on the Cape Peninsula within the Table Mountain National Park, is a historic and iconic landmark. This lighthouse, often referred to as the Old Cape Point Lighthouse, has played a crucial role in maritime navigation since its construction.

History and Significance: The Old Cape Point Lighthouse was completed in 1859 and was the first lighthouse built at Cape Point. Its construction was prompted by the need to improve maritime safety around the treacherous waters of the Cape Peninsula. The lighthouse was situated at a higher elevation of 249 meters (817 feet) above sea level, which made it visible from a great distance. However, due to frequent fog and mist, it often became obscured, leading to several shipwrecks in the area. As a result, the New Cape Point Lighthouse was later built at a lower altitude in 1919 to provide better visibility.

Structure and Features: The Old Cape Point Lighthouse is a cylindrical tower built from stone, standing at 11 meters (36 feet) tall. The light emitted from the lighthouse was visible for up to 32 kilometers (20 miles), with a characteristic flash every 30 seconds. The lighthouse's design includes a distinctive red and white striped pattern, which made it easily recognizable to sailors. Although it was eventually replaced by the New Cape Point Lighthouse, the Old Lighthouse remains a significant historical structure.

Visitor Experience: The Old Cape Point Lighthouse is accessible to visitors and offers a glimpse into the maritime history of the Cape Peninsula. It is located at the top of a steep and rugged hill, which can be reached by a short but strenuous hike from the Cape Point parking area. The path to the lighthouse is well-maintained and provides spectacular views of the surrounding coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.

Once at the Old Lighthouse, visitors can explore the historic structure, enjoy the panoramic views from its elevated position, and learn about the challenges faced by early lighthouse keepers. The site also offers a chance to reflect on the maritime heritage of the Cape Peninsula and the evolution of navigational aids in the region.

Conservation and Preservation: The Old Cape Point Lighthouse is preserved as part of the Table Mountain National Park, and its historical significance is carefully maintained. The lighthouse, along with the surrounding natural environment, is managed by the South African National Parks (SANParks). Visitors are encouraged to respect the site and follow park regulations to help preserve this historic landmark.

Contact Information:
Address: Cape Point, Table Mountain National Park, Cape Peninsula, Cape Town, South Africa
Phone Number: +27 (0)21 780 9010
Website: Cape Point - Table Mountain National Park

Overall, the Old Cape Point Lighthouse offers a fascinating historical perspective and stunning views of the Cape Peninsula. It is a must-visit destination for those interested in maritime history and the natural beauty of this iconic part of South Africa.

Accommodation Near Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse

Showing 1 to 10 of 10 results

Sleeps 10 in 5 units

^FromR 6500

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

Aqua Terra Boutique Guesthouse

Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Simon's Town

14.1km from Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse

Aqua Terra Boutique Guesthouse is situated in the quiet suburb of Murdock Valley in Simon's Town and offers accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis.Situated in a prime position 5 minutes from the beach, this landmark house overlooks the entire False …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 20 in 8 units

^FromR 800

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

Boulders Beach Hotel, Cafe and Curios

Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Boulders

15.9km from Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse

Boulders Beach Hotel is Boulders, Simon's Town is situated just 70 meters from the World Heritage Site of Boulders Beach renowned for it's breeding African Penguin Colony. This is one of the 'must see' recommendations for tourists visiting Cape Town. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 20 in 8 units

^FromR 1495

Per person, per night sharing

* Rates may vary according to season

Mariner Guesthouse

Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Simon's Town

16.6km from Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse

Custom built on the mountainside in historical Simon's Town, award-winning Mariner Guesthouse offers breathtaking sea views across False Bay. We are within walking distance of restaurants and beaches, and pride ourselves on offering style... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

^FromR 2500

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

Bay Splendour

Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Simon's Town

18.4km from Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse

Bay Splendour, nestles in a quiet cul-de-sac only ten minutes walk from the old world charm of Simon's Town, South Africa's premier naval station. A coastal gem of peace and tranquillity, Bay Splendour has a spacious open-plan lounge and kitchen... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 8 in 1 unit

^FromR 4800

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

Atlantic Dream Beachfront Villa

Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Scarborough

19.6km from Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse

This luxurious double storey beachfront villa in Scarborough (sleeps 8) offers privacy, beauty and security. If you seek a safe and peaceful beach retreat within easy reach of the Cape Town Buzz, don't miss here. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 6 in 3 units

^FromR 1025

Per person, per night sharing

* Rates may vary according to season

Moonglow Guest House

Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Simon's Town

19.9km from Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse

Moonglow Guest House offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Glencairn, on the slopes of the Simon's Town Mountains overlooking False Bay.There are 6 well appointed ensuite bedrooms all with seaviews. 4 rooms have queen beds and all rooms have... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 6 in 1 unit

^FromR 2700

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

The Crags

Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Fish Hoek

22km from Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse

Come and stay in one of the original farm buildings in Fish Hoek, Cape Town within a stone's throw of the beach. This self catering apartment (sleeps 6) provides spacious, well-appointed, up-market accommodation with magnificent views across False Bay. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 8 in 4 units

^FromR 650

Per person, per night sharing

* Rates may vary according to season

A Tuscan Villa Guest House

Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Fish Hoek

22.3km from Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse

Bed and breakfast accommodation in Fish Hoek, Cape Town. The villa boasts 4 spacious en-suite rooms named according to the direction they face. While each room has its own special attributes all rooms have Posturepedic beds, 100% percale cotton linen... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Guest Rating: 10

Sleeps 6 in 1 unit

^FromR 650

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

Upstairs @ No. 42

Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Fish Hoek

22.5km from Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse

UPSTAIRS @ No. 42 is a real home from home with beautiful mountain views and conveniently appointed for a relaxing break. Drive into secure parking right at the entrance. Up the stairs you will find a lounge-dining-kitchen area - fully equipped with TV & …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 10 in 3 units

^FromR 850

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

A Place In Thyme

Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Fish Hoek

23km from Cape of Good Hope Old Lighthouse

Situated on the mountainside in Fish Hoek, A Place in Thyme offers accommodation in three separate units: the cottage (sleeps 5); Small Thyme (sleeps 2) and Big Thyme (sleeps 2 adults & 2 children; or 3 adults.) …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

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