Simonstown
Harsh in climate, gentle in lifestyle and breathtaking in beauty, the Groot Karoo is a place of extremes.
Situated along the coastline of False Bay, Simonstown is a beautiful and historical bayside centre. The Simonstown harbor was founded in 1687 as a naval depot and has played a strong role in South African naval history ever since. At first it provided valuable anchorage during the Dutch colonial era until it was eventually taken over by the British to serve as the Royal Navy's main South Atlantic base in 1814. The Simonstown navy base was officially turned over to South Africa in 1957.
Today Simonstown is still very much a naval town but it is also home to a busy commercial and leisure craft industry as well as a thriving tourism trade. The local beaches are picturesque and visitors and locals often head to the shores to cool down on hot days. Seaforth and Foxy beach are popular as they offer somewhat more secluded surroundings while Boulders beach is known for its wildlife spotting opportunities.
Most visitors, however, spend more time in Simonstreet's main road, which is known as 'The Historical Mile' than they do at the beaches. Many of the buildings lining this street have been around since the founding of the city and are more than 150 years old. A walking tour of this fascinating town center is one of the best ways to learn the history of the place. Tours will usually also include interesting buildings such as the Old Residency which is also the museum and which holds the Able Seaman Just Nuisance display - a the honorary Great Dane dog who made the naval base his home. His statue graces Jubilee Square. Of more maritime-related significance is the South African Naval Museum.
If you're looking for something a little different, the Warrior Toy Museum is quite unusual and the Topstones Mineral World is a great place to pick up some gemstone jewelry. The controversial Die Stem Pastorie is devoted to the countries national emblems as well as to the origin of the Old Afrikaans national anthem and the old South African flag. Simonstown is also home to the oldest English church in South Africa which was consecrated in 1814.
If you visit this charming little town, you fill find Simonstown's accommodation quite good. Besides seeing the fascinating historical attractions that are so abundant here, you can organize to go on a sea kayak trip out to boulders beach where you can spy the penguins in their natural habitat. Or you can paddle out towards Glencairn Beach where you are more likely to be graced by the graceful Southern Right whales that come here to calf. Longer more adventurous kayaking trips are also available. You can be sure that Simonstown, South Africa will be an enjoyable journey into the countries interesting past.
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