Arniston

Two hours' drive from Cape Town, the old fishing village of Arniston exudes an authentically quaint atmosphere.

This small village that has become popular for weekend retreats has two names: Arniston, in memory of the 372 people who drowned on the HMS Arniston, wrecked off the coast in 1815; and Waenhuiskrans, (wagon house cliff) derived from the enormous cave so named because it was said that a wagon and span of oxen could turn full circle within it.

Take a walk over the sand dunes before clambering over the rock pools to reach the enormous cavern - remember to check the tides first as you can only visit the Waenhuiskrans cave at low tide.

The tiny fishing community of Kassiesbaai can be found on the edge of Arniston, living in cottages that have changed little in 200 years. The entire collection of thatched, sandstone fisherman's cottages, has been declared a National Monument and you have to be born there in order to live there.

The people of Kassiesbaai still earn their livelihood from the sea, although by booking through the Arniston Hotel you can have a delicious, fresh meal made by one of the fisherman's wives or you can visit the Kassiesbaai Craft Shop.

Arniston is also notable for its pearly white beaches, unspoilt sand dunes and the whales that can be seen off shore between June and November. Writers and painters are known to come here for peace and inspiration.

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