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Cecilia Forest - Constantia, Cape Town

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(As the crow flies. Road distance will differ.)

One of the most popular routes leads to the Cecilia Waterfall, a delightful payoff for those who tackle the moderate ascent through the forest’s heart. (Image adapted). © Joeys Journeys

Stepping into Cecilia Forest feels like entering a secret world of dappled light, rustling leaves and hidden watercourses. (Image adapted). © Wanderboat

Cecilia Forest - Constantia, Cape Town

Nestled on the verdant lower eastern slopes of Table Mountain in the leafy Constantia valley of Cape Town, Cecilia Forest is one of the city’s most treasured yet under-appreciated natural escapes. Officially part of Table Mountain National Park, this enchanting woodland was once a commercial plantation and is now protected for recreation and conservation. The name “Cecilia” actually derives from Cecil Rhodes, who once owned the land, though its history stretches back long before colonial times to the indigenous Khoisan who roamed these slopes.

Stepping into Cecilia Forest feels like entering a secret world of dappled light, rustling leaves and hidden watercourses. The Cecilia Forest Hiking Trail consists of a network of well-marked paths weaving through towering trees, a mix of regenerating indigenous forest and remnants of the old plantation and carpeted fynbos, the distinctive flora of the Cape. There’s a calm hush here that’s rare so close to a bustling city, with birdsong and the gurgle of streams as your soundtrack. Whether you’re after a gentle amble or a more invigorating trek, the terrain has something to match most appetites for adventure.

One of the most popular routes leads to the Cecilia Waterfall, a delightful payoff for those who tackle the moderate ascent through the forest’s heart. Best visited after winter rains when the cascades are in full flow, the waterfall sits tucked into a fern-clad ravine where you can pause to cool off, savour a snack or simply absorb the serenity. Other trails branch out to link with neighbouring Constantia Nek or even the famed Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, offering hikers a chance to extend their journey through fynbos slopes and upland contours with sweeping views over the Constantia valley and Cape Flats beyond.

For families, casual walkers or dog lovers, Cecilia Forest’s contour paths provide a shaded, mostly gentle circuit that rewards without exhausting. There’s no entrance fee, and parking near the trailhead on Rhodes Drive makes the forest easy to access from Cape Town’s southern suburbs in under half an hour. Do be mindful that facilities such as toilets or taps aren’t available on site, so come prepared with water and snacks. Like all natural areas, it’s best enjoyed between sunrise and sunset, and taking sensible precautions, staying on marked trails, letting someone know your plans and keeping valuables out of sight, ensures a peaceful outing in this verdant urban sanctuary.

More than just a hike, Cecilia Forest is a living tapestry of Cape Town’s ecological and cultural heritage. From the delicate play of wildflowers and fynbos underfoot to the glint of sunlight through the canopy, it embodies the spirit of the Cape’s unique biodiversity. For visitors seeking a travel experience that marries tranquillity with the thrill of discovery, this hidden gem offers a refreshing counterpoint to the city’s more famous peaks and panoramas - a place where the everyday rush gives way to a slower, more mindful pace amidst nature’s quiet splendour.

Cecilia Forest Hiking Trails starting point: -34.007159596968975, 18.417588265839928
(Minimal car parking space available)

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Accommodation Near Cecilia Forest - Constantia, Cape Town

Showing 1 to 10 of 10 results

Sleeps 6 in 2 units

Bel Ombre Cottages

Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town

1.3km from Cecilia Forest - Constantia, Cape Town

Bel 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.

Sleeps 24 in 4 units

Le Bonheur Villas and Cottages

Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town

1.3km from Cecilia Forest - Constantia, Cape Town

Le 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.

Sleeps 4 in 1 unit

^FromR 1600

Per person, per night sharing

* Rates may vary according to season

Pepper Hollow

Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town

2.3km from Cecilia Forest - Constantia, Cape Town

Pepper Hollow offers self catering cottage accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town. The accommodation consists of one self-catering cottage with 2 bedrooms. The main bedroom has a queen size bed & dressing table with an en-suite bathroom. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 33 in 9 units

Waterland Lodge

Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hout Bay

3km from Cecilia Forest - Constantia, Cape Town

Waterland Lodge provides self catering accommodation in Hout Bay, Cape Town. We have 7 self catering cottages to choose from to to ensure a great stay in Hout Bay. Lush river banks, mountain forests and a central location set amongst Hout Bay's... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Guest Rating: 10

Sleeps 10 in 4 units

^FromR 990

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

Constantia Thatch Lodge

Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town

3.3km from Cecilia Forest - Constantia, Cape Town

Constantia Thatch Lodge provides a choice of self catering accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town. Constantia Thatch Lodge offers self-catering accommodation for 10 guests in 2 cottages and 2 private suites. Private entrance and patios. Pool, secure parki …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Graded:

Sleeps 18 in 9 units

Fernwood Manor

Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Newlands, Cape Town

4km from Cecilia Forest - Constantia, Cape Town

Fernwood 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.

Sleeps 19 in 6 units

^FromR 1800

Per unit, per night

* Rates may vary according to season

At Villa Fig Guest House

Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town

4.2km from Cecilia Forest - Constantia, Cape Town

Holiday or business, bed and breakfast or self catering... come to At Villa Fig Guest House, situated in the tranquil Constantia Valley and enjoy the mountain views from your bedroom and balcony. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Graded:

Sleeps 15 in 5 units

Paradiso Guesthouse

Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town

4.4km from Cecilia Forest - Constantia, Cape Town

Paradiso Guesthouse provides both bed and breakfast and self catering accommodation in Constantia, Cape Town. Set in a tranquil treed garden with panoramic views of the distant Constantiaberg Mountains, Constantia valley and its wine farms... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 6 in 2 units

Kaya La Provence Self Catering Cottage

Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Plumstead

4.5km from Cecilia Forest - Constantia, Cape Town

Kaya La Provence provides self catering accommodation in Plumstead, Cape Town. Situated in a secure and safe neighbourhood on the border of Constantia and Plumstead, Kaya La Provence offers a warm and relaxed atmosphere with a beautiful Self Catering... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

Sleeps 6 in 2 units

Kaya La Provence

Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Plumstead

4.5km from Cecilia Forest - Constantia, Cape Town

Situated in a secure and safe neighbourhood on the border of Constantia and Plumstead, Kaya La Provence offers a warm and relaxed atmosphere with two B&B Suites in the Manor House. Experience outdoor living with a communal swimming pool, outdoor Jacuzzi. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.

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