Cape Point Lighthouse
There are two lighthouses at Cape Point, however, there is only one still in operation. The old lighthouse was built in the late 1850s. It is on the highest section of Cape Point Peak at 238 meters above sea level. The equipment that was needed to build the lighthouse was shipped from England. There is a plaque on the old lighthouse that reads “Designed, specified and directed by. Alexander Gordon, Civil Engineer” This lighthouse was subjected to bad weather conditions and sometimes was obscured by fog.
The new 22-metre high lighthouse was built on a 15-metre high pinnacle of rock called Diaz Point in only 6 days at a lower altitude, closer to the tip of Cape Point, where it is less affected by weather conditions. It has been operating since it was first lit in 1960. The optic shines a revolving electric light with a candle power of 800,000 CD across the Atlantic Ocean every 10 seconds. It is visible for 25 nautical miles
The new lighthouse is a critical aid for maritime navigation, guiding ships safely around the treacherous Cape Peninsula.
Cape Point Lighthouse walk
Begin the walk at the parking lot. Starting behind the upper funicular station. The Walk descends below the Old Lighthouse on the False Bay side of the cliffs. It levels out before reaching the viewpoint above the New Lighthouse.
Observation points have been built on either side, where you can enjoy incredible views. Whales can often be seen in spring. The easy 2 km walk takes about an hour
( 34°21′26″S18°29′51″E )
