Devils Peak View From Signal Hill
Photo Caption: Tag someone you’d hike #lionshead for sunrise with.
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Photo by @instacptguy
Devil’s Peak, standing 1,000 meters high, forms part of the mountainous backdrop of Cape Town along with Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and Signal Hill. It is one of the major landmarks in the city and it sits just above the city bowl.
It was originally known as “Windberg” because the top of the mountain is very windy. But how did it get its name today? According to legend, a pirate from Holland named Jan Van Hunks lived in the city, and he liked to smoke on the mountain. One day, as he sat smoking at his favourite spot, another smoking man came past, who later on revealed himself to be the devil. A ferocious pipe smoking contest ensued between the two men. Smoke then covered the mountain which we now call the Table Cloth.
The mountain where the smoking contest was held was then called the Devil’s Peak. Van Hunks was the victor of the contest, but legend has it that he lost his soul to the devil. And every time the Table Cloth covers the mountains, it is believed that Van Hunks is again having a smoking contest with the devil to win his soul back.
Devil’s Peak is also one of Cape Town’s top hiking destinations. It has a well-marked route which starts at the end of Tafelberg road about 2 kilometers pass the lower cable station. There are also several other routes leading to the summit. At the top, Devil’s Peak offers a stunning 360-degree view of the city. Take in the breathtaking mountain scenery, picturesque bays, beaches, and harbours.
With accessible hiking trails, challenging climbs, and panoramic city views – Devil’s Peak is totally worth the visit.
