Constantia Nek

Nestled atop a low pass through the Table Mountain range, Constantia Nek links the leafy suburb of Constantia with Hout Bay via Rhodes Drive, Constantia Road, and Hout Bay Main Road meeting at its summit. At 212 m above sea level, it's the highest point on the Two Oceans Marathon ultra‑route. 🗺️ Hiking & Routes Constantia Nek serves as a popular trailhead into Table Mountain—featuring the modest Jeep Track, access to De Villiers Dam, and connections to the Contour Path toward Kirstenbosch, Orange Kloof, and the Jeep/Bridle Track ascending to the plateau. The moderate 6–7 km out‑and‑back route to De Villiers Dam is a favourite day‑hike (~1.5–2.5 h) with minimal scrambling. 🌿 Scenery & Nature Trails wind through endangered Peninsula Granite Fynbos, framed by shady trees, mossy granite walls, and sweeping vistas over vineyards, the southern suburbs, and False Bay. Hikers report sightings of dassies, sunbirds, proteas, and historic dams—especially springtime blooms. 🚶 Visitor Experience The trail is well‑marked and family-friendly. Flat sections suit strollers and fitness walkers, while early-morning hikes offer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. There are no entrance fees, and the route is well‑used and considered safe. 📍 Facilities & Access Constantia Nek Parking is free and frequently busy on weekends, with a coffee truck and produce stalls nearby. It’s also served by public transport, taxis, and is about a 30-minute walk from Constantia Village. ⚠️ Safety Tips

Wear sturdy shoes and bring water and sun protection—exposed sections can get hot.
Walk dogs on leash, respect trail etiquette, and stay on marked paths.
Trafficable routes vary—steep climbs early on give way to flat jeep track paths later.
Fires near trails have occurred; report any smoke to SANParks immediately.

✅ Why Visit?

Feature	What to Expect
Gentler Table Mountain route	Easier than Platteklip Gorge or Skeleton Gorge
Scenic dam & plateau views	Rewarding summit at De Villiers Dam
Trail network gateway	Connects to Kirstenbosch, dams & Orange Kloof
Year-round accessibility	No permit or fee required
Good value experience	Free trail access, coffee stalls, and stunning views

💡 Pro Tips

Start early on weekends for parking and tranquility.
Ideal for sunrise views over False Bay with a cool morning swim at the dam.
Combine with loops via Alexandra or Victoria Dams for a longer afternoon hike.
SanParks hiking routes offer historic touchpoints like century-old reticulation dams and a small museum near Woodland Dam.

🏁 In Summary

Constantia Nek is a scenic, accessible and versatile starting point for exploring Table Mountain’s Back Table. Whether you're after a gentle forest stroll, mountain views, or linking into longer trails like Kirstenbosch or Orange Kloof, it offers nature, history, and exceptional vistas—all without the steep climbs of classic routes. 📍 Trailhead at Constantia Nek circle (Rhodes Drive, Cape Town)