Slangkop Lighthouse

Slangkop stands about thirty-three metres, which makes it the tallest cast-iron lighthouse in South Africa - a white tapering tower of bolted iron plates rather than masonry. It was due to be finished in 1914, but the First World War delayed it and it was inaugurated only on 4 March 1919, though a ship noted it in use in 1917. The light guards a coast with a bad wreck record, and the Kakapo, aground on Noordhoek beach nearby, is a reminder of what happens when captains misjudge this shore in fog. A boardwalk runs along the rocky coast from Kommetjie village past kelp beds and tidal pools to the tower, which is a pleasant twenty-minute walk on its own. The lighthouse can be climbed when staff are on duty, and from the gallery the Peninsula runs south towards Cape Point. Sunset here is a local ritual and the wind is usually part of it.

History

Building was due to be finished in 1914, but the First World War delayed it; a ship's log recorded the light in use on 19 July 1917, and the 33m iron tower was inaugurated on 4 March 1919 (Wikipedia, Slangkop Lighthouse).

Highlights

• The cast-iron tower - the tallest of its type in the country, bolted from iron plates.
• The delayed opening - due in 1914, inaugurated in 1919 after the war.
• The shore boardwalk - a walk from Kommetjie past kelp beds and tidal pools.
• The gallery view - the Peninsula running south toward Cape Point.

When to go

All year. One hour including the walk. Sunset is the local habit.

Things to know

Climbing depends on staff being present and hours are limited. The walk is exposed and windy. Break-ins have been reported at Kommetjie parking areas. There is little shelter on the shore path.

Nearby

Noordhoek beach and the Kakapo wreck are north; Cape Point is south.

Key facts