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Countdown to the 2006 Cape Argus: Where to Watch the Show

Countdown: The Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour is just 1 day away! (Counting today.)

Tomorrow, the city comes to a virtual standstill as tens of thousands of spectators fill their cooler boxes and grab their deck chairs, sunscreen and hats, and line the route to watch the 35,000 cyclists whoosh by.

Cape Town weather forecast: click here.

Top vantage points:

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  • Camps Bay Beachfront: A great place to watch the cyclists flash past. Choose from the restaurants of Camps Bay or the grassed verge that fronts the beach. A pedestrian bridge allows you to cross the cycle stream.
  • Sea Point Queens Road: This is the a steep downhill and an exciting place to watch the cyclists make a sharp left turn from Victoria Road into Queens Road and negotiate the tricky traffic islands. A pedestrian bridge also allows crossing here.
  • Sea Point Beach Road: There are many good places along the promenade to watch the cyclists make their run into the finish. There are pedestrian bridges at St. Johns Road and Western Boulevard.
  • Suikerbosse: This is the prime spot on the whole tour to see what the event is all about. Suikerbossie’s an unrelenting climb and all cyclists find it tough as they are tired and moving slowly. They need all the encouragement you can give. This area can be accessed on foot from the streets of Hout Bay, or Nooitgedacht Road.

  • Newlands Forest: Accessible from the east side of the M3, as well as the pedestrian subway at the “Parks and Forest” area. There is one refreshment station and spectators will be treated to some fast riding by the still fresh and excited cyclists.
  • Paradise Road (near Paradise Motors): This point is accessible from Claremont, Kenilworth. A good place view the cyclists as they speed down Paradise Road and start climbing up Edinburgh Drive.
  • Edinburgh Drive (up to top of Wynberg Hill – outbound): The steepest gradient of the Cycle Tour will give spectators the chance to cheer and inspire the cyclists as they struggle up the first climb of the route. Spectators wishing to spot family and friends will find this an ideal vantage point.
  • Main Road / Steenberg Road (Muizenberg): This is an easily accessible vantage point which allows spectators the chance to see the cyclists as they speed towards the sea.
  • Kalk Bay and St. James are great places to see the cyclists flash past while enjoying breakfast at the many restaurants in this area, like Olympia Cafe.
  • Fish Hoek always has many supporters and good places to watch from include the traffic circle and the Main Road in the centre of town.
  • Glencairn Beach: Pedestrian access to the grassed area (Glen Ridge side) with large lawns opposite the beach. Or make your way to the Glencairn Hotel / Southern Right or Dixies restaurant.
  • Simon’s Town Main Road: preferably on foot for local residents, and Jubilee Square will have a great vibe with lots of activities.
  • Scarborough: Gain access to Main Road on foot or view from pubs and restaurants along the road.
  • Hout Bay (corner Princess and Main / Chapman’s Peak Drive): Access to the area (M65 Main Road) preferably on foot for local residents.