The magnificent

I don't know why I've always thought Africa is spectacular. The simplest answer might be that it is. But nearly every place has its magical vistas, charmed pathways, and secret gardens. It still seems more than that to me. Below are some photos to convince you that I might have a point, and a little speculation about why it can be so magnificent. Be sure to click the images to see them in a larger format.

Beach

The foot path to Cape Point runs along beaches that can be accessed via a stairway, seen below. This the south-eastern most point of Africa, maybe the extremes make it special?

A beach where Jackass penguins are common. The exotic animals can't be overlooked as part of the experience.

These are the stairs that lead to the beach off the  Cape Point trail. Maybe the light helps rarefy the experience?

This is Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. As with the animals, the plants are exotic, and exciting. There is something else here; a grand vision, long term dedication to beauty, and labor. Loads of labor, it's something you notice in Africa.

The king protea, a Cape flower.

There is a very good aquarium. Sometimes the injection of the familiar, like going to the aquarium on a rainy day, catches you off guard, and you appreciate it all the more.

Hiking trials are always fun to explore. The ladders make it all the better. This one goes up from Kirstenbosch gardens to the top of Table Mountain.

Occasional the view opens up, and you can see a little ways.

Cheetahs, it's hard to get over things like this, even though it's just a tourist trap.










All in all, it's alright here. You might even call it nourishing.