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History
Kommetjie's
name comes from the natural rock pool on the coast below Slangkop
Mountain. Legend has it that the "Kom" was used
centuries ago by the original inhabitants of these shores
for the trapping of fish at high tide. Translated, Kommetjie
means "little basin". Kommetjie began way back in
1743, when the farm Slangkop was given to the Widow Diemer
on condition that it was used to grow vegetables for the ships
of the Dutch East India Company.
Kommetjie Town started developing at the turn of the 20th
Century with the bus service running from here to Fish Hoek
being the first ever in the Cape. Kommetjie was, and still
is, a draw card to those seeking a day out to enjoy its beautiful
beaches, scenery and spectacular sunsets.
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Slangkop
Lighthouse
The lighthouse was erected in 1914 but was only commissioned after
the War in 1919. It is reputed to be the tallest of its kind on
the South African coast and is visible to ships from a distance
of 33 miles.
Open to visitors, the climb of 145 steps up a spiral staircase
is well worth the effort and affords panoramic views of this rugged
coastline. |
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Surfing
Kommetjie is home to the legendary
Long Beach, scene of many premier
surfing competitions. This and the
renowned Outer Kom are both
favorite surf spots for many local
and international surfing enthusiasts.
A kilometer out is Sunset Reef
providing big wave surfers with some
of the world's biggest rideable surf.
The beach itself is a haven for
sunbathers and walker/joggers and
provides beautiful views and
spectacular sunsets. |
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Fauna
& Flora
Bird watchers are in for a treat in the Kommetjie area with over
130 known species. The rocky coastline is host to such birds as
all four aquatic Cormorants, the Antarctic and transient Arctic
tern and even the rare African black oystercatcher. In nearby
mountains and wetlands Grand Woodpecker, Cape Sugarbird, Orangebreasted
Sunbird, Black Eagle, Peregrine falcon, Fish Eagle and Lesser
Flamingo.
Situated at the edge of the Cape Peninsular National Park, Kommetjie
is often visited by one or another of the few remaining troops
of baboons. Their bold and human-like antics prove a delight to
visitors but care should be taken to protect your meal from these
cunning animals. |
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