Braaing is a unique national pastime and of course part of South Africa’s rich cultural heritage. A braai has become a bonding tradition among family and friends and is common during the festive season holidays. Cape Town has a few braai spots that will get you bonding around the fire.

For those wanting to unwind and relax by sharing a ‘boerie’ (boerewors) with loved ones, here are a few of Cape Town’s most recommended braai spots by CapeTownMagazine.com:

Forests are ideal as they not only serve as an ideal place for braais, they are spacious with tranquil scenery.

Tokai Forest serves as one of Cape Town’s favourite braai spots. Braai lovers can be surrounded by a lush of gigantic trees in the forest scenery but it is also a haven for parents as there is plenty of room for children to play. Entrance is R20 for adults and R10 for children and R20 for cars. The park is located just before Tokai Manor House and is open from 7am until 6pm. For more assistance call 021 7127471.

Newlands Forrest is the a place to unwind while breathing in the smell of pine while having your borie on the fire. Entrance is R20 per adult, R10 per child and R20 per vehicle. A secure parking bay within the fenced-in braai area will cost you R10. The entrance to Newlands Forest can be found along the M3 freeway near the University of Cape Town and trading hours are 8am until 6pm. For more information call 021 422 1601.

Wynberg Park, home to the crystal waters of the Krakeelwater River, has shady spots and serves as a haven to parents and children as it has a playground facility that will keep children occupied all day. Entry is free. Wynberg Park can be found on the corner of Klaasens and Trovato Link roads. Trading hours are between 8am and 6pm.

Another spot that is perfect to unwind and absorb the tranquil scenery are braai spots located close to the coast. Here are a few that are open to the public all year around.

Maiden’s Cove is enclosed by grassy gulfs, the whitest sands and sea. Ideal for those wanting to catch a tan while transfixed by the smell of the sea. Its a safe place for children as there are shallow tidal pools for them to swim in. There are also braai spots available to the public. The area is located between Clifton and Glen Beach.

Oudekraal is a quiet spot to get away and enjoy the seaside while bonding around a braai fire. Braai spots are accompanied by seating along a hillside with a view of the ocean. The swimming area is secure as children are sheltered from high tide by boulders. It is located between Camps Bay and Llhanduno beach. The entry fee is R35 per adult and R15 per children.

Little Bay is ideal for kite surfing and windsurfing against a backdrop of Table Mountain. Although this area is a coastal one the braai spots are situated on grass. Entry is free and it is located 20 minutes from Cape Town in Blouberg.

Regardless if you’re planning to enjoy the scenic atmosphere of the coast or forest, there is a braai spot that will best serve your needs. VOC