If you are looking for a secluded getaway, search no further than Coochiemudlo Island. This idyllic island off the coast of South Africa is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its ample opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming, and fishing, Coochiemudlo Island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.
Contents
History
Coochieemudlo is the native name for this island. The Dutch East India Company first discovered it in 1652, and the British took control of it in 1803. It was used as a penal colony until 1961, and today it is a popular tourist destination.
Natural wonders
The natural wonders on Coochiemudlo Island are plentiful and varied. There are stunning coastal cliffs, crystal-clear waterfalls, a suspension bridge, and many hiking trails. Because of its relatively untouched environment, the island is considered a marine park by UNESCO and has fantastic biodiversity.
The most impressive tree on Coochiemudlo Island is certainly Cape Parrot Bush (Lophospermum capitellatum). Also known as Koeipjiebos (“copper bush”), it grows only in coastal fynbos – or scrubland vegetation that occurs in areas.
Climate
The climate on Coochiemudlo Island is temperate, with a cool summer and mild winter. The rainy season lasts from November to March, and the rest of the year is dryer.
Geography
The geography on Coochiemudlo Island encompasses a number of small hills (Cape Parrot Bush being one), beaches, forests and national parks. The island is 51 km long – or about 18 miles by 25 miles – making it rather large for an area so close to Cape Town. Getting around this island can be a bit.
Culture
There is no actual town on Coochiemudlo Island, which means that visitors are largely reliant on the services and amenities that are available at the many beaches and nature reserves. The island’s culture rests mainly in its natural surroundings – hiking, biking, swimming, fishing and camping. Because it is fairly remote and there are few facilities on the island, Coochiemudlo Island has a very relaxed culture.
Climate of Cape Town Location Air Temperature (°C) Average high/low + highest lowest month Jan 17/12 54 / 14 60 August – Mar 11 41 / 5 80 May – Aug 20 9 34 48 April 25 Apr-Sep 1907 Oct Dec Source The Weather Network In case you would like to visit the colony.
Politics
The island is part of the Western Cape Provincial Municipality and is represented in the Parliament by Juan Schoeman. The town of Kalk Bay, located 12 kilometers off the coast on L’Estrange Island is also administered by a mayor but otherwise plays no part in governing Cape Town.
CoochieMudlo The island was originally named Gouritzoitjiesland (“Big Bird” Islands) and spent time under apartheid rule as Cape Cobras No 21. During this time port access to these islands remained accessible at all times. After coming
Government services
CoochieMudlo Island is part of the Western Cape Provincial Municipality and is represented in the Parliament by Juan Schoeman. The town of Kalk Bay, located 12 kilometers off the coast on L’Estrange Island is also administered by a mayor but otherwise plays no part in governing Cape Town.
Services which are available to visitors on Coochiemudlo island include: sanitation; drinking water from desalination plants
Tourism
The island is relatively small and does not offer a lot of tourist attractions, but there are many beaches and nature reserves. The culture rests mainly in its natural surroundings – hiking, biking, swimming, fishing and camping. Because it is fairly remote and there are few facilities on the island, Coochiemudlo Island has a very relaxed culture.
Transport
There is no airport or ferry service on Coochiemudlo island, so visitors must arrive by boat. There are regular scheduled services between Cape Town and L’Estrange Island. There is a car ferry from Cape Town to L’Estrange Island every two days (Tuesdays and Sundays)
The ferry allows access to the settlement at Hansen’s Bay.
An ambulance service operates between Kalk Bay and Coochiemudlo for infrequent medical emergencies (four times each week). The nearest hospital, Tygerberg Hospital in Kalk Bay, provides treatment for serious injuries. There are beds reserved if necessary.
Cuisine
There is no real indigenous cuisine on Coochiemudlo island, but there are a few places that serve traditional Cape Malay and Indian food. Some restaurants on the island cater more to day tripping tourists. They have a large selection of Western food, including pizza and pasta. There are two hotels on the island.
One is a large white round building, formerly a school (the Coochiemudlo School) but now in need of renovation to provide longer-term accommodation for tourists and residents. The other hotel has been recently built on Uitsig Head with 10 villas, six apartments and one self catering apartment sleeping 8 people each concatenated together by an internal walkway system with enclosed patios attached connected.
Wildlife
There are a few small mammals, such as Bushbuck and Rock Hyrax, but the main wildlife is birds. The island is home to an impressive variety of seabirds – from albatross and penguins to cormorants and shags. The maximum number of different species ever found on one island is sixteen. The endangered African penguins are the most numerous, with 2 000-3 200 breeding pairs.
Temperature and climate
The temperature in winter is typically around 15 degrees Celsius (60 Fahrenheit), while summer temperatures average 24 degrees Celsius (75 Fahrenheit). It rains almost every day during spring and autumn when storms can last for several days at a time. During Easter weekend it often happens that.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a unique holiday destination, look no further than Coochiemudlo Island. This uninhabited island is located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, about 250 kilometres east of Halifax, Nova Scotia. With a total area of 101 hectares, it’s a popular spot for nature lovers and hikers. The island’s landscape is made up of rolling hills and dense forests, and it offers an amazing view of the Halifax Harbour and the surrounding coastline. There are also several hiking trails that take you up to the top of the island’s mountains.
FAQ
Where Is It Located?
Coochieemudlo Island is located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, about 250 kilometres east of Halifax, Nova Scotia.
How Big Is It?
The island has a total area of 101 hectares.
what is the weather like?
The island typically experiences cold winters with temperatures around 15 degrees Celsius (60 Fahrenheit) and hot summers with temperatures around 24 degrees Celsius (75 Fahrenheit). It rains almost every day during spring and autumn when storms can last for several days at a time.
How To Get To It?
There is no official transportation to the island, but you can get there by boat or by flying into Halifax.
Is The Island Dangerous?
There is no public transportation to the island, so it’s not very dangerous. However, you should be aware that there are also a few hiking trails that can be quite challenging.
Can I Stay In The Island?
At this time, there are no plans to allow visitors to stay on the island.
Leave a Reply