Back to South Africa

[Pierre-Noel Rietsch]

Colleagues,

I may get back to South Africa in April / May (for the business again...), but this time not in Jo'Burg but in Capetown.

What is to do in Capetown for a railfan? In particular, are there steam trains (I heard something about one going to Simon's Town, and also about Rovos?), good photography spots in the area, and model railway shops?

An other idea I have: Not too far of Capetown is Saldanha Bay, terminus of the Sishen - Saldanha ore line. Are there good photographic spots for this line? How much traffic can I expect?

Much thanks!

[Steve Appleton]

Pierre, Atlantic Rail runs public steam train trips on weekends about once per month from Cape Town station to Simon's Town. Go to: http://www.atlanticrail.co.za to see their schedule. About half the trip is a very scenic route along the False Bay coastline, with the track almost at the sea's edge.
Rovos Rail is not steam hauled to or from Cape Town. Steam locos are used by Rovos only in the immediate Pretoria area. Go to: http://www.rovos.com for their schedules.
There is a diesel-powered replica old tram that rus a short distance through the vineyards at Franschoek. Go to: http://http://winetram.co.za/
I am sure other Capetonians can answer your other questions. Enjoy your visit.

[John Ashworth]

We had a recent post on the OREX line - see http://www.friendsoftherail.com/phpBB2/ ... 08&t=10651