The Cape Peninsula forms the southwestern tip of the African continent and has the city of Cape Town at its head. When Sir Francis Drake first landed here in 1578, he declared it the “fairest cape in the whole circumference of the globe”. His statement still holds true today, with Table Mountain throwing its protective shoulders around what has been described as a cultural melting pot, a community as diverse as the beautiful landscape.
The Cape Peninsula can be divided into two parts, with the Atlantic coast on the west and the False Bay coast on the east. While the ocean is rather cold on the Cape Town side, the water does tend to be warmer along the False Bay coastline. Needless to say, there are stretches of prime beachfront to take advantage of all along the peninsula.
The Atlantic Seaboard is renowned as being one of the most affluent areas that the Cape has to offer, with Camps Bay, Clifton and Bantry Bay home to luxury that sees no bounds. Sea Point and Green Point are more affordable in terms of housing and rentals, with a much more cosmopolitan feel. Llandudno is found just off the coastal road to Chapman’s Peak and offers quiet seclusion, while Hout Bay has declared itself a republic due to its perceived isolation from the rest of Cape Town’s suburbs.
False Bay offers some of the safest swimming and surfing conditions in the Cape and includes places like the arty Kalk Bay, sleepy Fishhoek (Fishoek) and historic Simonstown (Simon's Town). The proximity of houses to the coast gives the various towns and villages along the way a distinct rustic, seaside feel. Those who prefer relative seclusion will find Misty Cliffs, Scarborough, Kommetjie and Noordhoek more in line with the peace and quiet of seaside life. There really is something for everyone to be found throughout the Cape Peninsula.
The Cape Flats is situated north of Cape Town and is home to over a million people. The area is in stark contrast with the largely white suburbs of Cape Town and hosts a range of cultures.
The Cape Flats consists of the townships of Langa, Gugulethu, Khayelitsha, Cross Roads, Mitchell’s Plain and Maneberg and is also known as the birthplace of Cape Town’s soul, art and crafts, and music.
The Helderberg region lies in a valley between Hottentots-Holland and the Helderberg mountain ranges and hosts the town of Gordon’s Bay, Lwandle, Macassar, Sir Lowry’s Pass, Somerset West and Strand.
Some of the most dramatic scenery can be found in Helderberg, which consist of majestic mountains, vineyards and coastline. Here you will also find The Helderberg Wine Route – known as the largest private port producer. Wine farmers in the area take full advantage of the ideal soil and unique weather conditions to create world-class wines.
The tranquil area of Kuils River is located north of Cape Town and lies at the foot of the Bottelary Mountains. The area is also referred to as the as the gateway to South Africa’s famous wine routes and host one of the gems of the country’s wine industry – Zevenwacht Wine Estate.
The area is great for those who want to live close to the attractions of the Mother City, yet away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is also located with easy access to the N1, N2 and R300 without any of these highways running through the town
Kuils River also host two of South Africa’s major manufacturers – Coca Cola and Nampak – but one will still find original farms dating back to the 1600’s amidst these industrial ventures.
Ideally situated about 11 km from Cape Town’s city centre, Milnerton in Blaauwberg is known for its beautiful homes with spectacular views of Table Bay and Table Mountain. This area is a solely residential but also has an active commercial centre.
Here you’ll also find shimmering lagoons, golf courses and an array of water sport activities including skiing, surfing and fishing. Milnerton’s beaches are also known for being clean thanks to the local municipal staff patrolling the area on a regular basis.
Milnerton is the oldest suburb along northern Table Bay and hosts stunning properties as well as age-old trees.
Strand is located in the scenic Cape Helderberg and lies at the foot of the Hottentots-Holland Mountains. It is also situated close to the popular Gordon’s Bay and around 40 minutes’ drive from Cape Town.
Stand is mostly recognised by its Dubai-style apartment blocks on the Strand’s Beachfront that consist of 5 km of white beach. It is no surprise then that this bustling town is so popular amongst holiday goers.
The beaches in Strand are among the safest swimming beaches in the Western Cape and attacks water sport enthusiasts from all over. The promenade on the edge of the beach is lined with coffee shops, restaurants and cafés.
Property in Strand is ideally situated within easy access of the wine routes as well as the popular Somerset Mall in Somerset West. It is also a favourite whale watching spot during whale season.
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