A former fishing village, Hout Bay is now a popular seaside suburb. Translated from Afrikaans as “Wood Bay”, it was named by Jan Van Riebeeck in the 17th century, who deemed its forest the finest in the world! A mere 40-minute drive from the centre of Cape Town, Hout Bay’s village-like atmosphere and close-knit community offers a quality of life attractive to both locals and investors, and the Hout Bay International School is especially popular with residents moving from overseas. With panoramic ocean and mountain views extending over the small, busy fishing harbour, this really is one of the most beautiful areas of the peninsula, and it has a vibrant array of amenities as well. Hout Bay today is divided into several neighbourhoods, including Scott Estate, Baviaanskloof, Hillcrest and Bergandal. Its sheltered bay has a sandy beach, and the afore-mentioned harbour, as well as being one of the most active fishing ports in the Cape, is home to the Hout Bay Yacht Club, a lively harbour market and several restaurants.
Hout Bay can be accessed via three routes: one winds from Camps Bay, past Llandudno and through the Suikerbossie pass, whilst the second leads from Constantia and up over the Constantia Nek. The third is the iconic Chapman’s Peak Drive, reopened in 2004 as a toll road and offering a truly breath-taking vista. The Chapman’s Peak Hotel was a prime example of an Edwardian seaside hotel, up until 1981 when it was renovated; it sits at the foot of the Drive and remains one of the best spots for a seafood feast with a sparkling view.
What else?
-The World of Birds: This is a reptilian and wildlife sanctuary and the largest African bird park on the continent. http://www.worldofbirds.org.za/
-The Hout Bay Harbour Market, open Friday evening and during the day at the weekend, is fabulous. As well as a host of vendors offering delicious food and drink, there are a number of local handmade craft stalls and regular live music on offer. Also on the harbour is Mariner’s Wharf, a must for fish and chips. www.bayharbour.co.za http://www.marinerswharf.co.za/
-Hout Bay Beach is an expansive stretch of white sand, with the harbour at one end and Chapman’s Peak Hotel at the other. A guided kayak tour offers a splendid view of the shoreline and the chance to learn about Hout Bay’s history and heritage, possibly coming up close to some marine life as well. booking@capetownkayaks.co.za.
And with your invigorated sea air appetite, the Dunes Restaurant, right on the beach, is the place to go.
https://www.dunesrestaurant.co.za/
-And away from the ocean…
Indulge in an eclectic range of hedonistic pastimes including retail therapy, looking at art and custom motorbikes, getting a haircut, listening to music and enjoying delicious food, wine and beer, all in one beautiful 17th century Cape Dutch building. Deus Ex Machina, a global brand, hails from Australia and celebrates bikes and surfing; its Cape Town iteration, the Homestead of Perpetuity, opened in Hout Bay a few years ago.
http://www.deuscustoms.co.za/
Cheynes - relaxing Asian fusion restaurant. Currently offering a fantastic Winter special.
066 412 3289
Mexicola Locale - Delicious modern Mexican food, prepared on the grill. Tequila and mezcal cocktails, and colourful Mexican art.
http://www.mexicolalocale.co.za/
Darios – authentic Italian vibe for coffee, food and family fun. Open for brekkie and lunch.
http://darioscafe.com/
