Affectionately known as the Mother City, Cape Town lives up to its name by being the go-to location for locals and international tourists alike. This West Coast city boasts a cosmopolitan lifestyle that attracts those who value
working and living in a city with countless leisure activities and a high standard of living.
A brief history of the area
Cape Town is a historically significant city in South Africa's past. Jan Van Riebeeck arrived in 1652 and laid claim to this useful supply station and sailing port. However, he wasn't the first to do so. Bartholomeu Dias and Vasco De Gama both beat him to it by exploring the city in 1486 and 1497 respectively. The first European settlers began arriving along their travels between India, the Far East and Eastern Africa and established permanent residency along the Atlantic ocean. Long before the modernisation of Cape Town began, the Western Cape survived the Ice Age and early indigenous tribes developed bows and arrows for hunting. 6000 years later tribes of skilled indigenous people began to move inland and the agriculture of crops was born.
Distance from key points (Airport/CBD)
Travel time to Cape Town International Airport is approximately 16 minutes (17,7 km) via the N2 from the CBD. The CBD is called the City Bowl and is the financial centre of South Africa. It is approximately 18 minutes (19,5 km) away from the airport via the N2.
Climate
This beautiful city has a Mediterranean climate. Winters are rainy and wet ranging from 12°C to 19°C, while summers are dry with late evening sunsets and temperatures between 22°C and 28°C. It's perfect if you enjoy socialising while taking in the view from numerous vantage points across the city. Cape Town locals also enjoy hiking the famous mountain trails on Lion's Head and Table Mountain. The weather conditions in autumn, summer and spring are perfect for outdoor activities like running along the promenade or biking across Camps Bay. The Atlantic Ocean is known for being chilly at best, but that doesn't stop many from windsurfing and yachting.
Schools in the area
Cape Town is home to some of the best schools and universities in the country. There are a number of educational institutions for all age groups spread throughout the city. Multiple international schools are also available. Some notable primary schools are Bergvliet Primary School, Grove Primary School and Oakhurst Elementary School. Moving on to high schools, Constantia Waldorf School, Cedar House, Claremont High School, Westerford High School and more offer a great mix of public and private education offerings.
On a tertiary level, the University of Cape Town, Stellenbosch University and the University of the Western Cape hold historic value and still produce some of South Africa's top graduates in various professional fields.
Healthcare in the area
is one of the leading hospitals in the world and can be found in the heart of Cape Town. With top surgeons and doctors, this medical institution is dedicated to providing the best healthcare since 1938. The Netcare N1 City Hospital, Mediclinic Panorama and Netcare Christiaan Barnard Memorial Hospital are amongst the most popular healthcare providers in the city.
There are also a number of general practitioners and pharmacies located around the city for your convenience.
Shopping centres
Shopping is serious business in Cape Town and there are multiple high-end designer brands housed in the city's luxurious malls. Whether you're searching for international quality or homegrown talent, you can take your pick from niche boutiques and department stores.
The V&A Waterfront is the shopping destination of choice for those looking for everything under one roof. With stunning harbour views and a wide range of retailers and eateries, you can plan to spend the entire day browsing and eating your way through the mall.
Canal Walk Shopping Centre is Cape Town's largest mall and is situated in Century City. It's the perfect place to do your day-to-day shopping with the family or splurge on yourself at one of the many designer stores.
Restaurants
While Cape Town is famous for its world-class restaurants, the city's heritage is very much tied to the dishes prepared around local tables. There is a mixture of fine dining and cult-favourite takeaways around the city.
Snoekies in Hout Bay is one of the oldest fish and chip shops, having opened its doors in 1951. They are still serving some of the best takeaway parcels around and are open 7 days a week. Most patrons queue for their newspaper-wrapped meals and find a spot to enjoy it on the harbour or while taking a
scenic drive around Chapman's Peak and trying to spot the famous
Robben Island.
Bobo's is centrally located on Beach Road and is a
contemporary-styled restaurant with incredible ocean views and a menu that's suited for every taste. With quality food in a comfortable setting, Bobo's is one of those restaurants you'll keep going back to for more.
Special attractions
The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is a must-see. With thousands of visitors each year, it's the mesmerising views of the fauna and flora on the way up and the city skyline beneath the clouds when you get to the top that is worth the wait.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is one of the most acclaimed botanical gardens in the world. Book a guided tour to get the most out of this spectacular venue and enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants on site.
Make Cape Town your home. Let it be your story.
With all Cape Town has to offer, it's the ideal city to expand your horizons on any front. With exciting career opportunities in the business district and an infinite amount of leisure activities for you and your family, let Cape Town be your story. Seeff has a range of properties to suit any budget in some of the city's most sought-after areas.
Contact one of our expert agents to schedule a viewing today.