Cape Town is not just celebrated for its majestic mountains and pristine beaches but also for the scenic drives that weave through its breathtaking landscapes. For those choosing to stay at Ocean View House in Camps Bay, the city’s most picturesque routes are just a stone’s throw away, offering easy and varied access to some of the most stunning vistas on the planet.

Chapman’s Peak Drive (Chappies): This 9-kilometer marvel, affectionately known as “Chappies,” is undoubtedly the crown jewel of Cape Town’s scenic drives. Winding its way along the western flank of the Cape Peninsula, it provides unparalleled views of the Atlantic Ocean against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs and azure skies. Constructed between 1915 and 1922, Chapman’s Peak Drive is an engineering masterpiece, featuring numerous viewpoints and picnic spots where the raw, untamed beauty of South Africa’s landscapes unfolds before your eyes.

Victoria Road: Traversing the coast from Camps Bay to Hout Bay, Victoria Road not only offers mesmerizing views of the Twelve Apostles and the ocean but also passes by the famous Camps Bay Beach, where the vibrant beachfront is lined with trendy cafes and bars.

This road is also a gateway to the secluded and serene Llandudno Beach, a hidden gem that’s perfect for a quiet afternoon away from the crowds. The drive encapsulates the essence of Cape Town’s luxurious seaside living, making it a favourite for those who enjoy both natural beauty and cosmopolitan flair.

Cape Point Route: The journey to Cape Point is an exploration of contrasts, from the quaint fishing villages of Kalk Bay and Simon’s Town to the wild, windswept landscapes of the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve.

Along this route, you have the opportunity to visit the Boulder’s Beach penguin colony, home to thousands of African penguins. This drive encapsulates the diversity of the Cape Peninsula’s landscapes and wildlife, offering travellers a taste of South Africa’s rich natural heritage and the chance to stand at the southwesternmost point of the African continent.

Constantia Wine Route: Beyond the scenic drive through the lush Constantia Valley, this route offers a historical journey into South Africa’s winemaking heritage, with Groot Constantia, the country’s oldest wine-producing estate, dating back to 1685.

The area’s unique terroir produces some of the world’s best wines, particularly renowned for its Sauvignon Blanc and Méthode Cap Classique. Each of the eight estates along this route not only offers exquisite wine-tasting experiences but also boasts spectacular gardens and architecture, making it a visual feast as much as a culinary one.

The estates currently include: Steenberg Vineyards, Buitenverwachting, Klein Constantia, Groot Constantia, Eagle’s Nest, Constantia Glen, Beau Constantia and Constantia Royale. Many of these can be found on our Ocean View House wine menu!

Signal Hill & Lion’s Head: The drive to Signal Hill is as spectacular at night as it is by day, offering unrivalled views of Cape Town illuminated after dark, with the twinkling lights of the city and the harbour below. For the more adventurous, the full moon hike up Lion’s Head provides a magical experience, where the city lights below compete with the stars above. This area is also a popular launch site for paragliders, offering a bird’s eye view of the city’s magnificent landscape for those daring enough to take the leap.

The advantages for tourists are clear

Cape Town’s scenic drives offer a low-cost, easily accessible way to explore the city’s natural beauty, providing a variety of experiences from the comfort of your car. Ocean View House, with its prime location in Camps Bay, serves as the ideal base for these excursions.

Not only do you get to enjoy the luxurious amenities and stunning views at the hotel, but you are also perfectly positioned to head out and discover the captivating scenery that makes Cape Town one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Whether you’re capturing the perfect photograph, enjoying a beachside picnic, or simply taking in the views, Cape Town’s scenic drives promise a wealth of experiences. And at the end of the day, Ocean View House awaits to offer comfort and luxury, rounding off the perfect adventure in this South African paradise.