From the end of the nineteenth century till the 1960s, Muizenberg was South Africa’s premier seaside resort. Randlords built palatial mansions on the hillside and the seafront. Trains ran directly from Johannesburg without stopping in Cape Town. The town prospered and was architecturally very similar to many seaside towns on the south coast of England. At its height, there were about 50 hotels and guesthouses in the Muizenberg area.
From the 1970’s decline and urban decay set in. There were several reasons. The two most important were that; firstly, the hotel infrastructure was old and dated and secondly, the N3 motorway was built connecting Johannesburg and Durban in six hours. The lure of reaching your destination quickly to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean in modern accommodation proved too much for old Muizenberg. The nadir was the year 2000 when pimps, hookers and drug dealers ran riot through the streets (and those were the good days!)
The situation since then has been transformative. Slowly and one by one, problems buildings have been fixed, squatters evicted, slumlords have sold up, and fresh new investment has come in. Law-abiding and tax-paying citizens have reclaimed Muizenberg.
The town is now the surf kindergarten of South Africa. The beachfront is being populated by surf shops and schools and an increasing variety of upmarket restaurants and coffee shops. Incredibly, in this town, there are no vacant commercial buildings. The two large empty lots remaining on the beachfront will be developed during 2013, with more shops, eateries and residential accommodation becoming available. The charm of the “village” area has been augmented by responsible new owners renovating the beautiful rows of Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco houses.
Whereas the hotel stock is still limited, with only the upmarket boutique hotel Colona Castle available, an increasing number of guesthouses and backpacker lodges are opening. There is optimism and confidence in the air.
Uyaphi has been present in Muizenberg since 2008, and we are pleased to be associated with and be part of the upliftment of this charming seaside town.
We end the year on this good news story and wish you all, our customers and our suppliers, a very happy, healthy and prosperous 2013.
Muizenberg Beach Cape Town by Uyaphi.com
O On Kloof
Rates from R1 900.00 per person
O on Kloof Boutique Hotel & Spa is an exceptional gem nestled in the heart of Cape Town's vibrant Sea Point suburb. Offering an unparalleled blend of South African hospitality and luxurious comfort, this boutique hotel is perfectly positioned for guests to explore the city's top attractions with ease.
Every detail at O on Kloof has been meticulously crafted to provide an indulgent escape. From the heated pool that invites you to unwind to the rejuvenating spa treatments designed to soothe both body and mind, every moment here feels like a treat.
Cape Milner Hotel
Rates from R2 848.00 per person
Discover the 4-star Cape Milner Hotel, located in the heart of Cape Town. With 57 stylish rooms offering stunning views of Table Mountain or the city, this hotel is the perfect retreat. Whether for a romantic escape or a family adventure, every detail is designed to make your stay unforgettable.
The Cape Milner blends modern sophistication with warm hospitality. With a range of room options and an exceptional on-site restaurant, it caters to every traveller. From enjoying fine cuisine to relaxing in a well-appointed room, every moment is designed to delight.
Radisson Collection Hotel Waterfront
Rates from R4 565.00 per person
Radisson Collection Hotel Waterfront is a must-visit in Granger Bay, near the iconic V&A Waterfront. With stunning views of Robben Island and unforgettable sunsets, this luxurious hotel is perfect for travelers seeking comfort and beauty. Its 177 stylish rooms and suites are designed with sophistication and attention to detail.
For those seeking relaxation, the outdoor pool offers a serene spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the view. The luxurious on-site spa is perfect for unwinding and escaping daily stress. Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property makes it easy to stay connected, along with other thoughtful amenities.
Franschhoek Country House
Rates from R2 800.00 per person
Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Franschhoek Valley, this 5-star hotel offers an exceptional stay complemented by the renowned Monneaux Restaurant. Perfectly situated in the Cape Winelands, it features 14 exquisitely designed rooms and suites, each crafted with luxurious attention to detail.
Franschhoek Country House is, without a doubt, one of the finest options for anyone seeking a sophisticated getaway in Franschhoek. Whether you're indulging in world-class dining or simply soaking in the beauty of the valley, this accommodation promises a truly memorable experience.
Steenberg Hotel
Rates from R4 130.00 per person
Steenberg Hotel is a gem of luxurious hospitality nestled at the base of the breathtaking Constantiaberg Mountain. This five-star boutique hotel offers a spectacular blend of indulgence and refinement, combining world-class accommodations with a rich history dating back to 1682.
Guests are treated to an exceptional experience that includes award-winning fine wines, exquisite dining crafted with meticulous attention to detail, a championship golf course for enthusiasts, and a serene spa and wellness retreat that leaves visitors feeling utterly rejuvenated.
The Bay Hotel
Rates from R4 190.00 per person
The Bay Hotel is a stunning retreat with 78 beautifully designed rooms located right across from the iconic Camps Bay Beach. Each room is crafted for ultimate comfort, offering a luxurious yet welcoming stay.
Camps Bay Beach, with its white sands, top restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, is one of the most sought-after destinations for an unforgettable getaway. Whether you're enjoying the beach, savouring great food, or soaking up the lively atmosphere, The Bay Hotel is the ideal base for an exceptional vacation.
Schulphoek Guest House
Rates from R2 625.00 per person
Schulphoek Guest House in Hermanus is a boutique retreat perfectly placed to showcase the beauty of Schulphoek Bay. Guests can enjoy an idyllic escape with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Watching Southern Right Whales glide past your window is just one of the many highlights.
Hermanus, in the scenic Cape Overberg region, is full of attractions and culinary delights. With warm hospitality and a peaceful coastal setting, Schulphoek Guest House blends luxury and relaxation. Whether enjoying the bay's serenity or exploring the lively town, this boutique gem promises an unforgettable stay.
Winchester Mansions
Rates from R2 930.00 per person
Experience luxury at Winchester Mansions Hotel, a gem in Seapoint's Platinum Mile. This elegant four-star retreat boasts stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Robben Island. Perfect for business or leisure, the Winchester offers modern amenities, exceptional dining, and a prime location.
Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or exploring Cape Town, the Winchester Mansions offers a stay that's both indulgent and welcoming. With its charm and commitment to quality, this hotel promises a memorable home away from home.