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
Welgelegen House
Rates from R2 475.00 per person
Indulge in the peace and luxury of Welgelegen House, situated conveniently near the hustle and bustle of Cape Town's city bowl.
This striking hotel comprises two Victorian houses and seven lavish suites, linked together by a magnificent cobbled courtyard with an inviting plunge pool encircled by vibrant balconies adorned with iceberg roses and star jasmine.
At the Welgelegen House, you will discover a tranquil abode to just chill and appreciate the breathtaking sites, sounds and attractions of Cape Town.
The Dock House
Rates from R4 500.00 per person
The Dock House is a luxurious boutique hotel overlooking the famed V&A Waterfront area in Cape Town.
The hotel offers a unique and exclusive experience, with only six luxurious rooms surrounded by manicured lawns and a private bar and pool.
The perfect choice for those seeking to escape from crowds, The Dock House Hotel provides guests with unparalleled comfort and relaxation while enjoying all this vibrant location has to offer.
One&Only Cape Town
Rates from R4 975.00 per person
The One&Only Cape Town is a luxurious five-star hotel located in the heart of South Africa's vibrant Mother City V&A Waterfront.
Each room and suite has been designed with comfort and convenience, featuring air conditioning, spacious bathrooms with rain showers and marble vanities, and dark African woods for added luxury.
Guests can also enjoy access to exclusive amenities, including 24-hour concierge services, onsite spa treatments and in-house dining options at some of the city's most popular restaurants.
Three Boutique Hotel
Rates from R1 530.00 per person
If you are seeking a luxurious 4-star experience in the beautiful city of Cape Town, look no further than The Three Boutique Hotel! Stylish accommodations, unparalleled service and all of this conveniently located just moments away from the lively downtown district.
Step into The Three and experience the city in style! Chic, modernly-furnished guestrooms provide an affordable yet luxurious getaway for those wanting to explore all that this dynamic metropolis has to offer.
Owner-run and managed, The Three promises a truly unique experience with its perfect harmony of every aspect of your stay.
Mosaic Farm Lagoon Lodge
Rates from R4 370.00 per person
Explore the stunning Mosaic Farm Lagoon Lodge for an unparalleled South African experience. Enjoy lavish safari lodging in a one-of-a-kind setting!
Located on the Hermanus Lagoon with views of the Overberg Mountains and adjacent to Walker Bay Beach, Mosaic Farm is within an easy 30-minute drive from Hermanus.
Relax in peaceful surroundings with a stunning lagoon setting, and enjoy exquisite cuisine that features traditional recipes from local ingredients paired with an exceptional Overberg wine selection.
Quarters Hermanus
Rates from R1 700.00 per person
Experience magnificent luxury in the heart of Hermanus when you stay at Harbour Square Rooms & Residences. The apartments are within easy walking distance of the spectacular Atlantic Ocean, from where in season, one can view some of the best whale watching in the world.
These luxurious apartments boast an expansive living area with a dining space (with a fully equipped kitchen) that opens onto a balcony.
Indulge in contemporary style and convenience with air conditioning, heating, and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Make yourself at home while enjoying all of the amenities that our space has to offer!
Schulphoek Guest House
Rates from R1 800.00 per person
Schulphoek Guest House in Hermanus is a stunning boutique retreat overlooking the beautiful Schulphoek Bay.
The boutique guest house offers guests an idyllic getaway with excellent views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Spot majestic Southern Right Whales from your room, or walk down to the rocks for a better view!
Enjoy one of the many attractions and restaurants in and around the small coastal town of Hermanus in the Cape Overberg region.
Birkenhead House
Rates from R6 900.00 per person
Birkenhead House is a luxurious five-star boutique hotel in the picturesque town of Hermanus, South Africa.
Be awestruck by the magnificent sight of Walker Bay, the Southern Atlantic Ocean and its neighbouring mountains and fynbos.
From indulgent spa treatments to exquisite dining experiences, guests can choose from their selection of comfortable rooms, suites and villas or opt for one of the exclusive private residences which feature personal butler service and private plunge pools.
One of the most scenic swimming pool areas in South Africa.