Hout Bay

The name Hout Bay means 'Wood Bay' and is named after the dense forests in the area at the time it was settled in the 17th century. Hout Bay is a vibrant coastal town with a beautiful beach and picturesque harbour lying in a protected bay on the Atlantic coast between Chapman's Peak and Mount Sentinel approximately 10 miles south of Cape Town. Hout Bay is well known as a fishing centre and is the epicentre of Cape Town's crayfish industry. Hout Bay is ideally suited to explore the delights of the Western Cape, being within easy reach of Table Mountain, the Cape of Good Hope and the Winelands and a short drive to the airport. Hout Bay is home to World of Birds which has more than 3000 birds in dozens of aviaries. There are also a number of small animals that call the place home - make sure you visit the walk-in monkey jungle, for example. For great views of the bay enjoy a cruise to Seal Island which contains a large seal colony. Fish connoisseurs will love the freshest seafood you can buy at the Mariner's Wharf waterfront. There are a few restaurants overlooking the harbour that offer up excellent fish dishes and there is always an abundance of prawns and calamari on the menu. If you're a keen walker the beaches around Hout Bay are wonderful for long walks, and The Sentinel is a popular climb. Adventure lovers might also enjoy kayaking, mountain biking, fishing charters and jet-skiing, all available in Hout Bay. Hout Bay is famed for whale watching in the Spring (August - November).

For more information about Hout Bay visit The Official Hout Bay Website. (To return to this site click your browser's back arrow.)

The Western Cape

The Western Cape of South Africa is particularly attractive to British visitors. The time difference is only two hours in the British winter and one hour in the summer. Thus, unlike other long distance destinations, there is no jet lag. Since the British and South African seasons are reversed, British visitors can flee the dull cold days and long winter nights in the UK by spending time in the delightful South African summer, boosted by the extremely favourable exchange rate.

For more information about South Africa visit The South African Tourism Website. (To return to this site click your browser's back arrow.)