Blouberg

Blouberg lies on the west coast of Table Bay and a relaxed 20-minute drive from Cape Town city centre. Bloubergstrand beach gives a wonderful view of the city, and it is from here that the perfect postcard pictures of Cape Town with Table Mountain in the background is often taken.

History

Although it is only a few centuries ago that European seafarers came to the Cape, the indigenous peoples of South Africa - the Khoisan and the Bushmen - had inhabited the coastal dunes since before the beginning of the Christian era. Their history is written in the sands of the west coast and great efforts are being made to preserve the archaeological sites in this area.

The coast of Blouberg plays an important role in South Africa's modern history. It was here on Blouberg Hill that the second British occupation of the Cape started, when General Sir David Baird and his British expedition forces won the battle against the Dutch East India forces under General Janssens. Ruins of this battle are visible to this day on the impressive mass of Blouberg Hill.

General Information

The rolling dunes of the Atlantic beach at Blouberg form part of the unique Cape floral kingdom, which is renowned worldwide for its diversity and richness of plant species. Unfortunately, a housing development has been planned on the dunes, upsetting many nature conservationists. Blouberg in general has developed and expanded tremendously over the past few years. The suburb of Parklands, just behind Blouberg, was sprang into existence within a three-year period - the fastest-growing area in sub-Saharan Africa! Further projects on the horizon for Blouberg include the building of a hotel, a water entertainment park, a golf course and a variety of other tourist attractions.

Attractions

The coast of Blouberg offers long, sandy beaches frequented by dog walkers and kite flyers. The large crashing waves, supported by the regular strong southeaster winds of the Western Cape, makes Blouberg one of the fastest and hottest places worldwide for windsurfing. Wave jumpers and colourful hobie cats can be seen dotted against the azure of the sea. Fishing, sailing and boating trips are other popular activities. Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, can be seen quite clearly from the beach at Blouberg.

Within a stone's throw of the beach, a whole host of restaurants offers excellent dining. Blouberg provides a great variety of modern shopping centres with all that your heart could desire, as well as all other amenities, including cinemas, which can be expected from one of the fastest growing areas in Cape Town.

Blouberg is a popular holiday destination, and the beaches are frequented by tourists and locals alike. The suburb is known for its natural beauty, youthful atmosphere, lovely and affordable accommodation and friendly people.