
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
River Manor
Rates from R1 700.00 per person
River Manor rests peacefully beneath the shade of Stellenbosch's ancient oaks, just a short two-minute stroll from the vibrant town centre. Each room has been thoughtfully and stylishly furnished with antiques, perfectly capturing the essence of "Colonial charm with a touch of Africa."
This guesthouse strikes the perfect balance between classic elegance and modern luxury, offering an upscale retreat within walking distance of Stellenbosch's renowned attractions. River Manor promises an exceptional stay that blends sophistication with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Camps Bay Village
Rates from R2 100.00 per night
At Camps Bay Village, you'll discover a stunning collection of luxurious crash pads, charming seaside studios, inviting garden studios, and deluxe holiday villas. Perfectly suited for a romantic escape or an adventure-packed family getaway, this accommodation truly stands out.
These exceptional villas not only offer incredible value but also provide an unmatched combination of comfort, style, and location. Whether you're soaking up the sun or exploring the city, Camps Bay Village ensures an unforgettable stay.
The Dock House
Rates from R5 910.00 per person
The Dock House is one of Cape Town's most exclusive boutique hotels, overlooking the iconic V&A Waterfront. With just six beautifully designed rooms and manicured lawns, it offers a peaceful escape. Guests can enjoy a private bar and a serene pool, ensuring every luxury is within reach.
What sets The Dock House apart is its blend of exclusivity and comfort, offering a peaceful retreat just steps from the vibrant Waterfront. With impeccable service and attention to detail, this boutique hotel delivers unmatched relaxation and luxury. For a serene yet indulgent stay in Cape Town, The Dock House is a must.
Commodore Hotel
Rates from R1 650.00 per person
Located in a prime spot, the Commodore Hotel offers 236 superior rooms and suites with upscale amenities. Each room includes air conditioning, tea and coffee facilities, and a luxurious bathroom with a separate bathtub and shower, ensuring comfort and convenience.
The Commodore Hotel is a perfect blend of sophistication and comfort, ideal for both leisure and business travellers. With chic bars, elegant restaurants, and productive meeting spaces, it offers something for everyone. For impeccable style and exceptional service, the Commodore consistently exceeds expectations.
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.
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.
Mosaic Farm Lagoon Lodge
Rates from R4 370.00 per person
Discover the Mosaic Farm Lagoon Lodge for a unique South African getaway. Enjoy luxury safari lodging on the Hermanus Lagoon, with stunning views of the Overberg Mountains and Walker Bay Beach. Just a 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.
Villas at Franschhoek Country House
Rates from R5 200.00 per person
Villas at Franschhoek Country House offer what is, without a doubt, some of the finest stays in the region. Spectacularly spacious at 100sqm each, the suites feature a separate lounge, an elegant bedroom, and a luxurious bathroom, all designed with exceptional attention to detail.
Adding to their charm, every suite boasts not one but two private balconies, perfect for soaking in the serene views. The combination of thoughtful design and luxurious amenities ensures an unforgettable stay in this breathtaking setting.