With the vibrant energy of Sea Point on the one side and the secluded beach lifestyle of Clifton on the other, Bantry Bay has the best of both worlds.
About the area
The trendy cafes and shops of Regent Road are within strolling distance, as are the promenade and the salt-water swimming pools of the Pavilion, and in the other direction residents can walk along to Clifton’s beautiful beaches without having to worry about parking.
The upper slopes of the suburb are home to luxurious private villas and mansions, one of which recently made the record books selling for R290m. Lower down there are apartment buildings and more modest family homes. One reason that Bantry Bay is so sought after by locals and international buyers alike is that it is sheltered from the prevalent southeaster. Residents can therefore sit outside and enjoy relaxed summer afternoons and sundowners with exceptional ocean views while the rest of Cape Town is being driven crazy by the wind. Easy access to the city is another attraction for those who work in the CBD, as it’s just a 15-minute drive away, and the MyCiTi bus runs through to town, too.
Apart from a few hotels, Bantry Bay has little in the way of its own eateries, but that isn’t a problem as the area is close to Sea Point. “It’s just a short walk to Sea Point Main Road with all the new speciality restaurants such as My Sugar, Scheckter’s Raw and Sundoo, as well as convenient supermarkets,” says resident Jenny Sandler. Saunders Rock Beach is the closest sheltered beach for sundowners, and dog-walkers and runners have the whole length of the promenade, as well as the steps linking the lower and upper roads of Bantry Bay, to stretch their legs, with Lion’s Head behind for more exercise and exploration.
“I love the fabulous climate, wind-free and warm! Because of the close proximity of the houses, it has an intimate village atmosphere. There are quaint cottages sprinkled among the beautiful villas, so it's very interesting architecturally and the views are spectacular.” Carol Wienburg, resident
Best in food:
- Scheckters Raw: for healthy eating
- Three Wise Monkeys: for ramen and poké bowls
- Jarryds: for cool breakfasts and cafe lunches
- The Bungalow: for chic sundowners with a view
- Mischu: for the best coffee
Things to do:
- Play beach sports and sunbathe at Clifton beaches.
- Walk, run and walk your dog along the Sea Point promenade.
- Enjoy sundowners on Saunders Rock Beach.
- Walk up Lion’s Head.
- Swim at Sea Point Pavilion salt-water pools.
Top schools:
- Herzlia Weizmann Primary
- Camps Bay Preparatory School
- Camps Bay High School
- Sea Point High School
- Reddam House Atlantic Seaboard
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
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