This leafy, green area in the Southern Suburbs is hugely popular with families who love the outdoor lifestyle.
Lush and leafy with pockets of protected green belt running through it and prolific birdlife, Constantia feels closely connected to the countryside and farmland that once spread over the whole valley. With several prestigious wine estates still occupying the higher slopes, the overall impression is of green, open spaces, and the large tree-filled plots of this affluent suburb continue the country feel. The only downside for residents who work or go to school in the centre of town is the commute on the M3 which can get congested at peak times, but most feel it is worth it to come home to a tranquil neighbourhood where they can go horse riding, walking or mountain biking along the beautiful green belt trails.
Community efforts are keeping the area safe. “Crime has dropped significantly over the last three years,” says resident Joseph Allen, “with the Constantia Watch coordinating security companies and building close relationships with adjacent neighbourhood watches and with the police.” It’s an idyllic place to bring up a family if an outdoor lifestyle appeals. Kids can get out into nature every day whether it’s The Bike Park at Constantia Uitsig, horse riding at one of the local stables, mountain hiking, or beach fun a short drive away at Muizenberg or Hout Bay. Constantia Waldorf School is one of the few prestigious schools within the suburb (its night markets are a popular community event in summer), but there is plenty more choice nearby including Reddam House Constantia, Herzlia Constantia, Springfield Convent School, Herschel Girls’ School and Bishops Diocesan College.
There’s no shortage of luxury to indulge in, from leisurely lunches in fine dining restaurants and wine tastings with stunning views, to pampering at one of the top hotel spas such as The Cellars-Hohenort or Steenberg hotels, and of course excellent golf at Steenberg or Westlake golf clubs. On a more down-to-earth note, Constantia Village shopping centre has all you need including supermarkets, upmarket boutiques and delis.
“Constantia feels like being in the country. There’s no street lighting and the large plot sizes make for low density, so that roads aren’t at all busy. With all the trees and so little traffic you can enjoy walking and cycling along the roads as well as the green belt trails.” Louise Joseph, resident.
Best in food:
- La Colombe for fine dining with stunning views
- The Greenhouse for top modern cuisine and elegance
- Carne Constantia for great steaks and Italian cuisine
- Bistro Sixteen82 for tapas
- Chardonnay Deli for breakfasts and casual lunch
Things to do:
- Horse riding on the green belt trails
- Mountain biking along the green belt and up onto the mountain
- The Bike Park at Constantia Uitsig
- Spa treatments at The Cellars Hohenort or Steenberg hotels
- Golf at Steenberg or Westlake golf clubs
Wine estates to visit:
- Constantia Glen
- Buitenverwachting
- Eagles’ Nest
- Constantia Uitsig
- Groot Constantia
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
Take a green, leafy journey through the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town here:
