The V&A Waterfront in Cape Town offers lucky residents an enviable lifestyle, gorgeous views and a friendly community of residents.
About the area
The V&A Waterfront is a world-class marina development attracting millions of visitors a year for its excellent food, entertainment and shopping, not to mention the views of Table Mountain and the harbour. For those that call it home year round, all that is on their doorstep, plus they have the convenience of being so close to the Cape Town CBD – an easy 20-minute walk or a short ride in the frequent MyCiti buses. In fact, a car-free lifestyle is easily achievable for those who wish, while regular drivers have easy access to the N1 and N2 freeways, and of course boat owners can have their own moorings close by.
There’s so much happening within the Waterfront that residents hardly have to look elsewhere for entertainment. Free shows are regularly put on at the amphitheatre, there are monthly night markets at the Watershed (the place to shop for original local design), the Cape Town Comedy Club next door, the Galileo Open Air Cinema on the croquet lawn in summer, and much more. The Waterfront’s social media channels keep residents in touch with the latest events and offers, and there’s an endless choice of vibey places to eat, drink and hang out. To get away from the crowds in the busy summer season, there’s a 5km running track that weaves through the precinct into hidden undiscovered corners, you can go paddleboarding on the canals, or head to a nearby beach.
Part of Waterfront living that visitors often overlook, is being part of a working harbour. “I'm forever fascinated by the sounds (loud early morning hoots) and the sights (ships in the Robinson Dry Dock for repair) and the array of people who keep the harbour ticking over,” comments resident Nwabisa Mayema. Add to that the amazing views in both directions, the well-managed Waterfront security, and the small and friendly community of residents, and you get enviable urban living with a unique charm.
I love the convenience of it all. My backyard is 80 eateries, some of the best shopping in South Africa, and access to incredible local design fare at the Watershed. I’m excited about getting to know the rest of Cape Town by walking and using public transport. What a pleasure!
Nwabisa Mayema, resident
Best in food:
- Tashas for breakfast and tapas
- Mondiall Restaurant & Bar for lunch
- Dalliance for sharing plates and drinks
- Den Anker for seafood
- Meloncino for pizzas and Italian cuisine
- Nobu at the One&Only for fine dining Japanese cuisine
- Willoughby & Co for sushi
Things to do:
- The amphitheatre for free performances by a variety of artists
- Galileo Open Air Cinema in summer
- Discover South African design at the Watershed
- Stand-up paddleboarding on the waterways
- The OZCF Market at Granger Bay on Saturdays
Transport:
- MyCiti route 104 connects the Waterfront with Sea Point and the Civic Centre.
- MyCiti route T01 starts at the Waterfront going to the Civic Centre and Table View.
- Drivers have easy road access to the N1, N2 and central Cape Town.
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
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