To understand the geography of the Cape Peninsula a little better, we have divided the Cape Peninsula into 7 regions. Following are some of the features of each region which will give the visitor an understanding of that specific area that will contribute to a well planned and enjoyable stay in Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula. Important to note, wherever you stay, it will never be more than about 45 minutes drive from the furthest tourist attractions.

 ( See an interactive map showing each of the 7 regions of the peninsula. )

1. The City Bowl

The City Bowl consists of the business centre of Cape Town. If you don't have transport, it is also wise to stay here, as most of the tours start here. To see and experience - Table Mountain, V & A Waterfront, history and culture of Cape Town, shopping, great nightlife with top clubs and bars. Maybe more for the historical, cultural and younger tourist.

2. Atlantic Seaboard

Definately the place during summer, with all the hot bods on the beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay and at night, humming bars and clubs. Some of the finest restaurants can be found along this area. The sunsets over the Atlantic ocean will live with you for a long time after your visit.

3. Southern Suburbs

What is locally known as the Southern Suburbs, lie within 5 minutes drive from the City Bowl. More of a residential area, but very central to all the tourist attractions and amenities. If you plan to cover the complete Cape Peninsula, this could be your option.

4. Hout Bay

A few kilometers further south on the Atlantic seaboard is the village of Hout Bay, a tourist destination on it's own, with boat and fishing trips, a beautiful beach with snowy white sand and world class restaurants, especially seafood. South Africa's first harbour front emporium is situated in the harbour of Hout Bay, with its fresh fish market selling live lobsters, restaurants specializing in seafood, antiques and gift shops. Visit the spectacular and biggest bird park in Africa, the World of Birds. Did I mention that the world's best calamari for the past 30 years can be enjoyed in a restaurant in Hout Bay?

5. Southern Peninsula

A world in one for single tourists, families, young and old. Try this: Art routes, Baboon watching, Bird watching, Beach walks, Cycling, Diving and snorkling, Fishing, Golf, Hiking, Horse riding, Kayaking, Kite surfing, Penguin watching, Sailing, Surfing, Whale watching or just enjoy an unbelievable sunset from a mountain or beach. For more information please visit http://www.capepointroute.co.za/.

6. Helderberg Basin

From the sandy beaches of the eastern side of False Bay to the towering Hottentot Hollands Mountain Range and everything in between. The Helderberg basin consist of the 3 villages called Gordon's Bay, Somerset West and The Strand. Fishing, hiking, shopping, golf and many more. Maybe of greater interest, immediately adjacent to the village of Somerset West lies the Helderberg Wine Route, consisting of more than 20 wine estates, and due to the combination of mountain and maritime climates, produce wines with a distict and unique character. For more information please visit http://www.gordonsbayinfo.co.za/.

7. The Northern Region

The area north of the city is also known as 'The Blaauwberg' (Blue mountain) area, which caters for a variety of activities, especially the long, white, sandy beaches that stretch for miles. Long walks, surfing, kite and wind surfing are some of the activities along the coast line. Some of the Cape Peninsula's top restaurants feature in this region. Within 10 minutesdrive and you find yourself within the Durbanville wine route, another of the Western Cape's fine wine producing areas. Probably the most significant feature of this region is that it enjoys the most perfect and beautiful view of the majestic Table Mountain.