Chapman’s Peak Drive
If you’re looking for one of Cape Town’s crown-jewels of road trips, look no further than
Chapman’s Peak Drive — a 9 km (approx.) stretch of awe-inspiring coastline between Hout
Bay and Noordhoek that truly lives up to its reputation as one of the world’s most
breathtaking marine drives.
A Drive Unlike Any Other
Winding its way along the western side of the Cape Peninsula, Chapman’s Peak Drive hugs
the dramatic face of the mountain and offers a sweeping, near-180° panorama of the Atlantic
Ocean on one side and soaring sandstone cliffs on the other.
With 114 curves packed into its length, every bend reveals a new vista — hidden bays,
rippling surf, and the distant silhouette of mountain ridges that roll towards the sea.
(Chapmans Peak Drive)
It’s a perfect route to roll down the windows, breathe in salty air, listen to the waves, and feel
the Cape’s wild beauty all around you.
Why It Stands Out
● Staggering views: From Hout Bay harbour at one end to the beach-fringed expanse
of Noordhoek at the other, this road places you between mountain and ocean in an
almost cinematic setting.
● A place for every pace: Whether you’re in the mood for an easy scenic drive,
stopping at lookout points, or you feel like stretching your legs with a hike, the route
delivers. Picnic areas, viewing bays, and trailheads dot the way.
● Engineering with heritage: Built between 1915 and 1922, the drive was once a bold
engineering feat—cut into steep rock faces, a road carved where few thought it
possible. (Chapmans Peak Drive)
● More than just a drive: On certain days you may even spot whales or dolphins from
one of the viewpoints, and after rainy weather you might glimpse little waterfalls
trickling down the cliffs. Locals attest to those moments of natural magic.
Picnic & Pause Spots
One of the joys of Chapman’s Peak is that it’s not just about moving from A to B — it’s about
stopping, soaking it in. There are numerous designated picnic spots and safe pull-offs where
you can park, walk a little, take in the scenery.
Imagine choosing a spot, pulling up beside the ocean, spreading a blanket, listening to
waves and wind, maybe watching the sun slip toward the horizon. A perfect summer
afternoon drive.
Tip: Arrive early or in the late afternoon to catch sunset lighting — the cliffs glow
golden and the ocean takes on a deep turquoise hue.
Stretch Your Legs: Hiking & Trails
If you’d rather not simply observe from your car, there are hiking options that reward you with
even more immersive views. Among them:
● Trails that branch off from the drive into the surrounding mountain terrain.
● For example, the local “Chapman’s Peak Trail” (or parts of it) gives an elevated
vantage point above the road itself, from where you can look down on the drive, the
ocean and beyond.
Just be sure to check conditions: although the road and trail are maintained, the
terrain can be steep and weather can change quickly
A Few Practical Notes
● Toll road: The drive is operated as a toll-road and a small fee helps fund
maintenance and rock-fall protection.
● Safety & closures: Because the cliffs and geology are dramatic, there have been
instances of rock-falls and temporary closures. The route may be closed during
heavy rain, wind or for maintenance.
● Driving pace: Although it’s scenic, it’s also winding. For maximum enjoyment (and
safety), slow down, allow time for stops, and stay aware of cyclists and hikers.
● Best time to go: Late afternoon towards sunset is magical, but mornings can be
quieter and ideal for a peaceful drive. Make sure you do it in daylight — some
signage notes that certain parts are not recommended at night.
A Few Extra Fun Facts
● The mountain above the road, Chapman’s Peak, rises to about 593 m and the road
skirts its steep flank. (Chapmans Peak Drive)
● The last extent of wild leopards in that area was memorialised with a sculpture near
Hout Bay. (South African History Online)
● The road not only serves sightseeing: it forms a key link between Cape Town’s city
centre and the south peninsula — though most visitors take it for the scenery rather
than commuting. (Chapmans Peak Drive)
Final Thoughts
In short: if you’re in Cape Town and craving a drive that feels like a reward in itself rather
than just a means of getting somewhere, make time for Chapman’s Peak Drive. Pull over,
breathe, look out across the ocean and up at the cliffs, enjoy the picnic spots, perhaps take a
short walk — let the wild beauty of the Cape Peninsula sink in.
Even if you only have an hour, choosing to roll slowly along this road rather than rush
through will give you memories and views worth keeping.
Would you like suggestions for the best lookout points along the drive, or maybe nearby
hikes to pair with it?
Book now: https://nobletours.co.za
Contact:
📱 +27 (0)76 885 3665
📧 info@nobletours.co.za
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