Dine
out with good SA wine Take
the ferry to Robben Island Shop,
shop & shop some more Art
movies at Cinema Nouveau Visit
the Maritime Museum Go
sailing in Table Bay Listen
to jazz at Manenberg's Have
an ale at Ferryman's Visit
the Red and Blue Shed
Set in Cape Town's working harbour against the spectacular
backdrop of Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront complex has
become the city's most popular tourist destination. It offers a venue
where locals and foreigners alike can come to live, work, shop,
dine out and be entertained in a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Ongoing development of the precinct over the past decade has
turned it into an impressive urban playground comprising
an extensive shopping mall, office space, luxury apartments,
world-class hotels, cinemas, a marina and several outdoor entertainment
areas.
Shopping is a dream at the V&A Waterfront with over 400 stores,
open until 9pm in the evening, catering to every taste. You
will find top brand fashion, lifestyle stores, jewelry,
curios, specialty foods, electronic goods, African art and
outdoor
gear as well as a quality selection of unique gifts and souvenirs
at the two large, indoor markets.
Restaurants and eateries serve a sumptuous selection of seafood,
Cajun, French, Italian, Belgian and fusion fare along with
the best of local and international wines. Casual take-outs
are best enjoyed while soaking up the sun on the quayside or
watching live music at the amphitheatre.
The Waterfront's rich Victorian architectural heritage is represented
by its many beautifully restored
Cape buildings, including the Robben Island Embarkation Building,
the Breakwater Prison Lodge, Chavonnes Battery, the Clock
Tower and
the old Port Captains' building. Several other historic structures
can be seen while strolling around the area, including Ferryman's and the old Harbour Café.
Of nautical interest is the South African Maritime
Museum which
showcases the maritime history of Table Bay and houses the
largest collection
of model ships in South Africa. Those wanting to take to sea
can choose from a selection of boat tours including short
harbour trips, sunset cruises or traditional sailing
on the Spirit of Victoria. The Robben
Island ferry operates
daily but you need to book well in advance.
The V&A Waterfront has so much to offer and is truly a first-class
destination by international standards, which is why it attracts
over a million visitors a month. Take a trip there and see
for yourself!