Bishopscourt, Constantia Valley

Set right against the slopes of Table Mountain in the Constantia Valley, Bishopscourt gives new meaning to the term ‘leafy’, which here describes incredibly large and gracious oaks that line most of the quiet streets with their large family residences, high walls and beautifully manicured gardens.

Bishopscourt has an absolutely exquisite setting. No surprise then that a number of foreign embassies have chosen this suburb as their home and a collection of local and international celebrities too. These are multi-million rand homes but the views alone are worth the price. Walks along the Liesbeek River, a popular local pastime, will take you past an area of land along its banks that the Bishopscourt Village Residents Association have rehabilitated and transformed into a remarkable riverine garden, re-establishing an important ecological system and including over 100 indigenous trees.

Staying in Bishopscourt brings one to the heart of the Constantia Valley. On a clear day there are panoramic views over False Bay, which is close by and offers some wonderfully quaint beaches such as St James and Danger beach, and some wonderful local hikes, including Constantia Nek - probably more of a sedate stroll than a hike. Bishopscourt is close to the Constantia Wine Route, Kirstenbosch Gardens and getting to the city centre is a matter of 15 minutes’ drive. Maynard Park, in Wynberg, has an open-air theatre that in summer offers anything from Shakespeare to opera and is a favourite for the theatre-and-picnic brigade.