Observatory, Southern Suburbs

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Observatory, Southern Suburbs

Observatory
Observatory, Cape Town

Observatory, fondly known as ‘Obz’, has a distinctly bohemian flavour and those who identify with the young, trendy and artistic buy quaint, semi-detached and larger renditions of Victorian terraced homes here.

Some of these are a little run-down, particularly as you head back towards Cape Town, but most have been or are in the process of being restored to their former glory, as Obz is regarded as good value for money and is sought after by locals. Distinctly in its favour is its accessibility to the city centre. Observatory is on the east end of city and getting around is uncomplicated. The airport is easily accessible, as is the N2 and M3, and people here feel connected to Cape Town’s pulse.

Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, Cape Town
The night life heaves, particularly over a weekend, and local bars and restaurants offer live music, poetry reading and good food. Other quirky little shops line the main road through Obz, and include book shops, costume hire, second-hand books, CDs and local businesses, with an emphasis on ‘artsy’.

As one would expect, with a name like ‘Observatory’, the South African Astronomical Observatory has its headquarters here, although, understandably due to light pollution, their main telescopes now lie near Sutherland in the Northern Cape, four hours’ drive from here. This is also the home of Groote Schuur Hospital, visible against the backdrop of Devil’s Peak, and, not only the site of the first heart transplant, but also one of the main teaching hospitals in South Africa.

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Featured Attractions in (or near) Observatory

Groote Schuur Hospital

Groote Schuur Hospital, visible against the backdrop of Devil’s Peak, and, not only the site of the first heart transplant, but also one of the main teaching hospitals in South Africa. Groote Schuur Hospital, or GSH, is a Central Hospital which forms part of the Western Cape Provincial Department of Health.

The River Club Golf Course

The River Club 9-hole Mashie course is a 9-hole, par 27, and is a great way to get some short game practice. With spectacular views of Table Mountain and the Liesbeek River, this course provides an intriguing challenge both for the seasoned golfer as well as the beginner. Whether you’re looking to loosen up, tune up or perfect ... more information

University of Cape Town

The University of Cape Town (UCT) is South Africa's oldest university. UCT has more than 60 specialist research units that provide supervision for postgraduate work and is home to more than a quarter of South Africa's A-rated researchers - academics who are considered world leaders in their fields.

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Things To Do in Observatory

Indoor Climbing

Where: Observatory, Cape Town
How much (per person): On Request

CityRock is Cape Town's centre for all things related to the sport of Rock Climbing. The facility at CityRock features a large top rope and ... more information

Heart of Cape Town Museum

Where: Observatory, Cape Town
How much (per person): R101 to R200

The steady beat of your own heart will escort you to the Heart of Cape Town Museum where the worlds first ever human heart transplant was pe ... more information

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Events and/or Festivals in Observatory

event starts: 05 December 2009
December

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On Holiday in Observatory

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Observatory - A Visitors Perspective

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