Parklands, Blaauwberg

There is an ongoing debate in Cape Town about just where it is best to live. The southern suburbs consider their lot above reproach, whilst those out in Blaauwberg with the much sought after views of Table Mountain and Robben Island believe it is the only place to be in Cape Town, facing the sea.

Parklands is one of the suburbs that forms part of the popular area of Blaauwberg, often spelt Blouberg, and considered a town in its own right at the start of the West Coast. It lies alongside Sunningdale, Table View and West Beach north of the Rietvlei Nature area. In fairness, it is not right on the beach and has Blouberg Rise and Bloubergrant to contend with before one reaches the sea, nonetheless, it still has the view and is part of a group of suburbs that are one of the country's fastest growing areas on the coast, just 15 minutes from Cape Town and on the much sought after Atlantic coastline.

Parklands is modern. Most of the homes here are townhouse, flats, apartments, cluster homes or large villa type houses. People live here for the sea and the sandy, white stretches of beach are perfect for kite surfing, sun worshipping, long walks and swimming, particularly Big Bay and Sunset Beach. There are also a series of vibrant beachside restaurants, cafés and clubs. It's no wonder people choose to holiday here, right on the edge of Cape Town with easy access to the sea and the West Coast.

And you are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing how to spend your leisure time. The Rietvlei Nature Area is a wonderful area in which to walk along several lakeside trails, bird watching is excellent here and waterskiing and windsurfing are popular. There is the monthly Schoolyard Market at Elkanah House - a great source of organically grown produce and more. Or simply take the R27 and head up the coast.