About Chapmans Peak Blockhouse
If you've booked Hout Bay accommodation or are staying in Cape Town, you're in for a treat as you get to explore the Mother City and her intricate heritage. It has a fascinating history and, even today, so many remnants of this history can be found scattered throughout the city itself, as well as in its surrounds. The block house on the scenic Chapman's Peak is just one of these little gems, and is well worth a look as you wind your way along this pretty path.
The Chapmans Peak Block House dates back to the time when the earliest Dutch settlers indentified Hout Bay as a great spot to anchor when the windy Table Bay became too dangerous. But, because it was such an ideal place to stop, they realised that it was also an ideal weak point for invading military forces to approach. So, the need to build fortifications in the area became evident and, towards the end of the 1700's, a number of these were constructed in the area. These were scattered through the countryside – starting from the foot of Hangklip and then moving to the area just below Chapman's Peak.
The block house is just one of these fortifications and was built by the British in 1796 on the eastern side of Hout Bay. Sadly, it was not maintained and, by 1827, the block house and its neighbouring fortifications were abandoned.
Although it stands in ruins today, it remains a powerful testament to the struggle and resilience that underscored the South Africa of yesteryear.
Chapman's Peak promises absolutely breath-taking views of the mountains, little towns, and vast ocean of the Western Cape. It is only about 40 minutes' drive from the V & A Waterfront and the Two Oceans Aquarium, and 10 minutes from the little harbour town of Hout Bay.
Need to Know
WhereChapmans Peak Blockhouse, Chapmans Peak, Atlantic Seaboard, Cape Town, South Africa
WhenBest during daylight hours.
OvernightStay in Chapmans Peak Accommodation, Cape Town
Disclaimer
Please note, business details can change. While we endeavour to ensure all information provided by the service provider is correct at the time of publication, we do not assume any liability caused by errors or changes, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please check with the provider that the activity/business is still offered as described, before making any travel plans.
Feedback?
If this is your attraction, you can let us know if anything on this page is outdated or contains inaccuracies, by email. We regret, we do not have any other information, please contact the provider if you have questions.
Additional Reading
You might also be interested inAttractions near Chapmans Peak
In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options in Chapmans Peak
Villa Serafina
Set high above a 2000-year-old forest of ancient milkwood trees on the slopes of Chapman's Peak, Villa Sefarina is a 7-bedroom, thatched hideaway...
Haus at Chappies
Haus at Chappies is a charming, eclectically decorated holiday home in Chapmans Peak, an exclusive suburb near Noordhoek in Cape Town. Haus at Ch...
Chapmans Peak Hotel
Let the sound of the waves lapping against the shoreline be your first waking sound. Nestled at the foot of the picturesque Chapmans Peak Drive o...
Tintswalo Atlantic
The Tintswalo Atlantic Luxury Boutique Hotel is located on the ocean in Hout Bay near Cape Town. This exclusive getaway nestles on the Chapman's ...
Noordhoek Bliss Beach House
Noordhoek Bliss Beach House is an inviting ocean-front holiday home located in the picturesque area of Noordhoek. Ideal for a beachside getaway, ...
Things to do in the area
Chapmans Restaurant
The Chapmans Peak Restaurant was established over 25 years ago. It has become the grand old lady of outdoor seafood restaurants in Cape Town, wit...
Drive Chapmans Peak
Chapman's Peak Drive is listed in the locations 'black book' of every photographer, film maker and dreamer worldwide. It is no doubt on the wish-...
Look-Out Cave on Chapman's Peak Drive
You really can't prepare yourself for the views from Look-Out Cave, which is one scenic drive from many of the Cape Town accommodation hotspots. ...
Accommodation convenient to Chapmans Peak Blockhouse
FIND / South Africa Accommodation / Western Cape Accommodation / Cape Town Accommodation / Atlantic Seaboard Accommodation / Chapmans Peak Accommodation
