Gardens earned its name as the company gardens was established in 1652 after Jan van Riebeeck’s government was proffered in the area. The suburb of Gardens exists today on the slopes of the mountain, overlooking the Parliament buildings. With a variety of accommodation on offer, this City Bowl suburb is excellent for tourists and business people looking for close proximity to everything from conference venues to nightclubs.
Who goes there?
Gardens is frequented by students who attend the University of Cape Town and neighbouring universities and technikons, tourists who want to be close to the action of the city’s nightlife, and business people who are seeking a bit of peace and quiet as opposed to the commotion of the city centre.
When to visit Gardens?
Gardens is located on the slopes of Table Mountain and benefits most from the sunny climes of summer (November to April). Although winter can be blustery and wet, the area is still a stunning suburb to stay warm and cosy in. Temperatures in summer (arguably the best time of year to frequent this area) reach between 25°C and 35°C, perfect for a day on the beach.
Close By Attractions
* Greenmarket Square: Here you can find a plethora of African trinkets and art deco ornaments. Sit and watch the public pass by from one of the many street cafes as you sip your cocktail.
* V&A Waterfront: This is a popular tourist and locals destination, filled with over 400 restaurants and shops. Bordered by some of the most sought-after Cape Town accommodation, the Waterfront offers endless things to do in Cape Town from the Robben Island ferry to the Two Oceans aquarium.
Things to do near Gardens
The mountain behind Gardens looms large, casting its impressive shadow over all. A visit to Table Mountain is a must during your Cape Town holiday, and the route to the cable car station is only a few minutes drive from any Gardens accommodation.
If you fancy something a little quieter (and cheaper), take a taxi to the tip of Signal Hill, or simply take the hiking trail for a lovely summer’s day spent with friends. From here, at noon, you can watch the ritual of the noon gun being fired (not for the feint hearted!).
Shopping in Gardens
Gardens’ only shopping mall, which is named after the suburb, offers excellent every-day shopping. For something more eclectic or indigenous, take a trip to Long Street where you can find antiques and curios to your heart’s delight.
Getting around
Cape Town has one of the best public transport systems in South Africa. However, Gardens is rarely accessed by the Golden Arrow buses and the trains do not reach this deep into the City Bowl. If you are interested in getting around with more than just your two feet, why not hire a car? Choose from luxury vehicles, a Harley Davidson touring bike, a sidecar experience, or a simple nippy car to get you from A to B during your stay.
Further a field
Although Cape Town has a wide range of activities to keep you busy, if you are interested in exploring the wider area, the Cape Winelands is an excellent place to start. Take home a few bottles of wine from the historic estates of Paarl, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Constantia.
If seeing wild animals is what has bought you to this area, then the closest safari park to Cape Town Aquila will blow you away. The big five roam free in this 4 500 hectare park, and the experience is one which will stay with you for many a year.
Whatever you decide to do with your time in Cape Town, Gardens accommodation offers central positioning to all interesting tourist and business locations.
Gardens accommodation is known as the most vibrant places to stay in Cape Town, popular with students and tourists alike. As it is close to the centre of Cape Town, the shopping and entertainment options are endless.
