The peaceful northern outlying suburb of Protea Heights is situated centrally between Cape Town and the internationally renowned winelands regions of Stellenbosch, Paarl, Durbanville and Franschhoek. It’s close to one of Cape Town’s largest shopping precincts too, the Tyger Valley and Woodbridge shopping complexes in Bellville.
Protea Heights lies in a crux of main highways linking the main cities of Cape Town, Stellenbosch and Paarl with easy access to Cape Town’s International airport. A typical suburb, Protea Heights has its share of parks, schools, churches and corner shops.
If you are seeking peace and quiet in a suburb near convenience and tourist attractions, Protea Heights is an ideal base.
Things to do
Go wine tasting along Bottelary Road for leisurely stops at Hazendal, Kaapzicht and Villiera Wine Estates, all beautiful wine estates with scenic views and internationally recognized wines. Kaapzicht offers cellar tours and Villiera has a wildlife sanctuary for game drive safaris.
If brandy is more your thing, call in at nearby Van Ryn Brandy Cellar for a tasting and Cooper demonstration of large vats being assembled to the sound of tapping feet.
Families with young children can enjoy the exciting activities at Bugz Family Playpark, a short drive from Protea Heights. Here, the emphasis is on learning through play. Nursery and restaurant on the premises keep the adults entertained.
For an active family outing, you can visit the Cool Runnings Toboggan Park in Bellville, Africa’s first tobogganing track. There’s no need to walk, an electrical pulley system transports the sled to the top of the hill before hurtling down the 12km track, reaching speeds of 40kph.
The Kuilsrivier Golf Club borders Protea Heights and visitors are welcome to enjoy a round on the 18-hole course.
Where to Eat
A busy little restaurant in the heart of Protea Heights, Rio Grande is a favoutite with the locals who love the generous and tasty fare. Good selection of burgers, steaks, poultry dishes and pizzas.
Schoongezicht Grill and Buffet Restaurant has a vast array of buffet dishes presented under thatch or on the wooden decks overlooking a pleasant garden.
Pre-order your meal for it to arrive in time for prime entertainment at the Barnyard Theatre dinner-theatre venue in Bellville.
Pop in at the Kuilsrivier Golf Club on a Sunday for their tasty set menu. Generous portions served and most affordable.
Night Life
To see how the locals party, visit the Tiekiedraai Langarm Dans nightclub to enjoy a themed evening of dancing. Langarm (long arm) is a type of funky waltz enjoyed by a large sector of the community. Phone beforehand to find out what’s on.
Durbanville’s supper club venue Die Boer hosts regular live bands, the place gets really vibey for a good night out.
Where to Stay
The welcoming owners and obliging staff at the B&B and self-catering units in Protea Heights strive to ensure your stay is delightful, filled with rich and rewarding memories.
Transport
Air Protea Heights is 25km away from Cape Town International Airport.
Car There are many car agencies in nearby Bellville, in Cape Town city and at the airport, to hire a vehicle or you could order a rental online.
Taxi Several metered taxis operate in Bellville and Cape Town. If you have the Uber app, request a ride via your mobile.
Did you know?
Participating farmers and shops in the surrounding areas provide free meat, vegetables and fruit daily to a charity organisation called Shiloh Synergy. Dishes are prepared and delivered to 67 informal settlements spread throughout Cape Town. These generous people have 25 soup kitchens and produce 63000 meals per month.