Riding the Chapman’s Peak Drive takes in some of the most stunning views the Cape Peninsula, in South Africa, has to offer. This 9km (5 mi) winding road with 114 curves runs from Noordhoek to Hout Bay. Locals usually refer to the road as “Chappies” and, although it’s a toll road, it’s generally thought to be one of the best coastal drives in the world.
The route starts in the picturesque fishing harbor of Hout Bay before the road steeply climbs up to Chapman’s Point. Chapman’s Point offers breathtaking views of the sandy bays below. After this, the road descends before reaching Noordhoek.
The road is paved with asphalt and has a couple of steep sections. Drivers are advised to be careful when driving the route, due to the sharp turns and steep gradients. Depending on the type of rider you are, this may make riding Chapman’s Peak Drive even more appealing.
How many kilometres is it / How long does it take to ride it? Chapman’s Peak Drive, which connects Noordhoek and Hout Bay, is nearly 9km (5 mi) long. So, it’s fairly a short ride, less than 30 minutes, but the road offers plenty of photo opportunities.
Are there any accommodation or camping options along the way? In terms of accommodation, there’s a lot to choose from in the towns near Chapman’s Peak Drive such as Hout Bay, Scott Estate, Chapmans Peak, Tokai, Noordhoek, and Constantia.
Interesting sights on the route? There are countless scenic views to enjoy along the Chapman’s Peak Drive. But, Chapman’s Peak is definitely the highlight of the route and is a perfect location for some whale and dolphin watching.
One of the main attractions is Table Mountain National Park, which is South Africa’s most diverse Nature Reserve. It’s also somewhere to take in views of the incredibly scenic Peninsula mountain chain.
If beaches are your thing, then you should definitely check out Hout Bay Beach and Noordhoek’s Long Beach.
What is the best time of year to travel the route? The route can be ridden at any time of the year. The best time to go whale spotting is mid-August to mid-November but, if you’re in search of sunshine, it’s best to go in January.
Is the route ever closed over winter? Chapman’s Peak Drive is technically open every day of the year, however, expect closures if there’s severely bad weather in winter. The road can also be closed from time to time due to high winds, heavy or continuous rainfall, maintenance, or the clearing of rocks caught in the catch fences.
Where are people able to get fuel when they are riding the route? The towns of Scott Estate, Hout Bay, Glencairn Heights, Sunnydale, Fish Hoek, Tokai, and Kommetjie all have places to fill up.
Photo credit: Jeroen Looyé / CC BY Photo credit: Bernard DUPONT / CC BY Photo credit: Claudia Schillinger / CC BY Photo credit: not required on Pixabay 