Chapman's Peak Drive Attractions

Chapman’s Peak Drive between Noordhoek and Hout Bay on the Atlantic Coast on the south-western tip of South Africa is one of the most spectacular marine drives in the world.

Chapman’s Peak Drive is affectionately known as “Chappies” and is a must for anyone who is passionate about the majestic Cape Town scenery, with sheer drops to the sea below and towering mountains rising above you. The twists and curves in the road seem endless and it is a photographers dream. Hardly a month goes by without an international film crew or TV commercial being hosted here.

It is not surprising that locals and visitors return again and again like a junkie needing a fix. It is a paradise for motorists, sightseers, picnickers, runners, hikers and bikers  (both the motorised and the manual varieties).

The 9 km route with its 114 curves skirts Chapman’s Peak and follows the rocky coastline to unfold stunning views in both directions. Chapman’s Peak itself is the southerly extension of Constantiaberg and rises 593m and is a great hike for the energetically inclined.  

Chapman's Peak Drive was the brain child of Sir Frederic de Waal, the first administrator of the Cape Province. (De Waal Drive in Cape Town was named after him.)  The route was formally opened in 1922.

Chapman's Peak Drive, originally known as the Hout Bay - Noorde Hoek Road, is a natural asset and resource, and is of strategic economic importance to business, local residents and tourism. This scenic Cape Town route is now a toll-road.

Scenic Drive: As one of the most spectacular marine drives in the world, Chapman's Peak Drive will make the most well travelled visitor stop in wonderment and jaw dropping amazement. Steep sandstone cliffs descend into the Atlantic Ocean with waves crashing at the base of the mountain. Whether you are driving your own vehicle from Noordhoek to Hout Bay or on a guided tour from Hout Bay to Noordhoek, this twisting dramatic drive is a must- do journey on the Cape Point Route.

Picnic spots: With excellent picnic facilities and countless viewpoints and points of view, we recommend grabbing a picnic hamper and some friends and spending some time absorbing the majesty of the mountains and the spectacle of the sea as they connect at Chapman’s Peak Drive. Find a secluded view site, especially at sunset, for one of the most romantic destinations on the Cape Point Route.

Whale Watching: Southern Right Whales visit the Cape Point Route coastline annually and Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the prime viewing sites to observe the breaching and blowing behaviour of these gentle sea giants from an elevated perspective. Peak Whale watching season is from July to November every year.

Hiking: Mountain hiking up Chapman’s Peak or the surrounding mountains of Silvermine nature Reserve or Table Mountain National Park offers an accessible wilderness experience. Eachhike comes complete with remarkable scenery, indigeneous trees and plant species. The traverse to the top of Chapman’s Peak is a moderate climb with the summit offering extensive views of the entire Cape Point Route.

Photography: Whether you are a happy snapper or a light and framing expert, Chapman’s Peak drive offers the opportunity to take home professional images. Viewpoints along the route allow road users the chance to stop, enjoy the views and take pictures of magnificent mountains, spectacular seascapes and expansive vistas. The picturesque villages of Hout Bay and Noordhoek could have been designed specifically for a memorable photograph.

Two Oceans Marathon: This road running event held over Easter each year is an ultra marathon that sees 10 000 runners persevering up each curve and bend of Chapman’s Peak Drive. Conquering "Chappies" as it is fondly called is one of the highlights in any runners logbook. It is an emotional sight for non runners to observe and cheer for the participants. Running "Chappies" is a popular training run for locals.

Pick ‘n Pay Argus Cycle Tour: 35 000 cyclists can’t be wrong! This annual biking event is one of the largest road biking events in the world. It covers the entire Cape Point Route in March every year and Chapman’s Peak Drive forms a distinct part of the race. Non riders should get there early to settle in for the day and cyclists revel in the achievement of dominating the mountain and nearing the end of the race. We recommend booking accommodation in advance.

Contact Details: 
Tel:  021 791 8222
Email: info@chapmanspeakdrive.co.za