The Enigmatic Ruins of Foresters Cottage
Discover the historic Foresters Cottage ruins in Hout Bay, a picturesque site offering stunning views and a glimpse into Cape Town's storied past.
Nestled at the foot of Hangberg in Hout Bay, the historic Foresters Cottage invites tourists to explore its intriguing ruins, offering a glimpse into Cape Town's rich past amidst breathtaking coastal scenery.
A brief summary to Foresters Cottage (in ruins, built circa 1920)
- situated at the foot of Hangberg, off, 1 Chapmans Peak Dr, Cape Town, Hout Bay Harbour, 7806, ZA
- +27217902008
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven around the ruins.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
- Consider combining your visit with a hike in the nearby mountains for breathtaking views.
- Respect the historical significance of the site by not climbing on the ruins.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are starting from the Hout Bay Harbour area, exit the harbor and head towards Chapman's Peak Drive. Walk along Chapman's Peak Drive towards the direction of Hangberg. After about 15-20 minutes of walking, you will see a pathway leading up the hill on your left. This pathway is not well-marked, so keep an eye out for the trail signs. Follow this path for approximately 10 minutes until you reach Foresters Cottage, located at the foot of Hangberg.
-
Public Transport
From the Hout Bay Main Road, catch the MyCiTi bus heading towards Hout Bay. Get off at the Hout Bay Harbour stop. From there, follow the walking directions above to reach Foresters Cottage. Note that the MyCiTi bus fare is approximately R12 to R20, depending on your starting point.
-
Bicycle
If you prefer to cycle, you can rent a bicycle from one of the local rental shops in Hout Bay. Once you have your bike, head towards Chapman's Peak Drive. Cycle along the road towards Hangberg, where you can park your bicycle at the entrance of the hiking trail leading to Foresters Cottage. The cycling distance is about 3 kilometers and will take around 15-20 minutes. Make sure to wear a helmet and be cautious of traffic.
Discover more about Foresters Cottage (in ruins, built circa 1920)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Foresters Cottage (in ruins, built circa 1920)
0.0 km
Discover the historic Foresters Cottage ruins in Hout Bay, a picturesque site offering stunning views and a glimpse into Cape Town's storied past.
East Fort (upper) | the Cook House
0.2 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at East Fort, a key landmark within Cape Town's stunning Table Mountain National Park.
WWII remains of pre-fab Quarters & Toilet
0.2 km
Explore the WWII remains of pre-fab quarters in Hout Bay, a historical landmark that narrates stories of sacrifice against breathtaking coastal views.
خليج الهوت بي
0.3 km
Explore the stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history of Hout Bay, a captivating coastal gem near Cape Town.
West Fort
1.7 km
Discover the maritime history and breathtaking views at West Fort in Hout Bay, Cape Town – an essential stop for every curious traveler.
Circe Launches
1.8 km
Explore the breathtaking coastline of Cape Town with exhilarating boat tours at Circe Launches, located in the beautiful Hout Bay Harbour.
Jonkershuis Constantia
5.6 km
Discover exquisite dining at Jonkershuis Constantia, set in the heart of Groot Constantia wine estate, where culinary mastery meets stunning vineyard views.
Silvermine Nature Reserve
6.0 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Silvermine Nature Reserve, a must-visit natural wonder in Cape Town.
Constantia Nek
6.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Constantia Nek, a national park in Cape Town, where adventure meets tranquility in nature's embrace.
Groot Constantia-Trust
6.3 km
Discover Groot Constantia, South Africa's oldest wine estate, where rich heritage meets stunning landscapes and exquisite wines for an unforgettable experience.
Constantia Mist
6.3 km
Discover the charm of Constantia Mist Vineyard, where exceptional wines and stunning landscapes create an unforgettable experience in Cape Town's premier wine region.
Constantia Glen
6.3 km
Discover the beauty and exquisite wines of Constantia Glen, where breathtaking views meet world-class winemaking in Cape Town's iconic Constantia Valley.
Cecilia, Table Mountain
7.1 km
Discover the natural wonders of Cecilia, Table Mountain, a breathtaking hiking area in Cape Town, perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Silverhurst Trail
7.2 km
Explore the scenic Silverhurst Trail in Cape Town's Constantia, a tranquil path through nature with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Constantia Greenbelt and Forest
8.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Constantia Greenbelt and Forest, a natural oasis in Cape Town perfect for picnics, walks, and wildlife watching.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chapmans Peak Hiking Trail North
0.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Chapmans Peak Hiking Trail North, a stunning coastal hike offering panoramic views and unforgettable experiences in Cape Town.
Chapman's Peak Drive
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas and thrilling hikes of Chapman's Peak Drive, one of South Africa's most scenic coastal routes.
Bronze Leopard
0.8 km
Experience the majestic Bronze Leopard sculpture in Hout Bay, a perfect blend of art and nature in Cape Town's stunning landscape.
8 Chapmans Peak Dr
0.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and unforgettable coastal scenery at Chapman's Peak Drive, a must-visit destination near Cape Town.
Hout Bay
1.5 km
Explore Hout Bay: A breathtaking bay near Cape Town, offering stunning views, vibrant markets, and delectable seafood experiences.
Harbour - Houtbaai
1.6 km
Explore the stunning views, fresh seafood, and vibrant culture at Hout Bay Harbour, a must-visit destination in Cape Town.
Hout Bay Beach
1.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hout Bay Beach, where golden sands meet the majestic mountains of Cape Town, offering adventure and relaxation.
Hout Bay Museum
1.7 km
Explore Hout Bay Museum: A captivating journey through the history and culture of Hout Bay, showcasing its transformation and rich heritage.
Bay Harbour Market
1.7 km
Explore the Bay Harbour Market: A vibrant destination for food, crafts, and local culture in the heart of Hout Bay.
Lookout
1.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hout Bay and the Atlantic Ocean from Chapman's Peak Lookout, a must-see attraction in Cape Town.
Animal Ocean Seal Snorkeling
1.8 km
Swim with playful seals in their natural habitat at Animal Ocean Seal Snorkeling, Hout Bay, Cape Town - an unforgettable marine adventure awaits.
Seal Encounter
1.8 km
Discover the joy of playful seals at the Seal Encounter in Hout Bay, a must-visit attraction for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Hout Bay Seal Island cruise
1.9 km
Discover the captivating Hout Bay Seal Island cruise, where stunning views and playful seals await on your adventure in South Africa.
Karbonkelberg Tourism
2.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Karbonkelberg in Hout Bay, where adventure meets nature in the stunning Cape Town landscape.
Chapman's Peak Hiking Trail - Start Point
2.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and natural beauty at Chapman's Peak Hiking Trail in Hout Bay, Cape Town - a must-visit for all nature lovers.
Essential places to dine
The Indian Oven
1.0 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine at The Indian Oven in Hout Bay, where every dish tells a story of rich flavors and tradition.
Casareccio Cucina Italiana
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Casareccio Cucina Italiana in Hout Bay - where every dish tells a story.
Delish Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and lunches at Delish Restaurant in Hout Bay while enjoying stunning coastal views.
Dunes Beach Restaurant & Bar
1.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of stunning views and delicious cuisine at Dunes Beach Restaurant & Bar in Cape Town.
Cheyne's
1.3 km
Experience the fusion of local flavors and global cuisine at Cheyne's in Cape Town - a must-visit restaurant for all food lovers.
Mariner's Wharf Harbour Front Emporium
1.8 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Mariner's Wharf Harbour Front Emporium with stunning ocean views in beautiful Hout Bay.
The Vic Bistro and Bar
1.8 km
Savor exquisite flavors at The Vic Bistro and Bar in Hout Bay - where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views.
The Lookout Hout Bay
1.9 km
Experience unforgettable dining with stunning ocean views at The Lookout Hout Bay - where fresh flavors meet breathtaking scenery.
The Pelican
2.0 km
Experience coastal dining at its finest at The Pelican in Hout Bay—fresh seafood, stunning views, and delightful South African cuisine await you.
Massimo's
4.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Massimo's in Hout Bay – where every meal is a celebration of flavor amidst stunning scenery.
Cape Point Vineyards Restaurant
4.8 km
Experience breathtaking ocean views and exquisite cuisine at Cape Point Vineyards Restaurant - a true gem in Cape Town's culinary scene.
The Foodbarn Café & Tapas
4.9 km
Experience exceptional French and seafood cuisine at The Foodbarn Café & Tapas in Noordhoek Farm Village, where family-friendly dining meets culinary excellence.
Simon's Restaurant
5.5 km
Discover Simon's Restaurant at Groot Constantia Wine Estate: A fine dining experience celebrating South African flavors amidst breathtaking vineyard views.
La Colombe Restaurant
5.6 km
Experience exquisite modern French cuisine at La Colombe Restaurant in Constantia Nek, Cape Town - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking views.
Old Town Italy Constantia
6.8 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Old Town Italy Constantia - where every meal is a culinary adventure amidst breathtaking surroundings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mila's Boutique
1.1 km
Explore Mila's Boutique in Hout Bay for unique fashion that celebrates South African culture, crafted by local artisans.
Hout Bay Trading Store
1.5 km
Explore the charm of Hout Bay Trading Store, where every antique tells a story and every visit is a journey through history.
The Dizzydots Shop
1.7 km
Explore The Dizzydots Shop in Hout Bay for unique gifts, local art, and handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of Cape Town's vibrant culture.
WhoSoxs Art Gallery
1.7 km
Explore the vibrant contemporary art scene at WhoSoxs Art Gallery in Hout Bay, Cape Town - a must-visit for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Ye Olde Artifact Cove & Shipwreck Shoppe
1.8 km
Explore unique marine antiques and curiosities at Ye Olde Artifact Cove & Shipwreck Shoppe in Hout Bay, a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.
This Shop Rox!
1.9 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique handcrafted goods at This Shop Rox!, a boutique in Hout Bay, Cape Town, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
Ocean Grown Crafts
2.0 km
Explore the artistic spirit of South Africa at Ocean Grown Crafts in Hout Bay, offering unique handmade treasures and a vibrant local atmosphere.
Matches Store
2.0 km
Explore stylish clothing at Matches Store in Hout Bay, a must-visit destination for fashion enthusiasts seeking unique South African flair.
The Crazy Store Hout Bay
2.1 km
Explore The Crazy Store Hout Bay for unique gifts, toys, and home essentials in the heart of Cape Town's picturesque Hout Bay.
Chic-A-Boom Boutique
2.1 km
Discover unique fashion finds at Chic-A-Boom Boutique, a stylish destination in Hout Bay, Cape Town, offering curated clothing and accessories.
the STUDIO
5.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan crafts at The STUDIO in Constantia, a charming gift shop in Cape Town that captures the essence of South African culture.
Birds of a Feather
6.8 km
Explore the charm and creativity of South African craftsmanship at Birds of a Feather, a unique gift shop in Constantia, Cape Town.
TESSUTI
6.9 km
Explore TESSUTI in Constantia, Cape Town, for stunning women's clothing and exceptional service in a beautiful boutique setting.
Brand Collective Constantia Emporium
7.8 km
Explore unique fashion at Brand Collective Constantia Emporium, a vibrant clothing store in the heart of Cape Town's picturesque Constantia area.
Chica-Loca!
7.8 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Chica-Loca!, a ladies boutique in Bergvliet offering unique fashion and accessories that capture the essence of Cape Town.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Chapman's Peak Wine & Spirits
0.9 km
Discover the essence of South Africa at Chapman's Peak Wine & Spirits, where local wines and premium cigars meet stunning ocean views.
The Beach Bar
1.0 km
Discover the coastal charm of The Beach Bar in Cape Town, where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Workshop Pub
1.1 km
Experience the essence of South African culture at The Workshop Pub in Hout Bay, where good food, drinks, and friendly faces await.
Woodcutters Arms
1.4 km
Discover the flavors of South Africa at Woodcutters Arms in Hout Bay, where local cuisine meets rustic charm for an unforgettable dining experience.
Fisherman Cottage
1.8 km
Discover the charm of Fisherman Cottage, a cozy bar in Hout Bay Harbour, Cape Town, offering delightful drinks and stunning ocean views.
Shirley's
2.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Shirley's, a beloved bar in Hout Bay, Cape Town, perfect for enjoying local drinks and nightlife.
Cheroots
2.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cheroots, a cozy bar in Hout Bay offering delightful drinks and stunning views.
Maart's Mancave
5.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Maart's Mancave, a local bar in Hout Bay offering a unique blend of drinks and community spirit.
Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia
5.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia, where gourmet dishes meet breathtaking vineyard views in Cape Town's premier dining destination.
La Parada Constantia Nek
5.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Cape Town at La Parada Constantia Nek, a premier tapas restaurant nestled in the heart of Hout Bay.
The Leopard Bar
7.9 km
Experience luxury and breathtaking views at The Leopard Bar, a premier cocktail bar in Cape Town's Twelve Apostles Hotel.
The Bay @ False Bay Rugby Club
8.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of dining and sports at The Bay @ False Bay Rugby Club, a family-friendly bar and grill in the heart of Constantia, Cape Town.
Incognito
9.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Incognito, a cocktail bar in Constantia offering exquisite tapas, live music, and unforgettable experiences.
O'kennedy's Pub & Grill
9.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled dishes at O'Kennedy's Pub & Grill, a local favorite in Diep River, Cape Town.
The Chilli Bar
11.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious flavors at The Chilli Bar, a must-visit spot in Cape Town for food and drink enthusiasts.