The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town.
Set against a backdrop of inspiring sea and mountain views, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is not only South Africa´s most visited tourist attraction, but it is also home to many stores, boutiques and restaurants. People love to come to the Waterfront and enjoy the view from many of the restaurants.
The V&A Waterfront is built around a centuries-old harbour that remains fully operational to this day. At the V&A Waterfront visitors can enjoy everything from shopping, fine dining, street performers, museums, an incredible aquarium and boat trips.
Whenever I visit Cape Town City, or like the Capetonians call her, The Mother City, I visit the V&A Waterfront. There is something magical about this place. I am not sure if it is the mountain, water, view or the relaxing atmosphere but it is good for the soul. The Waterfront is packed over weekends and holidays so make sure you arrive early or reserve if you are planning to eat something.
The Two Oceans Aquarium.
A really cool place to visit is the Two Oceans Aquarium. Here you will be able to see over 300 species of marine animals including including sharks, tuna, rays and penguins.
History of the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.
A little bit of history. It started off with a small jetty, built by Jan van Riebeeck in 1654. His task was to establish a refreshment station at the foot of Africa for the Dutch India Company. The Cape had become a stopover for Dutch ships sailing to Eastern Africa, India and the Far East for exotic goods.
In 1858 serious winter storms wrecked over 30 vessels. The insurance company Lloyds of London refused to cover ships wintering in Table Bay. In 1860, HRH Prince Alfred, second son of Queen Victoria tipped the first load of stone and construction for Cape Town´s first harbour has started. The V&A Waterfront was named after Prince Alfred and his mother.
Between 1860 and 1920 construction took place for two harbour basins. The reason? Gold and diamonds is discovered. Work started in 1938 and completed in 1945. The Second World War delayed the work.
In 1988, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is established to promote retail, tourism and residential development, with the continued operation of a working harbour.
The V&A Waterfront is one of my favorite places in Cape Town. Cape Town Travel Guide and more information.
You didn't mention the free entertainment there. It was wonderful wandering around listening to all the street performers. I bought 3 CDs from groups performing.
It looks like a fabulous place to visit.:) And, I like the coolness of its surroundings, surely a relaxing place for a stroll…:) Thanks Nelieta.:)x
This looks wonderful….and well worth a visit. Between you and Jorie my list of places to travel to just gets longer, Nelieta!
two ocean aquarium is mesmerizing, Cape Town – another wonderful place to visit and plenty to see.
Hi Jorie, it is very crowded over weekends but it is still a great place to have a stroll and to enjoy the surroundings.
Great memories at V&A. Also got some really great eating areas. They make the best butterscotch milkshakes ever tasted! Love your photos, you have really caught the feel of the place. Lively vibrant and fun.
Great to know that you have also enjoyed it Kerry-Ann. You are right there are so many fine places to eat. I cannot remember anyone in particular now but they are all good! Oh no how you make my mouth water now! Butterscotch milkshake! That is something you don´t find here in Argentina – milkshake! The V&A is very vibrant!
Great post! I hear good reports about Cape Town as a travel destination so might have to put it on my wishlist.
Nelieta, this was a great post! Wonderful history and photos:)
Hi Spencer, thank you! Cape Town is a wonderful holiday destination. There is so much to do and I am not just saying it because I am South African 🙂 The atmosphere is so much more relaxed than the rat race in Johannesburg. It is a great place to relax and enjoy a variety of activities.
Hi Mary, thank you! What would a review about the V&A Waterfront be without a little history lesson..lol!
Thanks for the reminder Jim! I completely forgot about that!
Great to know that you have also enjoyed it Kerry-Ann. You are right there are so many fine places to eat. I cannot remember anyone in particular now but they are all good! Oh no how you make my mouth water now! Butterscotch milkshake! That is something you don´t find here in Argentina – milkshake! The V&A is very vibrant!
You´ve been to Cape Town Navaveetham? Great so then you know exactly what I am talking about. I will share the Two Oceans Aquarium in another blog at a later stage 🙂 There is much to tell!
Hi Corinne, yes there are so many wonderful places in the world to visit 🙂 With Jorie´s help my list is also getting longer..lol!