The beautiful, beachside community of Camps Bay is nestled between Table Mountain and the glittering Atlantic Ocean. It is perhaps Cape Town’s most happening and upmarket location, with swish bars, restaurants and shops along the promenade, palm-tree lined streets and a vibrant beach life lending the area a Riviera-type vibe. Camps Bay was first settled in the mid-1600s, when it became a stop over for traders working for the Dutch-East India Company. In the early 18th century, Lord Charles Somerset, the British Governor of the Cape, built a retreat there and news of the natural beauty of Camps Bay spread throughout the empire. Early on in Camp Bay’s history, local residents were determined that housing development would not spoil the location, resulting in the gentle, harmonious mix of low-rise apartments and villas that you see here today. If you are staying in Camps Bay, you will find most of the services you need, such as supermarkets and pharmacies along in the Promenade shopping arcade by the beach. If you are hankering for something a little more special, here are some suggestions: Sanctuary Spa, Victoria Road, Camps Bay. Tel. 021 437 9000One of the most renowned spas on the African continent, the Sanctuary Spa offers massage treatments in outdoor gazebos on the foreshore, hot and cold plunge pools and a Rasul Chamber. Cine 12, Victoria Road, Camps Bay. Tel. 021 437 9000 Located inside the 12 Apostles Hotel, here you can watch a movie (in a proper screening room) whilst enjoying a gourmet meal or snacks. Rose Korber Art, 48 Sedgemoor Road, Camps Bay Tel. 021 4389152This well-respected commercial gallery represents the best South African contemporary artists, in all mediums. Karma Lounge, 3rd floor, Penthouse Suite, Victoria Road, Camps Bay. Tel. 021 438 7773This stylish bar-lounge-club offers sushi and sunset cocktails, Djs and live music. For something really special head nudge you way into the Moët & Chandon champagne bar. The Codfather, First Floor Camps Bay Corner, Geneva Drive, Camps Bay. Tel 021 438 0782The freshest seafood sold by the weight and cooked to order — be it grilled, fried, steamed or sushi-ed — is available at this popular restaurant. Col’ Cacchio Pizzeria, Corner of the Meadway & Victoria Road, Camps Bay. Tel 021 438 2171For fine crust pizza and a fine view of the ocean, look no further. Café Caprice, 37 Victoria Road, Camps Bay, Tel. 021 438 8315 A Camps Bay institution, the stylish-yet-casual Cafe Caprice is perfect for a coffee, sundowner drink or light lunch or dinner.

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