Somerset West is located in the Hottentots Holland area about half an hour’s drive from Cape Town along the N2. Found close to Stellenbosch, this part of the Cape Peninsula is a delightful setting for a residential suburb, promising larger properties and relative peace and quiet. The area takes its name from a former governor of the Cape Colony during the 1800s, Lord Charles Henry Somerset, with the suffix added to differentiate it from another South African town of the same name in the Eastern Cape.
There are several beaches that lie within reach of Somerset West, as it borders on the Atlantic Ocean and lies near False Bay. The nearest beach is that at Strand, located approximately 6 kilometres from the centre of town and is enormously popular with residents and holidaymakers. The area is also home to the Vergelegen wine estate, which houses an impressive 18th century Cape Dutch style farmhouse that is now owned by a subsidiary of the Anglo-American mining conglomerate. The current owners have also restored the farmhouse to its original beauty and the farm produces some of South Africa’s best wines.
Candles by Candlelight are a popular Christmas tradition that has been held annually in Somerset West for the past 20 years. Visitors are invited to bring picnic baskets, blankets and torches to celebrate this special time of year with family and friends on the sprawling lawns of the Vergelegen farm. The area is also renowned for its annual display of Christmas lights along the main road, which draws people from all over the countryside. The Helderberg Lights Festival complements these wonderful displays with a float procession, parades and flea market stalls all lined up beneath the lights. With such a wonderful family atmosphere, it really is no surprise that property in Somerset West is so sought after. |
