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Plattekloof once part of the De Villiers Graaff Family Trust and a gem in the northern suburbs’ crown, is now one of Cape Town’s most sought-after areas. Positioned against the Tygerberg Hills, Plattekloof shares a border with De Grendel wine estate, which is part of the Durbanville Wine Route.
The farm dates from 1720 when the land was first awarded to a Danish settler, Claas Mayboom, by Governor van der Stel. South African businessman and politician Sir David De Villiers Graaff bought it 1890 to be used as a breeding and resting ground for the prized pure-bred Arab horses he bought while travelling in Argentina.
While there are references to grapes having been grown on De Grendel from as early as the 1800s, viniculture was firmly established on the estate in 2000. It now produces award-winning wines and is home to a fine dining restaurant.
The stunning stretch of land which is Plattekloof offers panoramic views of Cape Town, Table Bay and Table Mountain, attracting visitors, investors and locals. “The high demand for property in this part of the world stems largely from being able gaze at sea and mountains while going about your daily tasks,” says Just Property consultant Jason Wright.
Plattekloof has a strong community-orientated lifestyle with the Plattekloof Village Shopping Centre offering a variety of amenities to cater for daily needs, says Wright. “Its central location means Plattekloof is well-positioned, with high quality and diverse dining options close by.” Another drawcard for Plattekloof is its outdoor sporting lifestyle, with numerous mountain bike and hiking trails throughout the area.
Plattekloof’s diversity caters for all – from first-time buyers to retirees. - Jason Wright, Just Property Consultant
Picture: Supplied
“One of my favourites is the Tygerberg Nature Reserve, which can be enjoyed by sports fanatics and nature lovers alike,” says Wright. “The reserve covers an area of 309ha and is home to 562 plant varieties and more than 137 different species of birds. You may even spot a Cape fox or honey badger along the way.”
A dramatic rise in property interest and development has been noted, says Wright, particularly in the newest part of Plattekloof, Baronetcy.
“As a property consultant, carrying out market valuations and listings in this upmarket suburb gives the feeling that you have arrived,” he says. “The lavish architecture and opulent finishes are a trademark of this swanky suburb – not to mention jaw-dropping views from the top of the hill. Good luck gaining access though, if your arrival is not expected and approved by one of the homeowners you won’t get in.”
A multi-storey house in Keurboom Crescent, Plattekloof. Picture: Tracey Adams/African News Agency (ANA)
Comparisons have been drawn with Constantia’s Steenberg region due in part to the expansiveness of the opulent homes built in security estates. These are regarded as among the most exclusive in the Western Cape, says Wright.
“Plattekloof’s diversity caters for everyone from first-time buyers to retirees,” he says. “An entry-level three-bedroom townhouse will begin from R1.6 million, yet in the same suburb you will easily find lavish homes at R33m, offering state-of-the-art cinemas and finishes fit for royalty.
“It’s fair to say Millionaires Lane is where you’ll find the palatial homes of the northern suburbs and it’s no wonder those who have chosen to settle in Plattekloof experience a tranquil existence in a leafy suburb with beautiful Cape Town as their daily backdrop.”
Ryan O’Connor’s favourite places and things to do
On the slopes of Tygerberg Hills, Plattekloof is situated between the hustle of the city and the Western Cape’s Winelands. It has fantastic schools and restaurants, but the main reason I love the area is its clear air and blue skies, mixed with the occasional smell of a braai in summer. - Resident Ryan O'Çonnor
Picture: Supplied
1 Eat
Enjoy a fabulous meal at De Grendel Restaurant, which carries with it the enormous bonus of all wines at cellar door prices, making a huge difference when the bill arrives. The menu focuses on locally sourced ingredients, including those produced right there on the farm – from honey and yoghurt to guinea fowl and pasture-raised beef and lamb; to organic vegetables, such as kohlrabi and Jerusalem artichokes. 0215587035
2 Outdoors
Tackle the mountain bike routes or hiking trails in the beautiful Tygerberg Nature Reserve, or head down to Milnerton Lagoon to watch a glorious sunset with views across Table Bay.
A scenic view of Milnerton Lagoon. Picture: Tracey Adams/African News Agency (ANA)
3 Drink
Sample the wines at De Grendel, or any of the other 12 farms which make up the Durbanville route, many of which are famous for their sauvignon blancs. Besides Michelangelo and Veritas, which announced their award winners this month, the 2018 FNB Sauvignon Blanc Top 10 competition gave prominence to D’Aria’s The Songbird 2017, De Grendel Koetshuis 2017 (wooded), Diemersdal Winter Ferment 2018, and Nitida Wild Child 2017 (wooded).
4 Shop
The Plattekloof Village Shopping Centre (021 558 3506) has a variety of shops and outlets as well as fast food franchises for a meal on the go. N1 City is situated nearby, with 140 retail stores, many shops and restaurants, plus a cinema complex. 021 595 1170.
5 Market
The popular Milnerton Flea Market is held at weekends, where one can pick up abandoned treasures. The open-air market - actually in Paarden Eiland - is child-friendly and animal-friendly. Browse with the fabulous view of Table Bay and Table Mountain as a backdrop while you do your shopping. 021 551 7879.