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Gordon’s Bay
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Steenbras Dam Viewpoint, Mountainside, Cape Town, South Africa
Hidden gems like the Steenbras Dam Viewpoint reward those who drive the scenic ascent from the R44 (Clarence Drive) up to the Steenbras water treatment plant. A short walk along a narrow ridge unfolds a breathtaking vantage over the azure waters of False Bay, the cascading rooftops of Gordon’s Bay, and the distant plains of Somerset West. The route features a distinctive >180° hairpin bend—well-signed and surprisingly manageable—with a no-permit-required parking area just below the treatment plant gate. From there, a brief but steady stroll leads to the clearing used as the primary lookout point. Locals describe the view as both "relaxing and tranquil" and "breathtaking," offering an ideal spot for quiet reflection or capturing a stunning sunset. Important Update: As of March 2023, the access road to the viewpoint was closed due to storm damage from December 2022, and remains closed with anticipated reopening not before 2025.
Features Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Drive up from Clarence Drive (R44), park by Steenbras water plant |
| Views | False Bay, Gordon’s Bay, Somerset West, Hottentots Holland Mountains |
| Trail | Short walk along narrow ridge to clearing—requires cautious footing |
| Ambience | Peaceful, panoramic, especially stunning at sunset or in quieter seasons |
| Access Caution | Road currently closed due to damage; expected to reopen around 2025 |
| Recommended For | Scenic self-drive, photography, calm contemplation outside peak crowds |
Local Insight
“Just outside of Gordon’s Bay, take the road up to Steenbras Dam Viewpoint. Amazing view.”
Hidden gems like the Steenbras Dam Viewpoint reward those who drive the scenic ascent from the R44 (Clarence Drive) up to the Steenbras water treatment plant. A short walk along a narrow ridge unfolds a breathtaking vantage over the azure waters of False Bay, the cascading rooftops of Gordon’s Bay, and the distant plains of Somerset West. The route features a distinctive >180° hairpin bend—well-signed and surprisingly manageable—with a no-permit-required parking area just below the treatment plant gate. From there, a brief but steady stroll leads to the clearing used as the primary lookout point. Locals describe the view as both "relaxing and tranquil" and "breathtaking," offering an ideal spot for quiet reflection or capturing a stunning sunset. Important Update: As of March 2023, the access road to the viewpoint was closed due to storm damage from December 2022, and remains closed with anticipated reopening not before 2025.
Features Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Drive up from Clarence Drive (R44), park by Steenbras water plant |
| Views | False Bay, Gordon’s Bay, Somerset West, Hottentots Holland Mountains |
| Trail | Short walk along narrow ridge to clearing—requires cautious footing |
| Ambience | Peaceful, panoramic, especially stunning at sunset or in quieter seasons |
| Access Caution | Road currently closed due to damage; expected to reopen around 2025 |
| Recommended For | Scenic self-drive, photography, calm contemplation outside peak crowds |
Local Insight
“Just outside of Gordon’s Bay, take the road up to Steenbras Dam Viewpoint. Amazing view.”
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