Happy TravellerWelcome to Rondebosch, one of the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town, South Africa. This primarily residential suburb is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Rondebosch has something for everyone. Join us as we explore this charming city and discover why it should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
History:
Rondebosch has a rich history that dates back to the early days of Dutch settlement in South Africa. In 1656, Jan van Riebeeck visited Rondeboschyn, whose name derived from a contraction of Ronde Doorn Bossien, meaning a circular grove of thorn trees. In 1657, the first group of Dutch East India Company employees gained free burgher (free citizen) status and were granted land along the river in the area now known as Rondebosch.
Geography:
Rondebosch lies between the slopes of Devils Peak in the west and the M5 freeway in the east. It is one of the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town, which lie along the eastern slope of the Table Mountain massif. The suburbs western border with the Table Mountain National Park is defined by the M3 freeway. To the north are the suburbs of Rosebank and Mowbray, while to the south are Newlands and Claremont. The eastern border of Rondebosch is the M5 freeway; beyond the freeway are Sybrand Park, Athlone and Rondebosch East. The Southern Line railway divides Rondebosch in two.
Landmarks:
Rondebosch is home to several historic landmarks that are worth visiting. On the slopes of Devils Peak above Rondebosch is the main campus of the University of Cape Town. The historic Groote Schuur estate in Rondebosch includes presidential and ministerial residences with Cape Dutch origins. Other historic buildings in the area include the Rondebosch Town Hall, now occupied by the Rondebosch Library, and St. Pauls Church, which was designed by Charles Collier Michell. Rondebosch Common, once a military campground, is a national monument and an important fynbos conservation area. The Baxter Theatre in Rondebosch is Cape Towns second biggest theatre complex, after the Artscape Theatre Centre in the city centre.
Government and politics:
Rondebosch is in the City of Cape Town municipality, within the Protea Sub-Council (Sub-Council 20). The eastern part of the suburb is within ward 58 and the ward councillor is Sharon Cottle, and the western part is in ward 59 with councillor Ian Iversen, both members of the Democratic Alliance.
Education:
The western part of Rondebosch is dominated by the main campus of the University of Cape Town. Rondebosch is also notable for a high density of schools. Originally the Rondebosch Town Hall the Rondebosch Public Library is a notable landmark in the neighbourhood.
Sports and recreation:
Western Province Cricket Club is the largest sports facility in Rondebosch, catering for many different sports, including tennis and hockey. The University itself has facilities for most sports. Other facilities include Rondebosch Golf Club and Rygersdal Football Club. Parks in Rondebosch include Keurboom Park and Rondebosch Park. Rondebosch Common is also a popular recreational area.
Demographics:
According to the 2011 census, 14,591 people live in Rondebosch. 62.7% described themselves as White, 16.5% as Black African, 9.6% as Coloured and 6.1% as Indian or Asian. The predominant language is English, which is the first language of 84.3% of the population. 7.6% speak Afrikaans and 1.8% speak Xhosa.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or modern amenities, Rondebosch has something for everyone. Come and explore this charming city and discover why it should be on your travel bucket list.
