Chartfield Guest House, Cape Town

Kalk Bay is a bastion to the Cape's sea-faring past. First visited by Simon Van Der Stel in the 17th Century one can't help but feel you've traveled back in time, worlds away from the high-rise hustle of Cape Town. Named after the chalky lime stone deposits found in the area by the Dutch in 1806 Kalk Baai (Chalk Bay) soon became a busy little fishing village. A railway line in 1883 brought with it more fishermen and tourists in their scores. In 1895 a municipality was founded and non-fishing families were encouraged to settle in the area. This developed into a tight knit bustling seaside village and much of everything that makes it special remains today. Everything in Kalk Bay is within safe walking distance and it's a great way to really soak up the charm of the village. Restaurants are speckled all along the main road along the shore catering for every taste should you wish to try something different away from Chartfield Guesthouse's cuisine. From festive pubs to tranquil eateries, everything is on your doorstep. There are monuments attesting to the history of Kalk Bay, a variety of quaint home-owned stores far removed from the impersonal malls of the city and Kalk Bay Books is one of the finest bookshops you'll find anywhere in the country should you fancy something to read while on holiday. Down the road is the Historic Naval Base in Simon's Town resplendent with old pubs and seaside dining. Within 30 minutes you are already at the Cape of Good Hope. or at the Cape Town City Centre or at the Airport.