Cape Town’s Hout Bay is not only famous for its fresh fish and busy harbour, but also as the “Republic of Hout Bay”. Back in the late 1980’s local businesses supported the Lions and Rotary Clubs to raise funds for charity by selling official-looking passports at the three entrances to Hout Bay, writes Des Langkilde.

Numerous tourists were even able to convince immigration officers around the world to stamp their Hout Bay passports. Urban legend has it that someone used his Republic of Hout Bay passport to travel around the world, without anybody noticing his false document.

Ever since this successful campaign, Hout Bay has become a popular tourist attraction among both local and international visitors. There is a variety of restaurants in the village as well as many bed and breakfasts and self-catering accommodation establishments.

One such establishment is The Tarragon. This 4-star rated self-catering property offers five cottages, each created out of Cape sandstone and individually designed and furnished in a sleek, modern style that belies the country setting.

Nestled high up on the wooded southern slopes of Table Mountain, The Tarragon commands dramatic views over the Hout Bay valley.  With over 8000m2 of grounds, the overwhelming atmosphere is one of space, tranquility and a certain aloofness from the rest of the world.

Each cottage offers intimate privacy with its own shady veranda, and with the many different terraces and lawns within the landscaped grounds every guest can escape entirely from the others.

Backing on to the property is part of the Table Mountain National Park, and there are numerous hiking trails within a stone’s throw.  Peacocks, butterflies and dragonflies highlight the remote setting, and yet the bustling city is just a twenty-minute scenic drive away.

Ideally situated to explore all the Cape Peninsula has to offer, The Tarragon is a fabulous base for honeymoon couples or tour groups. The Tarragon is just:

• 5 mins drive to nearest beaches;
• 5 mins drive to nearest shops and restaurants;
• 25 mins drive from the city centre;
• 30 mins drive from Cape Town International airport.

The famous Chapmans Peak Drive, three beautiful, unspoilt beaches with magnificent views (Hout Bay, Sandy Bay and Llandudno) are all only five minutes away. The city centre and waterfront are a scenic twenty-minute drive, or in ten minutes you could be wine tasting at a Constantia wine estate.

Owners of The Tarragon, Mark and Julia Fleming await your group tour or wedding reception enquiries.

For more information visit: www.thetarragon.com