Pinelands is a vibrant area on the edge of the southern suburbs of Cape Town, teeming with adventure, quirky and quaint spots, and plenty of foodie and family-friendly gems.
Situated close to the city center, Pinelands offers residents and visitors alike a tranquil retreat from the bustling urban life while still providing convenient access to all the amenities in Cape Town.
Here’s everything you can experience in Pinelands:
be.UP Park
If you are into thrilling and daring adventures, head to be.UP Park. Fun for the young and old alike, this indoor playground boasts a Trampoline Zone, an exclusive ALTIGAME®, Climbing Walls, and a Kids’ Maze. Visitors here can enjoy hours of fun with the option to host kids’ parties, corporate events and school groups. Once you have worked up an appetite, head to the Halal-friendly café for a bite to eat.
Location: Gardener Place, Rose Innes St, Pinelands
Prices: From R105
Contact: Visit www.beuppark.co.za
Oude Molen Eco Village
The Oude Molen Eco Village was initiated in 1997 by a small group of social entrepreneurs who, together with the local community and international volunteers, transformed the abandoned and vandalised hospital complex into a micro-enterprise village.
Today, the attraction is home to a variety of experiences, including a ceramic studio, an art gallery, horseback riding and lessons, restaurants and accommodations. Families with children will be delighted by the kid-friendly activities on offer.
Location: Alexandra Rd, Pinelands
Price: Various
Contact: Visit www.oudemolenecovillage.co.za/
Merry Pak
Merry Pak earns its nickname as the “Shop for everyone” with good reason. This gem offers a treasure trove of delights, boasting everything imaginable, from glassware and gift accessories to arts and crafts supplies, along with special packaging for Birthdays, Christmas, Easter, Eid, Valentine’s Day and even Halloween. Merry Pak is also home to the Merry Pak Good Food Cafe, where you can indulge in freshly baked bread, refreshing smoothies, decadent cakes, and delicious sweet and savoury pastries.
Location: 45 Morningside St, Ndabeni
Price: Various
Contact: Visit www.merrypak.co.za/
Howard Centre
Shopper can discover over 40 shops at Howard Centre, a popular mall in the area. From your usual convience grocery stores and ATMs to hair and restaurants, visitors will be spoiled for choice.
Address: Corner Howard & Forest Drive, Pinelands
Price: Various
Contact: Visit www.howardcentre.co.za
City Lodge Hotel Pinelands
The City Lodge Hotel Pinelands offers many amenities for the discerning traveller, including restaurants, a fitness room, a swimming pool, a sundowner bar, and a 12-seater boardroom. Boasting 133 rooms, guests can enjoy spacious air-conditioned accommodation with queen or twin beds, a TV with DSTV, tea and coffee making facilities, a desk and a shower. Accessible rooms are available for differently able travellers.
Golf enthusiasts can squeeze in a few rounds at the nearby King David Mowbray Golf Club or indulge in the local food scene. There are many B&Bs in the area, which provides a comfortable retreat for those who want something intimate.
Restaurants and Coffee Shops to Visit
Foodies will appreciate the coffee shops and restaurants scattered through Pinelands. All the regular fast-food and chain outlets (from KFC to Bootleggar) can be found in the area but here are a few you may not have known about:
HogHouse
Step inside HogHouse to sample freshly baked pastries paired with aromatic coffee, indulge in their extensive food menu, or savour a glass or two of their renowned beer selection.
The eatery welcomes guests with minimalist decor and provides the choice of indoor or outdoor seating. For those seeking a quiet space to work or conduct meetings, there are spaces available. You can also enjoy a beer tasting experience or try their Barbeque Experience every Friday from 5-8pm.
Location: 42 Morningside St, Ndabeni
Prices: Various
Contact: Visit hoghouse.co.za/
Rumi Cafe
Rumi Cafe, inspired by the 13th-century spiritual master Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, aims to provide a peaceful space for guests to escape the busyness of everyday life. This fully halal cafe offers a selection of breakfast options, sandwiches, burgers and light snacks on the menu. On a good-weather day, sit in the outdoor section under the massive tree.
Location: 33 Central Square, Pinelands
Prices: Various
Contact: Visit rumicafe.co.za/
Magica Roma
Magica Roma, hailed as one of Cape Town’s oldest restaurants, exudes the charm of traditional Italian dining with its warm and homely ambiance. The eatery is open for lunch, from 12pm to 2pm, and dinner, from 6-9pm, offering a menu that features a tantalising array of Italian favourites, including pasta dishes, pizzas, salads and tempting antipasti options.
Location: Central Building, 8 Central Square, Pinelands
Price: Various
Contact: Call +27 21 531 1489
Camissa Coffee Co.
Coffee aficionados will appreciate Camissa Coffee Co. Each cup is meticulously crafted using the finest beans, which is then paired with a selection of treats from their menu.
Location: 55 Morningside Street, Cape Town
Prices: Vary
Contact: Call +27 21 023 3422 or visit bit.ly/42L2siZ
Mother City Kitchen
Indulge in a dessert bunny chow (yes, it’s a thing!) and other authentic Cape Town cuisine at the Mother City Kitchen. Situated in a business park, this canteen offers halal meals, ranging from fresh pastries, toasties, and bagels to wraps, burgers and Gatsby’s.
Location: 36 Old Mill Road, Ndabeni
Price: Vary
Contact: Call 072 399 6099
