The suburb of Observatory lies between Woodstock and Pinelands, near to Cape Town’s dynamic city centre. Also known affectionately as “Obs”, this historic neighbourhood is regarded as hub of art and culture where many students choose to settle during their academic years. 

Property for sale in Observatory is sought after by an eclectic community of working professionals and students while the free-standing homes provide ideal space for families or those running businesses from home. Apartments and flats to rent in Observatory offer a more affordable option for those seeking something smaller while properties with numerous bedrooms appeal to house-sharers or first-time buyers. Property here comes in all shapes and styles but older houses have a touch of Victorian influence which adds to the area’s charm and appeal. With a train station in the centre of Observatory, houses to rent are perfectly positioned for a quick commute to surrounding suburbs or the city centre. Take a look at the available flats to rent or houses for sale in this lively residential area in Cape Town.

Explore Observatory

Art and culture

Art and culture

Explore the local art galleries to get a taste of some of Cape Town’s talent or stop by the Neighbourgoods Market in nearby Woodstock to enjoy local food, fashion and hand crafted goodies. Also not to be missed is the annual Obs Art Festival, a 3 day celebration of local music, food, and street performances.

Family fun

Family fun

Take a short drive to the V&A Waterfront to enjoy a movie, a visit to the aquarium, educational exhibitions or a round of cave golf. 

Sport

Sport

The Mowbray Golf Club is close by and there are also a few local sports clubs with hockey and soccer facilities that service the community including The River Club and Hartleyvale Hockey Centre. 

Restaurants and nightlife

Restaurants and nightlife

Observatory offers an exciting selection of cafes, delis, fast food outlets and local restaurants to enjoy meal specials or happy hour discounts. 

Living in Observatory

Areas near to Observatory

Athlone, Bergvliet, Bishopscourt, Claremont, Constantia, Kenilworth, Mowbray, Newlands, Pinelands, Plumstead, Rondebosch, Rosebank, Tokai, University Estate, Walmer Estate, Woodstock, Wynberg,

Education

Within the surrounding area you’ll find Peakview Primary School, Rustenberg Girl’s (Junior and High), St George’s Grammar School, Mowbray Public School and Observatory Junior School. Tertiary institutions close by include Damelin College, Progress College, the University of Cape Town as well as The Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT). 

Healthcare

Mowbray Maternity Clinic, Groote Schuur and The Red Cross War Memorial’s Children’s Hospital are all just 10 minutes away while the highly regarded Vincent Pallotti Hospital is also close by.

Shopping

Here you’ll find a variety of side-street convenience stores, trinket shops and cafes. Get all your daily shopping done at the local Pick n Pay or St Peters Square or venture into Rondebosch for even more variety.

Travel

Public transport options here include the centrally-located train station, MyCiTi and Golden Arrow bus services and minibus taxis. You’ll be able to connect to town or surrounding highways with ease or get to the Cape Town International Airport in about 20 minutes.

For example Camps Bay or Mauritius