Chapman's Peak Drive

Chapman's Peak Drive is a short toll road carved into the cliffs between Hout Bay and Noordhoek on the Cape Peninsula, just south of Cape Town. In a handful of miles it delivers one of the most famous coastal views in the world: a curving ribbon of road hanging above the Atlantic.

It is short enough to ride twice, and it is the perfect centerpiece of a full Cape Peninsula loop that continues to Cape Point and back along False Bay.

Highlights

• The lookout points above Hout Bay and the Sentinel
• Sunset over the Atlantic from the road's viewpoints
• Noordhoek beach at the southern end
• Continuing to Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope
• Returning via Simon's Town and the penguins at Boulders Beach

Best time to ride

Rideable all year. Summer (November–March) is drier but windy; the road can close for rockfall risk, strong wind or maintenance — check its status before riding.

The road

Smooth tarmac with many curves, low walls and rock-fall protection. Watch for cyclists and for drivers stopping suddenly at viewpoints.

Riding tips

• It is a toll road; motorcycles pay a reduced toll at the plaza.
• Late afternoon light is the best for photos.
• Strong south-easterly wind (the "Cape Doctor") can be dangerous on the exposed corners.