Bellville, Western Cape

Bellville - 7493 

Introduction 

Bellville is a suburb of Cape Town, South Africa, located in the Northern Suburbs region. Originally an independent city, it was later incorporated into the City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality. Bellville is known for its industrial and commercial significance, as well as being a major transportation hub within the greater Cape Town metropolitan area. The suburb is set amongst the Tygerberg Hills, offering views over the Cape Fold Mountains. 

Features 

Bellville offers a variety of features that make it an attractive place to live and visit. The area is home to the Bracken Nature Reserve, which preserves threatened Cape Flats Sand Fynbos and Swartland Granite Renosterveld vegetation. Bellville also boasts the Bellville Golf Club, the Tyger Valley Shopping Centre, and the Bellville Velodrome, which hosts various sporting and entertainment events. The Elsies River runs through Bellville, adding to the suburb's natural beauty. 

History 

Bellville was established in 1861 and was originally known as "12 Mile Post" because it is located 12 miles from Cape Town city center. It was first known as "Hardekraaltjie" and was founded as a railway station on the line from Cape Town to Stellenbosch and Strand. The suburb was renamed Bellville in 1861 after the surveyor-general Charles Bell. Over the years, Bellville has grown into a bustling suburb with a rich history and a vibrant community. 

Climate 

Bellville experiences a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The average annual temperature is around 16.7°C. Summers, from December to February, can reach up to 26.7°C, while winters, from June to August, can drop to around 12°C. The area receives most of its rainfall during the winter months, with June being the wettest month. 

Property Market 

The property market in Bellville includes a mix of apartments, townhouses, and houses. The area is attractive for both first-time buyers and investors, with opportunities for rental properties, including Airbnb. Recent trends show steady growth in property values, particularly in areas close to amenities and transportation hubs. Popular residential areas include Boston, Oakdale, and Welgemoed. Investment opportunities are abundant, with high demand for properties in prime locations and developments offering modern amenities. 

Suburbs 

Bellville consists of several neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. These include Boston, Oakdale, Bellville South, Bellville Central, Tyger Valley, Welgemoed, Loevenstein, Ridgeworth, and Protea Valley. These suburbs offer a range of residential options and amenities, contributing to the overall appeal of the region. 

Proximity to Key Points 

Bellville is conveniently located near key points such as the Cape Town CBD, Northern Suburbs, Cape Town International Airport, and the Cape Town Harbour. The area is well-connected by major arterials, including the N1 and N7 highways, making it easy to access surrounding areas and popular destinations. The Cape Town CBD is approximately 23 kilometers away, while the airport is about 13 kilometers from Bellville. 

Schools 

Bellville is home to several schools, providing quality education to the community. Notable institutions include Bellville High School, D.F. Malan High School, The Settlers High School, and Stellenberg High School. These schools offer a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities, catering to the educational needs of the community. 

Healthcare 

Healthcare facilities in Bellville include the Karl Bremer Hospital, Mediclinic Louis Leipoldt, and Melomed Bellville. The area is well-served by healthcare professionals, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care. 

Recreational Facilities 

Bellville offers various recreational facilities, including the Bellville Golf Club, Bellville Swimming Pool, and the Bellville Sports Ground. The Bellville Swimming Pool features a main pool, diving pool, and kiddies pool, while the Bellville Sports Ground has facilities for a variety of sports, including bowls, hockey, and soccer. 

Safety 

Bellville is considered a safe suburb with a proactive community and local law enforcement working together to maintain safety. Neighborhood watch programs and security measures contribute to the overall sense of security in the area. 

Transport 

The transport infrastructure in Bellville is well-developed, with minimal congestion. The area is served by public transport options, including buses and taxis, making it easy for residents to commute to work or other destinations. The proximity to major highways also facilitates convenient travel to other parts of Cape Town. 

Community and Lifestyle 

The community in Bellville is vibrant and diverse, with a strong sense of togetherness. Residents enjoy a high quality of life, with access to excellent amenities, recreational activities, and cultural events. The lifestyle in Bellville is a blend of modern convenience and traditional charm, making it an attractive place to live. 

Religious Institutes 

Bellville is home to a variety of religious institutions catering to different beliefs and religions. The Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, located at the corner of Rhos and Welgemeend Streets, serves the local Catholic community. The Carmelite Monastery, situated on Saasveld Street, provides a place for contemplative prayer and worship. The Bellville Presbyterian Church, found on 18 Glanville Road, offers regular services and community outreach programs. The Bellville Mosque, located on Voortrekker Road, serves the Muslim community with daily prayers and religious education. The Bellville Methodist Church, situated on 2nd Avenue, is known for its welcoming environment and various community services. 

Nightlife 

Bellville offers a vibrant nightlife with several popular restaurants and pubs. The Hussar Grill Willowbridge, located in the Willowbridge Shopping Centre, is renowned for its steaks and fine dining experience. The Copper Club Eatery, situated on Carl Cronje Drive, offers a relaxed atmosphere with great burgers and drinks. The Hollow Tree, found on Old Oak Road, is a favorite spot for its gin on tap and loaded chips. The Cattle Baron Tyger Waterfront, located on Tyger Falls Boulevard, is known for its succulent steaks and waterfront views. The Bloemhof, situated on Bloemhof Street, provides a cozy setting with excellent quality food. 

Shops 

Bellville boasts a variety of shopping options. The Tyger Valley Shopping Centre, located on Willie van Schoor Avenue, offers a wide range of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. The Bellville Mall, situated at the intersection of Voortrekker Road and Bill Bezuidenhout Road, provides a selection of convenience-oriented stores. The Willowbridge Shopping Centre, found on Carl Cronje Drive, features high-end fashion stores and a variety of dining options. The Middestad Mall, located on Charl Malan Street, offers a range of retail stores and services. The Spar Kasselsvlei, situated on Kasselsvlei Road, provides quality groceries and household items. 

Popular Complexes 

Bellville features several popular residential complexes. The Block Estate, located in Bellville, is a secure and well-maintained complex with modern amenities and easy access to public transport. The Tyger Waterfront, situated on Tyger Falls Boulevard, offers luxury apartments with stunning views and convenient access to shopping and dining options. The Welgedacht Estate, found in the northern suburbs, provides spacious homes with beautiful surroundings and secure living. The Kanonberg Lifestyle Estate, located near the Durbanville Wine Valley, offers luxury homes with access to a range of amenities. The Bellville Ridge, situated on the Tygerberg Hills, provides modern apartments with scenic views and easy access to local amenities.