Directions

Velddrif, Western Cape, South Africa

Essentially Port Owen is as its name suggests - a port, with a marina and the accompanying lifestyle. A series of admittedly pretty cabanas and apartments would have a little to recommend them but a resort type feel, if it weren't for the surrounding wetlands and bird sanctuary that prevent it from being so. Instead a vlei and a network of canals give boats access to both the sea and the river, and boats of all descriptions are moored here, giving the marina a real feeling of peace and stillness. Rowing along the 3.2 kilometres of private canals comes close to making this a little piece of heaven.

Getting there:

From Cape Town via R27:

Follow R27 from Cape Town for about 120 km to Velddrif.

After crossing Carinus Bridge, turn left at stop street into Voortrekker Road (R399).

After 1 km, turn left into Port Owen Drive at the Port Owen Resort sign.

Follow the road for 1 km to the security gate of Admiral Island.

You will be signed in at the security desk by your host that will accompany you to the property.