Peers Cave
Peers Cave is an archaeological and historical site located in Fish Hoek, Cape Town. Situated on the slopes of the mountain overlooking Fish Hoek Bay, this cave is renowned for its significance in South Africa’s prehistory, particularly due to its well-preserved rock art and archaeological findings. In 1926 Victor Peers and his son Bertie came across a large cave on the sand dune ridge which at the time was known as Schildergat cave. They came across items they suspected to be artifacts and had them examined, their suspicions were then confirmed. The two were then trained in techniques to be used in an archaeological dig and began excavation on the cave in 1927. They found relics such as stone stools, spear heads, ostrich beads, shell pendants as well was the remains of a number of bodies. One of the skulls has been recorded as being 12000 years old and has been named, Fish Hoek Man. The cave was later named after the father and son team and became known as Peers Cave.
Historical and Archaeological Importance: Peers Cave is most notable for its ancient rock engravings, which date back thousands of years. These rock carvings are attributed to the indigenous San people, who inhabited the region long before European settlement. The cave’s art provides valuable insights into the cultural and spiritual practices of the San people, offering a glimpse into their lives and beliefs. The cave has been studied extensively, and its findings contribute to the understanding of prehistoric human activity in the Cape Peninsula.
Natural Features and Access: The cave is situated in a natural setting with dramatic views of Fish Hoek Bay and the surrounding landscape. It is nestled within a rugged, rocky area, which adds to its historical ambiance and isolation. Visitors can reach the cave by following a relatively easy hiking trail that offers scenic views of the coastline and nearby mountains. The site is accessible to those interested in both archaeology and nature, providing an opportunity to explore the intersection of natural beauty and historical significance.
Conservation and Respect: As a site of historical and cultural importance, Peers Cave is protected and conservation efforts are in place to preserve its rock art and archaeological features. Visitors are encouraged to respect the site by not touching or disturbing the rock engravings and by adhering to any guidelines provided by local authorities. The cave serves as a reminder of the rich and ancient history of the Cape Peninsula and offers an enriching experience for those interested in South Africa's prehistoric heritage.
For those interested in visiting the cave, you can still gain entrance but only after a tiring climb up the sand dunes which guard its entrance.
Accommodation Near Peers Cave
A Place In Thyme
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Fish Hoek
1.8km from Peers CaveSituated on the mountainside in Fish Hoek, A Place in Thyme offers accommodation in three separate units: the cottage (sleeps 5); Small Thyme (sleeps 2) and Big Thyme (sleeps 2 adults & 2 children; or 3 adults.) …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Dunvegan Lodge
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Cape Town
2.7km from Peers CaveDunvegan Lodge is set high upon the fynbos-covered slopes of Clovelly mountain, Fish Hoek and offers luxury self-catering accommodation in spacious sunny rooms, each with modern en-suite bathrooms, TV with satellite, telephone, hairdryer, safe and... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Upstairs @ No. 42
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Fish Hoek
2.8km from Peers CaveUPSTAIRS @ No. 42 is a real home from home with beautiful mountain views and conveniently appointed for a relaxing break. Drive into secure parking right at the entrance. Up the stairs you will find a lounge-dining-kitchen area - fully equipped with TV & …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
African Violet
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Cape Town
2.8km from Peers CaveSelf Catering Villas with uninterrupted views overlooking Noordhoek Valley to the Atlantic Ocean, offer privacy and comfort in a contemporary African setting. Bask in the African sun at the pool. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
A Tuscan Villa Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Fish Hoek
2.9km from Peers CaveBed and breakfast accommodation in Fish Hoek, Cape Town. The villa boasts 4 spacious en-suite rooms named according to the direction they face. While each room has its own special attributes all rooms have Posturepedic beds, 100% percale cotton linen... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Crags
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Fish Hoek
3.3km from Peers CaveCome and stay in one of the original farm buildings in Fish Hoek, Cape Town within a stone's throw of the beach. This self catering apartment (sleeps 6) provides spacious, well-appointed, up-market accommodation with magnificent views across False Bay. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Blue Yonder
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Fish Hoek
3.4km from Peers CaveBlue Yonder enjoys one of Fish Hoek's most enviable locations. Ideally situated on the mountain slope, these self catering apartments combine luxurious holiday accommodation with breathtaking views of the beach and sea. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Chartfield Guesthouse
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Cape Town
4.2km from Peers CaveChartfield Guesthouse in kalk Bay evokes the spirit of a time when everything was done with a little more style and with a lot more attention to detail. It's a haven created to whisk you away from the cares of the world the moment you step inside... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Moonglow Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Simon's Town
5km from Peers CaveMoonglow Guest House offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Glencairn, on the slopes of the Simon's Town Mountains overlooking False Bay.There are 6 well appointed ensuite bedrooms all with seaviews. 4 rooms have queen beds and all rooms have... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Plotsklaps Self Catering Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Tokai
5.3km from Peers CavePlotsklaps offers self catering cottage accommodation in Tokai, Cape Town. A superb family home situated on the slopes of Constantiaberg Mountains bordering Tokai Forests, wine producing vineyards and magnificent golf courses, and mountain walks. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
- Clovelly Golf Club - Fish Hoek, Cape Town (1.73km)
- Longbeach Mall (1.90km)
- Silvermine Nature Reserve (2.80km)
- Elsies Peak Hiking Trail - Glencairn, Fish Hoek (2.98km)
- Fish Hoek Beach - Cape Town (3.19km)
- Fish Hoek Beach Spring Splash - Cape Town (3.24km)
- Solole Game Reserve (3.30km)
- Noordhoek Farm Village (3.54km)
- Kalk Bay Harbour (4.24km)
- Kalk Bay Theatre (4.36km)
- Dalebrook Tidal Pool - Kalk Bay, Cape Town (4.57km)
- Glencairn Beach - Cape Peninsula (4.84km)
- The Red Herring Trading Post (4.85km)
- Westlake Golf Club (5.12km)
- St James Beach and Tidal Pool (5.20km)
- Noordhoek Beach (5.37km)
- Scratch Patch (5.57km)
- Camel Rides at Imhoff Farm - Kommetjie, Cape Town (6.10km)
- Imhoff Farm - Kommetjie, Cape Town (6.12km)
- Steenberg Golf Club (6.24km)
