The scenic suburb of Clovelly is hidden away behind the Kalk Bay mountain slopes, and overlooks Fish Hoek and the Silvermine Valley. The suburb was originally established as a fertile vegetable garden, supplying ships anchoring in Simons Town and was then called Klein Tuin which means Little Garden. Clovelly is today a quaint and quiet suburb consisting of just a few hundred houses. It is actually so quiet that it has managed to remain a well-kept secret, not even many Capetonians known where it is! The lower boundary of Clovelly is marked by the Silvermine River, which is surrounded by a wetland nature reserve. This haven for waterbirds is packed with indigenous reeds and other gems unique to the Cape Floral Kingdom, and has a network of boardwalks perfect for visitors to go for a gentle stroll.
Attractions
The soft white sands of Clovelly Beach have been the starting point for relaxing morning and evening strolls around the Fish Hoek bay for generations and a small offshore ridge gives junior surfers a perfect little practice wave. Clovelly Beach provides a peaceful alternative to the busy Fish Hoek side of the bay.
Considered as one of the finest golf courses in South Africa, Clovelly Country Club is famous for its rolling, computer-irrigated fairways and undulating holes complementing its rich coastal environment. The club is set in the pristine and tranquil Silvermine Valley close to Fish Hoek, and offers its members and visitors a memorable experience. The Silvermine River, natural sand dunes and trees line the fairways with water features and a wide variety of birdlife such as guinea fowl, pheasant and steppe buzzards. Adjoining the club house is a pro shop, restaurant and driving range.
The Clovelly Wetland Walk undulates through a wonderful example of restored wetlands in an urban setting, which is a haven for various forms of wildlife, most notably birds. Visitors can enjoy a nice walk amongst this natural ecosystem. The walk is easy enough for beginners and kids, and is well marked and fun. To make sure you see all the wildlife in the wetlands, dont forget to bring your binoculars.