Fresnaye

• Province: Western Cape
• Coordinates 33°55′30″S “18°23′15″E
• Area; 0.73 km2
• Municipality; City of Cape Town

Fresnaye is an affluent residential suburb on the Atlantic Seaboard of Cape Town. It lies on the lower slopes of Lion’s Head between the suburbs of Sea Point and Bantry Bay. The area sits above the coastal road running along the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its hillside position, which provides views across Table Bay. Fresnaye is located just a few kilometres from the Cape Town city centre and forms part of the densely developed Atlantic Seaboard residential belt.

History of Fresnaye

Fresnaye, formerly known as Winterslust, sits on the slopes of Lion’s Head between Sea Point and Bantry Bay. The area’s history dates back to the 19th century, when it formed part of a large 1-kilometre-square estate owned by French aristocrat Jacques de Waal. The name “Fresnaye” comes from the French word for ash trees, “fresne,” which refers to the ash trees that once grew in the area.

At the time, there was just a farmhouse and one other building on the mountain slopes, that and ‘Heeren Huis’ near Bantry Bay, which was built in 1776. The farmhouse was surrounded by vineyards and orchards

Many of the street names in Fresnaye reflect its Huguenot heritage.

During the early colonial period, Fresnaye and its surroundings served as agricultural lands. Over time, the estate was subdivided into smaller plots, which developers transformed into an affluent residential neighbourhood. The suburb attracted upper-class residents of Cape Town who sought its scenic views, pleasant climate, and proximity to the city centre.

The local architectural landscape features a mix of Victorian, Edwardian, and modern styles, showing its evolution from a 19th-century estate to a contemporary, upscale suburb. Many grand old homes with elaborate designs and expansive gardens stand alongside modern developments.

In the 20th century, Fresnaye continued to draw affluent families, earning a reputation for its quiet, leafy streets and luxurious homes. Today, it remains a highly desirable residential area, famous for its stunning ocean views, proximity to Cape Town’s city centre, and a blend of historic and modern architecture. Fresnaye’s rich history and timeless appeal make it one of Cape Town’s most prestigious neighbourhoods

The postal code for Fresnaye is 8005

Transport

Fresnaye is served by MyCiTi Bus,  Golden Arrow Bus Services, and minibus taxis. See linked pages for details. Other options for getting around the Western Cape.

Browse businesses and places to visit in Fresnaye

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Useful numbers

Residents and visitors can find important local contact numbers below, including police, medical services, utilities, and community facilities

• Emergency Services

• Police: Saps Sea Point-021 430 3700
• Fire: 0860 103 089
• Ambulance: 10177

• Medical

• Closest hospital/clinic; Somerset Hospital-021 402 6911
• Pharmacy; Petries Pharmacy Sea Point-021 434 1858

• Municipal & Utilities

• Water: 0860 103 089
• Electricity: 0860 103 089

• Transport & Roads

• Traffic Department: Gallows Hill Traffic Department-0860 103 089

• Community & Safety

• NSRI 087 094 9774
• 24-hour Poisons Information Helpline of the Western Cape:  0861 555 777.
• Childline South Africa: 116
• SPCA: Cape of Good Hope SPCA-021 700 4140

• Local Contacts and Community Resources 

• Ratepayers Association: 083 3888 226
• Post office; Sea Point Post Office-021 434 2315
• Library; Sea Point-023 348 2600

• Schools 

• The Closest schools are in Seapoint
  

Other suburbs along the Atlantic Seaboard are: Camp’s Bay, Green Point, Sea Point, Mouille Point, Fresnaye, Bakoven, Clifton, Bantry Bay, Hout Bay

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