This energetic little town, 18 miles from Cape Town and six miles from Bellville Station, lies at the heart of a thriving farming community. Its annual harvests of oats and wheat from the Koeberg and Tygerberg plains alone generate significant trade and economic activity.
Reliable yearly rainfall allows farmers to produce a wide variety of crops, but agriculture is not Durbanville’s only source of prosperity. The town is also known for its mineral springs flowing from Tygerberg Mountain. A well-known mineral water factory, located halfway between Bellville and Durbanville, pipes water from the mountain, aerates it, and bottles it for sale. On the opposite side of the mountain, another famous mineral spring follows a similar process, with its source and factory also situated close to Durbanville.
Given these natural advantages, it is no surprise that Durbanville’s own water supply is excellent. The town has an abundant supply, and each resident receives around 100 gallons a day at a cost of only £2 a year. The Town Council even earns a profit from selling water.
The district is known for its healthy climate, making it an appealing option for people needing rest or recovery who cannot afford to travel farther away. Visitors would also find something often missing in remote health retreats: a cheerful atmosphere. Durbanville’s friendly and upbeat character is one of its defining features.
The town has a popular and well-managed Home of Rest for Invalids, along with three hotels, one of which has served visitors for many years.
Durbanville is also home to extensive carriage and wagon works, producing vehicles that have earned a strong reputation across the Colony.
A wide variety of fruit grows successfully in local gardens and on nearby farms, with special attention given to cultivating quality wine grapes.
For tourists, the surrounding mountain scenery offers some truly beautiful views.
