The Western Cape’s beauty and lifestyle continue to draw visitors from across the globe — but for many, a short stay sparks a long-term commitment. From Durbanville’s wine trails to Hermanus’s whale-watching coast, tourism has a direct influence on property demand, turning visitors into homeowners, investors, and tenants.
Here’s a closer look at how some of the Cape’s most sought-after regions are benefitting from this powerful link between travel and real estate.
Greyton – Heritage Homes & Year-Round Visitors
“Visitors arrive for a weekend and end up staying for life. Greyton’s heritage cottages, mountain trails and vibrant markets make it one of the Cape’s most authentic lifestyle villages.” Monique Hess — Greeff Christie’s Greyton.
Greyton’s character-filled cottages and mountain scenery attract steady tourism, which underpins reliable property interest. Rentals remain strong during peak seasons, while international attention supports market stability. Its thriving events calendar and close-knit community give Greyton year-round appeal, drawing both lifestyle buyers and investors.
Whale Coast – Whale Watching & Coastal Living
“Visitors often fall in love with Hermanus during whale season and return as buyers. Homes that combine views, walkability and easy maintenance are performing exceptionally well.” Jaco van der Merwe — Greeff Christie’s Whale Coast.
Tourism growth translates directly into property demand along the Whale Coast. Buyers focus on sea-view apartments, lock-up-and-go estates, and lifestyle farms in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Short-term rentals achieve high yields during peak whale season, while eco-tourism and lifestyle infrastructure continue to support long-term values.
Stellenbosch & Franschhoek – The Winelands Surge
“The Cape Winelands lifestyle is a powerful drawcard — tourism keeps global attention on our towns and underpins property values.” Aimee Campbell — Greeff Christie’s Stellenbosch & Franschhoek
Events and attractions continue to boost visitor numbers, directly impacting property demand. International buyers favour vineyard estates and heritage homes, while
Stellenbosch’s strong student rental market and Franschhoek’s thriving culinary tourism create diverse opportunities for investors. Planned infrastructure upgrades and luxury hospitality developments further enhance the region’s long-term appeal.
Helderberg – Secure Estates & Coastal Growth
“From wine estates to golf courses, the Helderberg offers visitors a taste of the lifestyle — and many turn that experience into ownership.” Rudo Kirsten — Greeff Christie’s Helderberg
Somerset West and its surrounds are thriving as tourism rebounds. Buyer demand is focused on secure estates, vineyard-view homes, and lock-up-and-go apartments, with international purchasers active once again. Strong rental yields near Strand Beach and Erinvale Golf Estate attract investors, while lifestyle relocations from Gauteng and abroad reinforce long-term confidence.
Durbanville – Wine, Trails & Steady Rental Appeal
“Durbanville’s quality of life — with wine farms, mountain-bike trails and open space — remains the anchor for families and investors. Demand for long-term rentals continues to outpace short-term holiday lets.”
Joe van Rooyen — Greeff Christie’s Durbanville
Durbanville’s lifestyle assets keep its property market resilient, with families and investors alike drawn to its schools, access to business hubs, and strong sense of community. Long-term rentals consistently outperform short-term lets, making the area a stable choice for investors and a popular relocation destination for families moving to the Northern Suburbs.
Constantia Upper – Tradition Meets Contemporary Comfort
“Constantia Upper is a rare blend: wine estates, top schools, heritage homes and modern comforts. Buyers aren’t just purchasing property — they’re investing in a lifestyle.” Pepita Mace & Lynne Baker — Greeff Christie’s Cape Town
Buyers here are drawn to leafy lanes, stately Cape Dutch homes, and sleek modern builds. Energy resilience, top-tier security, and flexible living spaces are high on the wish list, while executive rentals remain buoyed by corporate relocations and the film industry. Constantia’s unique mix of wine estates, fine dining, and access to top schools continues to secure its reputation as one of Cape Town’s most prestigious addresses.
Across the Western Cape, tourism remains one of property’s greatest allies. From vineyards to coastlines, visitors often become investors, ensuring long-term resilience in every market.
