Retreat Area Guide

Stacey Kindler, Commercial Property Broker

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Area Overview

Introduction

Retreat, nestled at the base of the Constantiaberg Mountains in Cape Town's southern suburbs, is a vibrant area known for its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities. Surrounded by stunning landscapes and featuring a tight-knit, diverse community, Retreat appeals to residents and businesses alike. Its strategic location and rapidly growing industrial sector make it an excellent choice for established businesses looking to thrive in an area with high demand for industrial and warehousing space.

History

Retreat’s name has a distinctive origin, dating back to the Dutch forces’ retreat into this area after facing British advances during the Battle of Muizenberg. Today, Retreat preserves its historical charm, with buildings dating back to the 17th century, including landmarks like St. Mary's Church with its Cape Dutch architecture. The area also played a key role in South Africa’s anti-apartheid movement, and its rich heritage contributes to the community’s pride and cultural significance.

Location and Accessibility

Located about 25 kilometers from Cape Town's city center, Retreat offers quick access to the city while maintaining a suburban charm. The M3 and M5 roadways provide direct routes to the broader Cape Town area, making it ideal for businesses requiring efficient transport links to the CBD, Cape Town International Airport, and major highways.

Proximity to Essential Services

  • Retail and Shopping: The area in proximity home to shopping centres such as Blue Route Mall and Constantia Village Shopping Centre, offering an extensive range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment facilities, ensuring that residents and employees in the area have access to essential amenities.
  • Healthcare Facilities: Retreat has numerous healthcare facilities nearby, including hospitals and clinics, providing accessible medical care for residents and the local workforce.
  • Education: Retreat is close to quality educational institutions like Sweet Valley Primary and Bergvliet High, making it a convenient choice for families.

 

Environment and Quality of Life

Local parks, green spaces, and the Silvermine Nature Reserve allow residents and visitors to enjoy natural surroundings. Community initiatives, including neighborhood clean-ups and youth programs, contribute to a high quality of life and community cohesion in Retreat.

Industrial Growth and Business Opportunities

Retreat Industrial is a small but growing industrial node within Cape Town's Southern Suburbs. With an array of warehouses and industrial spaces available, the area is becoming increasingly attractive for established businesses and new ventures alike, particularly in fields like manufacturing, distribution, and logistics. The industrial spaces in Retreat offer highly sought-after features, including 3-phase power supply, clearance height, roller shutters, and options for both dock-high and grade-level loading. Its proximity to major highways ensures seamless connectivity to Cape Town’s CBD, the airport, and main trade routes, benefiting businesses that rely on efficient transportation and distribution networks.

The area boasts a total of 181 land parcels, with 56% (102 parcels) dedicated to economic activity, currently housing 282 enterprises. The presence of diverse businesses, from textile factories and distribution centres to motor repair shops, has fostered a robust local economy and provided local job opportunities.

Industrial Space and Logistics Benefits

Industrial and warehouse spaces in Retreat cater to businesses with diverse requirements, including:

  • Electrical Power Availability: Many facilities provide a 3-phase power supply, and backup generators are common to mitigate power outages.
  • Clearance Heights: Warehouses in Retreat vary in clearance and often feature high-clearance roller shutter doors to support efficient loading and unloading.
  • Loading Facilities: Options include dock-high loading and grade-level docking, facilitating various loading requirements.
  • Secure Parking: Many spaces offer on-site parking and security, ensuring peace of mind for business owners and employees.