East Fort. A hike on Chapmans

Peak

East Fort is the remains of a fortification found on the Northern slopes of Chapmans Peak Drive. The fort was originally built in the 1780’s by French merceneries in the declining years of the Dutch East Indies company. Since then it was used by both French and British occupiers until being abandoned in 1826.

The remains are found some 5 minutes walk from the road. You pass through Hout Bay and follow the signs for Chapmans Peak Drive. Follow the road around a couple of hairpin bends and look for a largish parking area on your right. (If you get to the toll gate you have gone too far) Once parked look out over the sea towards Hout Bay Harbour. The view is magnificent and you can see the first remains of the fort perched on the rocks overlooking the Bay.

The remains of East Fort, from the parking area

The remains of East Fort, from the parking area

 To see the rest of the fort you take the small path leading up towards the mountain. It is well signed and the path clear.

The path to East Fort is well signed

The path to East Fort is well signed

 The remains of the fort are quite distinct and impressive. Even better are the views of both the mountain and the Bay from there.

East Fort, with the mountains behind

Although the fort can be viewed after a 2 minute walk. The paths behind the fort lead to several routes up the mountain behind. So it is a good starting or ending point to a hike.