Clarence Drive (R44)
The False Bay coastal drive from Gordon's Bay to Rooi Els — the most beautiful road in the Western Cape outside Chapman's Peak.
Trip Role
Ideal stay
Best for
Our take
Clarence Drive is a high-stakes, high-reward coastal road that rivals the best in the country. It is a raw, cliff-hugging experience that demands your full attention while delivering constant, dramatic views of the False Bay coastline.
Clarence Drive is a high-stakes, high-reward coastal road that rivals the best in the country. It is a raw, cliff-hugging experience that demands your full attention while delivering constant, dramatic views of the False Bay coastline.
- Trip Role
- Day Trip
- Ideal Stay
- three to five hours, including stops
- Best For
- coastal scenery, whale watching, quiet beach towns, fynbos, photography
- Skip If
- nervous drivers, people in a hurry, large tour buses
- Go If
- You are a driver who enjoys technical, winding roads and wants to see the coast without the commercial polish or toll fees of other famous routes. It suits those who value scenery over speed.
Why it's worth your time
The False Bay coastal road — mountains, sea, and whales, the Western Cape's most beautiful drive besides Chapman's Peak.
What we love
The road feels untamed and exposed. Unlike more manicured routes, you are often alone with the wind, the steep mountain slopes, and the crashing ocean. The lack of heavy commercial infrastructure makes the small, unmarked pull-offs feel like personal discoveries rather than designated tourist traps.
What to know
The road is prone to rockfalls and mudslides, especially after heavy rain, which can lead to sudden closures or stop-and-go traffic. Always check local road reports before departing. Baboons are common along the route; keep your windows closed and never feed them, as they can become aggressive and create significant hazards for passing vehicles.
The full guide
The route and direction
The drive runs along the R44 between Gordon's Bay and Kleinmond. While you can drive it in either direction, starting in Gordon's Bay and heading east toward Kleinmond keeps the ocean on your left, making it easier to pull into the designated viewpoints without crossing oncoming traffic. The route is roughly 48 kilometres long. If you are coming from Cape Town, allow at least 45 minutes just to reach the start of the drive in Gordon's Bay. Do not attempt this route in the dark, as the lack of lighting and the presence of wildlife make it dangerous. Plan to complete the entire stretch during daylight hours to ensure you can navigate the curves safely and actually see the landscape you came to experience.
Road conditions and safety
This is a narrow, winding mountain road with 77 bends and significant gradients. The surface is paved, but the road is exposed to strong coastal winds that can affect vehicle handling. There are steep drop-offs and, in many sections, no barriers between the road and the cliff edge. You must maintain a moderate speed and stay within your lane, as the road is tight and often shared with cyclists. If you encounter baboons, do not stop or exit your vehicle. Keep moving slowly until you are well past the troop. Be prepared for stop-and-go traffic if roadworks are in progress, as the route is frequently subject to maintenance due to its vulnerability to weather-related damage like rockfalls and erosion.
Timing your visit
The best time to drive is early morning. The sun rises behind the Hottentots Holland mountains, which reduces glare on the water and provides the best light for spotting whales between July and November. Midday light can be harsh and flatten the scenery, making it less ideal for photography. Avoid weekends if you want to escape the crowds, as the pull-offs fill up quickly with local traffic. If you are visiting during the winter months, be aware that rain is frequent and can lead to sudden road closures. Always check the latest status from the Western Cape government before you leave, especially if there has been recent heavy weather. If the wind is particularly strong, consider delaying your trip, as the gusts along the cliffside can be intense.
Before you book
Questions Clarence Drive (R44) always raises
- Can I see whales from the road?
- Yes. Between July and November, southern right whales are frequently spotted from the elevated roadside viewpoints. You do not need to leave your car to see them, though pulling over at a designated spot provides a much better vantage point across the bay.
- Is the road safe for small cars?
- The road is fully paved and suitable for standard passenger vehicles. However, because it is narrow and winding with steep drops, you must drive cautiously. Ensure your brakes and tyres are in good condition before starting the drive, as the constant curves require frequent, controlled braking.
- Are there places to stop for food?
- There are several small coastal towns along the route, including Rooi Els, Pringle Bay, and Betty's Bay. These villages offer cafes and restaurants where you can stop for coffee or a meal. It is best to plan your stops in advance, as options are limited once you are on the open road.
- What should I do if the road is closed?
- If the R44 is closed due to rockfalls or maintenance, you must use the inland N2 route. Never attempt to bypass road closure signs or barriers, as they are placed for your safety. Check the Western Cape government website or local traffic updates for the latest information.