De Grendel
Steeped in history, De Grendel, whose Dutch name signifies “latch” or “lock,” is a venerable Cape Town estate. For centuries, it has graced the fynbos-covered slopes of Tygerberg Hill, now encompassing nearly 330 hectares. Perched 350 meters above sea level, the farm boasts arguably the Cape winelands’ most breathtaking vista of Table Mountain. On clear days, the panoramic view extends from Table Bay to False Bay, and sometimes even to the distant Cape Point.
Its story began in 1720 when Governor van der Stel granted the land to Danish settler Claas Mayboom. In 1890, the iconic South African businessman and politician Sir David De Villiers Graaff acquired De Grendel van de Tijgerberg. Initially intended as a haven for his prized purebred Arab horses, purchased during travels in Argentina, the farm’s drier climate proved essential after the horses struggled in the dampness of his Newlands home, Fernwood. Legend has it that a less-than-pleasant trip to Muizenberg, marred by a strong southeaster and debris-filled beaches, prompted Sir David to turn north, where he discovered and fell in love with the Tygerberg farm, recognizing it as the ideal stabling for his beloved steeds.
