Robbins Island is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Cape Town. Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers visitors an unparalleled natural beauty and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. With a long history dating back to the early 1800s, it is one of the oldest settlements on the Cape Peninsula.
Robbins Island has an interesting past that makes it an interesting place to explore.
It is also home to a number of endangered species, such as the African penguin, the Cape fur seal, and the southern right whale. Make sure to visit Robbins Island when you are in Cape Town!
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All About Of Robbins Island
History
Robbins Island was first settled by the Dutch in 1806. It became a popular port for fishermen and traders, and it served as the headquarters for the administration of Cape Town.
The settlement eventually developed into a small town, with several farms surrounding it. However, Robbins Island’s importance diminished when Cape Town grew larger and more commercialised in the late 1800s. In 1993, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its unique natural heritage and history.
Climate
Today, Robbins Island retains much of its18th century charm. It is a small town with narrow streets and charming colonial-style homes. The churches and schools present a colourful array of architectural styles.
There are also several interesting historical sites to explore, such as the harbour quarter, which features old Dutch warehouses dating back to the 1800s. If you’re interested in history or nature, Robbins Island is definitely worth a visit!
Culture
The locals are friendly and welcoming, and they enjoy spending their time socialising in the town’s cafes and pubs. The community is active in organising festivals and events to celebrate their culture and heritage.
There is a lively arts scene too, with local artists creating colourful paintings, sculptures, jewellery designs, etc. If you’re looking for an authentic Cape experience away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Robbins Island is definitely worth a visit !
Meals & Lodging
There are several eateries and lodgings in the town, including The Dock House (a restaurant which uses local ingredients to prepare colourful dishes), Lloyd’s Boatyard Cafe (the perfect stop for a coffee or rest on your way between hiking trails), Main Street Bakery and Sweet Life Wine Lodge.
Many visitors arrive on the ferry from Cape Town, which sails every hour from 6am to midnight (approx. an eight-hour journey).
For accommodation, there are several guesthouses and self-catering establishments. The most popular options include the charming Port Harcourt Self Catering Backpackers – a homey hostel with beautiful “secret garden” on its rooftop;
The Quayside Restaurant/Boutique Hotel above a historical marina in Main Street; Ecosse Manor near miles of beaches, which offers exquisite luxury lodging experience (with room for up to 5 guests), and the magnificent.
The Gallery Guest House – a boutique guesthouse with beautiful garden, which offers stunning self-driving sunset views from its rooftop.
Activities
Hiking trails lead to vistas and the deep fjords on Robbins Island. There is also a nice nature trail around The Dungeon and historic buildings you can explore, such as St George’s Quarter (an area with an abundance of historical sights).
Gould House (a beautiful wooden estate from the late 1800s) Brunel Square , which features different cultural groups who perform traditional songs every evening at dusk; Princess House/Gould House is a cultural centre that hosts traditional and modern music, including jazz.
Since the early 1800s this has been the community’s meeting place; it now offers modern services such as accommodation, dining and arts workshops!
Tourism
Robbins Island is an ideal destination for tourists who are looking for a unique and picturesque experience away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The island is well known for its amazing natural beauty, with crystal-clear fjords, towering peaks, rolling hills and lush rainforest – perfect for hiking and exploring.
Robbins Island also offers some interesting old buildings to explore (including Main Street Bakery which dates back to 1868 !), musical shows and a picturesque kalaoa tuna fish factory.
Transport
A public passenger ferry connects the town with Victoria Island in Edmonton every 40 minutes, or departure times can be easily found online. The journey to and from Robbins Island takes around 30/40 mins.
The ferry terminal is located at the harbour in Victoria Island. Parking can be found on the island and also across from Main Street Bakery so you shouldn’t have any issues finding it!
If Visiting during school holidays, there are winter sports schools that operate with day trips for our young guests to learn about skiing and snowboarding.
Cuisine
Robbins Island is known for its succulent tuna fish and salmon, which are both locally caught. You can also find artisanal pizzas and fresh seafood at some of the restaurants on the island.
Flowers in the island’s wetlands are organically grown and also make a delightful display as they open during summer.
Wildlife
Robbins Island is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts. You’ll find native plants and animals, as well as introduced creatures such as deer and pigs, living peacefully side-by-side.
The island is also home to several seabirds (eg. albatrosses, petrels) which can be observed from the ferry or along the coastlines.
Wildlife meets can be organized through the community at festivals such as Hogmanay, which is held annually on New Years’ Day.
Conclusion
Robbins Island is a 16-acre island located in the East River in Manhattan, within the borough of Queens.
The island was originally part of the estate of Cornelius Vanderbilt II, who acquired it in 1903 for the purpose of building a private residence. The architect for the project was Stanford White.
After White’s death in 1906, construction was halted and the island remained undeveloped for several years. In 1922, it was purchased by John D. Rockefeller Jr., who had it developed into a private golf course. Today, Robbins Island is operated as a nature reserve and museum.
FAQs
1.What Is Robbins Island?
Ans: Robbins Island is an 16-acre island located in the East River in Manhattan, within the borough of Queens. It was originally part of the estate of Cornelius Vanderbilt II, who acquired it in 1903 for the purpose of building a private residence.
After White’s death in 1906, construction was halted and the island remained undeveloped for several years. In 1922, it was purchased by John D. Rockefeller Jr ., who had it developed into a private golf course.
2.What Size Is The Island?
Ans: The total land area of Robbins Island at its widest point measures 420 feet by 35 metres, which makes it approximately 1.5 square miles in size.
However, less than a third of the original landmass remains as Bird Island because most of this was lost to construction and development over time after being purchased by Rockefeller Jr . for his golf course.
3.How To Get To Robbins Island?
Ans: There is no public transportation that directly accesses Robbins Island. Visitors must first take the G train to Java Junction in Queens, and then walk or bike across a pedestrian bridge over the East River to reach the island.
4.Is Robbins Island Dangerous?
Ans: There is no evidence that Robbins Island is dangerous, and visitors should not be concerned about safety while on the island. However, as with any outdoor location, visitors should always use caution when hiking or biking around the island.
5.Can I Stay In The Island?
Ans: Unfortunately, due to the private nature of Robbins Island, visitors are not allowed to stay on the island.
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