Belvedere Cottages

Regarded as one of the more historic suburbs in central Port Elizabeth, Richmond Hill is at once peaceful and interesting.

Some of the houses here still have original wooden fretwork on display on their eaves, and include quaint Victorian cottages and buildings that date back to the late 1800s. Any hint of falling out of favour with local residents has been wiped out as the pretty blend of Victorian and Old Edwardian semi-detached and freestanding cottages in Richmond Hill, with fireplaces and some magnificent examples of chandeliers are now actively being sought out. Set at the base of the hill after which it is named, now trendy Richmond Hill also offers, to those staying further up the hill, some incredible opportunities to view sun rise - particularly from Callington Street, or looking down Stanley Street over Algoa Bay - and the last of a dying breed of family owned corner grocers and neighbourhood cafés (if you’re lucky enough to spot the one or two that remain).

In short, Richmond Hill is a portion of the city in which time has stood still, and, if you’re prepared to slow down enough to explore on foot or bicycle, will reward with some fascinating finds - make sure you head up to see the Old Erica Building built in 1903. Not only is the building worth a look, but the views from here are spectacular. Likened to Melville in Johannesburg, Richmond Hill is not a stranger to the odd trendy decor style shop and upmarket restaurant.