My wife and I moved into Fernbridge on 19 November 2020 after having sold our home which we occupied for 43 years. Living in a community retirement environment was going to be a totally new experience for us but we were comforted by your assurance that it was not an old age home but an independent living facility.
When considering relocation, one obviously must take into consideration expenses and when we compared what the cost of the monthly levy for Fernbridge was against what we were paying for our home, we were pleasantly surprised to find that the levy was approximately 40% less.
We have thoroughly enjoyed our stay so far which is made possible by the excellent caring, efficient and friendly staff from the manager to the domestic staff. The complex provides wonderful facilities which are well maintained and when it comes to maintenance in our apartment, we are spoilt down to a simple task like replacing a light bulb. I recently had a medical emergency and was impressed with the efficient and professional way the emergency facility was activated and with the assistance provided by Glenda to the paramedics to facilitate my admission to hospital.
There are an interesting variety of activities for all in the complex which are not always taken advantage of. The residents in the complex are all very friendly and while we are still getting to know many of them, you are made to feel as being part of the community. There is an active representative committee looking after the interests of all residents who are kept informed of all issues affecting them. Covid has had the effect of limiting interaction between residents but hopefully things will improve so that there is more socialising.
Our overall experience of living at Fernbridge has been most fulfilling and exceeded our expectations and we look forward to spending the rest of our time here.

I moved into Trianon Retirement Village December 1st 2014, after seven years I feel that I certainly made the right decision. The gardens are great to walk in and kept well. The staff are always ready to help, the food on the whole is good. We are family in a way. There are many activities for those that want to join in and privacy if that is you want. A church service and bible studies are also available weekly, clubs meet for knitting, carpet bowls for all those that wish to join in. Manageress Mrs Donna Howe is available if we have any issues to discuss. To summarize it all I feel I have certainly made the right decision choosing Trianon as an example of this, when it rains I don’t have to worry about a leaky roof.

On 2 August I stepped through the doors of Fairmead a bit apprehensive of what’s to be. I tried hard to be positive.
My first challenge was ‘isolation’. Covid restrictions required that I isolate for 10 days and this was one of the most difficult tasks.
After isolation I was befriended by one of the committee members for 2 weeks. She kindly schooled me into daily routine and Fairmead rules.
I have joined the knitting club which consists of 12 ladies. I always look forward to our Monday gatherings. I have also tried my hand of Rummi-kub but a ‘newby’ cannot outdo the experts.
We go on monthly outings and have been to the West Coast Reserve, Houtbay and Blaauwberg. Thanks to our skilful driver for transporting us.
From my room I have an amazing view of the mountain with UCT below. A picturesque sight. In our grounds is a most beautiful garden with various shrubs and plants. The rose garden outdoing them all. In the pond close by are some koi. I enjoy walking in this area daily.
After 6 months at Fairmead I have settled in well. Thanks to all who made this possible.

I originally lived in P.E. (born and bred) and came to Cape Town on the death of my husband. Knowing no-one except my daughter and family. I was looking for a retirement village to settle into and chose Trianon which is under the CPOA umbrella. I moved to a newly decorated flat with views of the well-kept and attractive gardens and settled down making friends through the many social events, which take place on a weekly basis. The kindness and efficiency of the staff and the manager was very helpful and welcoming made, it easy to settle in. We have a well-organized dining room and my health and energy (I am 83) are a testimony to the well-balanced and nutritious lunches we enjoy. I would sincerely recommend any facility that falls part of the CPOA family for a happy, safe and carefree lifestyle that we all deserve as we gracefully drift into our retirement years.

My move into Unit 108 at Fernbridge on 7 January 2022 was seamless. The Manager and Staff were on hand to guide the process. A lift was reserved for us and the padded curtains had been hung in the lift prior to our arrival.

After the removers’ departure, assistance was available to solve any problems (in my case, computer and TV problems) I had or to lend a hand with moving heavy items, etc.

Fernbridge is a well-run establishment with friendly, helpful, hardworking staff that go the extra mile not only to be of assistance, but keeping everything spotless. It feels as if one is coming home when you enter the building.

I could not have chosen a better place than Fernbridge to spend my latter years.

Having lived on the West Coast for a long time, moving into the centre of the city was a wonderful change. There are so many advantages to being in a village like this – lock up ‘n go, 24 hour security, new and interesting people to get to know and all the services we could want or need. The staff are amazing – they all seem to have a ‘can do’ attitude. We’re so enthusiastic about living here that our friends want to buy here as well. I have found that Berghof’s proximity to theatres, shopping centres, hospitals, buses, the mountain and even the seaside has made it an ideal place to retire to.

As a resident of the Rathfelder, I can enjoy living in a safe, secure environment surrounded by well tended gardens. Mealtimes also provide the opportunity to interact with other residents and make friends.

I have been at Fairmead since June 2021 after moving here from another CPOA complex. Since day one I was welcomed by friendly residents, caring competent staff and enjoyed the luxury of all daily meals. Security and comfort are a priority here.

The convenience of being close to several shopping preferences makes for easy living, including on site CPOA transport to assist residents a couple of times during the week when shopping is necessary. Nearby Vitacare Pharmacy takes care of most of the residents’ medical requirements.

From my sunny room I can enjoy looking onto our beautiful garden below, including an amazing view of UCT and Table Mountain. I am very happy to be here and know that Fairmead is perfect for me.

What can I say about Berghof Retirement Village! I’ve loved being here from the moment I moved in, in mid 2018. The location – right in the middle of the city bowl with all its various benefits, a stunning view of the magical Table Mountain, a sweet garden with our own river that runs through it, staff who are such a blessing – each and everyone of them! And management , Razier and Elisabeth who must certainly be some sort of angels in disguise. So what’s not to love. Mostly I love the independent living aspect of Berghof – I have my own “home” and I can do what I like. I can mingle with the residents – or not! We have activities on a regular basis which for now I don’t partake in a lot – but 5 years from now – just watch me. Anyone who “dis-likes” the idea of an “old-age-home” must come and have a look for themselves. That IS NOT what we have here at Berghof! In doubt – well then, come over to flat no 401 and see for yourself.

Ease of living at Rathfelder Village – An unknown hidden gem for retirement life. Security, beautiful gardens and proximity to all of Cape Town. Make me highly recommended living here.

It took me over a year, to make up my mind about moving to Kronendal. I don’t know why it took me so long, as I could not be happier. The staff, especially Nkosi are just amazing. That includes the security guards and kitchen staff. The grounds are just beautiful, well kept, with views of the mountains, and short drive to all shops, doctors or the beach. I had a brief concern once when I thought my trousers had shrunk in the wash, but I soon realized it was my expanding waist line, due to the delicious lunches we receive. I am so happy to have moved here and have made new friends. I never thought life could be this good. Kronenal Retirement Village Resident

Coming to Fairmead and adjusting to living in one room was a huge adjustment for me.
I’m here because I was no longer well enough to care for myself and have come to appreciate all the care and attention I am receiving.
My blood pressure taken daily, my medication provided weekly and my meals brought to my room when I don’t feel well enough to go to the dining room. Also to have my laundry done weekly.
I have found the staff always to be helpful and pleasant.