Aurora
A charming village set against the Piketberg Mountains in the Sandveld. Aurora is situated midway between Piketberg (N7) and Velddrif (R27),
approximately 50km from both towns and a scenic 185km’s drive from Cape
Town. Aurora is known for its Sandveld houses, pretty town square and
kaleidoscopic fields of wildflowers in spring.
Citrusdal
Nestled on the banks of the Olifantsrivier, about 180 km, and less than two
hour’s drive from Cape Town on the N7, lies this bustling rural town, set
amongst citrus orchards and vineyards at the foothills of the majestic Cederberg Mountains. Citrusdal is the centre of the Western Cape citrus industry. It is world renowned for its superior quality citrus fruits, wines and
herbal fynbos products such as rooibos tea and buchu. Holidaying here is an
exhilarating experience for those seeking peace and quiet or pursuing
nature related activities.
Clanwilliam
Home to the world renowned Rooibos tea and Cederberg Mountain range. Clanwilliam is tucked in at the foot of the majestic Cederberg mountain range, about 230km from Cape Town. Steeped in history, it is surrounded by magnificent scenery and is known for the endemic Rooibos tea which is cultivated here, as well as a wealth of Mediterranean and sub-tropical trees, flowers, fruits and nuts that thrive in the fertile soils. Clanwilliam is also home to the highest vineyards in South Africa, which produce award winning wines. The Ramskop Nature Reserve and Biedouw Valley offers a variety of wildflowers that burst into bloom after the winter rains between August and September, creating a spectacular flower display that draws visitors from far and wide. The Olifantsrivier and Jan Disselsrivier embrace the town that is guarded over by the towering Cederberg and the Clanwilliam Dam Resort is popular among water skiers and anglers. The Cederberg Wilderness Area comprises 7 100 hectares and is a remote, pristine area with breathtaking scenery that includes cape fynbos and dramatic rock formations. In the heart of the Cederberg Mountains is Bushman’s Kloof Wilderness Reserve and Retreat, one of South Africa’s most spectacular Natural Heritage Sites and custodian of the world’s largest open-air Bushman Rock-art gallery.
Darling
Only one hour from Cape Town, but a million miles away! Stroll in beautiful natural surroundings or let yourself be entertained at Evitase Perron, a stress-free zone where a dose of laughter will make your day. Tillage your taste buds at one of the wineries on the Darling Wine Experience and turn a day into a weekend or a weekend into a holiday to remember. Hello Darling Tourism, Pastorie Street, Private Bag X1, DARLING 7345 Drive along the R27 until you reach the R315, and follow the road through sweeping vineyards and spectacular wildflower displays, particularly in spring, to the quaint Swartland town of Darling. Join us for the regular village happenings and festivals. Energetic visitors can participate in an exhilarate 4×4 or game drive, trail run or MTB trail, but if aleisurely round of golf or a sociable game of bowls is more your style, head on over to the Darling Golf Club. Learn more about the historical origins of the town at the Darling Museum, a charming reflect on of 19th century living, and gain a fascinating insight into the traditions of South Africa’s first people at !Khwattu, the San Educational and Cultural centre. Explore the town on foot, browse through antique shops, linger awhile on the veranda of a coffee shop and watch the world go by, or view original local art at new concept galleries that fit in with the village’s quirky nature. TOURIST INFORMATION
Tel: 022 492 3361 | Email: info@darlingtourism.com
Doringbaai
Doringbaai is a picturesque fishing hamlet that was once an anchorage from where provisions were transported to in-country towns by camel train. In 1925 the North Bay Canning Company built a crayfish packing factory in the town. The factory closed in the 1970s and has since been converted into a business hub that includes a restaurant, a winery with wine tasting facilities and a function venue. The Abalone Farm was created in 2011 & its 1st farming operations started in 2013. The farm is an initiative between The Doringbaai Development Trust & entrepreneurs of the area. Other prominent buildings include the Doringbaai lighthouse that was built in 1963 and the Roman Catholic Church.
Elandsbaai
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Bobbejaan Mountain lies this hotspot for surfers around the world. The Bobbejaan Mountain cliffs project into the sea at Baboon Point and a large rock shelter in the cliff is adorned with primitive San paintings. Excavations at a rock shelter in the cliffs indicate habitation by man 15 000 years ago.
Elands Bay Cave is a rock art site dating back 10 000 years. Hiking on top of the Bobbejaan Mountain offers stunning views over the ocean(south north). Stay over or enjoy lunch at the charming Elandsbay Hotel. Elandsbaai is 95km northwest of Piketberg and 70km from Velddrif and this is where the magnificent Verlorenvlei, a natural marsh and sanctuary for 240 bird species, flows into the Atlantic Ocean.
The bay is a prime whale and dolphin viewing venue between July and December when migrating Southern Right whales and Heavyside dolphins can be seen. Throughout the year, playful dolphins can be seen ‘surfing the waves’ and, on occasion, Orcas (killer whales) can also be seen.
Goedverwacht
Goedverwacht is nestled in between evergreen Mountain Fynbosch off the
R399 between Piketberg and Velddrif. The village was established as a cattle
farm in 1810 by an ex soldier, Hendrik Schalk Burger. He bequeath the farm
to his former slave, Maniesa from Bengale and her five children,who had
remained on the farm following the emancipation of the slaves ,with the
proviso that, when the last of her children had passed away ,the farm be sold and the revenue divided among their descendants. In 1889 the land was
sold to the Moravian Church for 750 pounds, who established a Mission
Station and has a fascinating story. The Church building ,modern houses and
beatiful gardens boast examples of fine local craftsmanship, while the
tranquility of the village is enhanced by evergreen trees, a diversity of
wildbirds along the main road, beautiful historical buildings including a Mission Store & Watermill. The fertile valley, rich in history lends itself to agricultural activities. The Snoek en Patatfees is Goedverwacht’s main annual event and is held in celebration of the survival of the inhabitants of Goedverwacht(“Kloewers”).
Groedverwacht
Goedverwacht is nestled in between evergreen Mountain Fynbosch off the
R399 between Piketberg and Velddrif. The village was established as a cattle
farm in 1810 by an ex soldier ,Hendrik Schalk Burger.He bequeath the farm
to his former slave ,Maniesa from Bengale and her five children,who had
remained on the farm following the emancipation of the slaves ,with the
proviso that ,when the last of her children had passed away ,the farm be sold
and the revenue divided among their descendants.In 1889 the land was
sold to the Moravian Church for 750 pounds ,who established a Mission
Station and has a fascina?ng story.The Church building ,modern houses and
beatiful gardens boast examples of fine local craftsmanship ,while the
tranquility of the village is enhanced by evergreen trees,a diversity of
wildbirds along the main road, beautiful historical buildings iincluding a
Mission Store & Watermill. The fertile valley ,rich in history lends itself to agricultural activities.The Snoek en Patatfees is Goedverwacht’s main annual event and is held in celebration of the survival of the inhabitants of Goedverwacht(“Kloewers”).
Hopefield
Hopefield is situated on the R45 about 130km from Cape Town and nestles
on the banks of the Zoute River. It was founded in 1853 and was originally
developed as a church community for wheat and sheep farmers. More than
500 species of fynbos has attracted bees to the area and it is well known for
its high grade honey. In the heart of fynbos country, the town and surrounds
boasts with spectacular wildflower displays in August and September. Fossil
deposits, together with a cast of the renowned ‘Saldanha Man’ are on
display at the Museum.
Klawer & Trawal
The landscape surrounding the villages of Klawer & Trawal falls across low, undulating hills where farmland and fertile river banks adjoin arid scrubland. Likewise, slow accompanies fast in a place you can take it all in on a slow drive or join one of the seasonal river rafting expeditions down nearby Doring River. Nearby Klawer is home to amongst others the Klawer wine cellar. It developed around the railway station servicing the Olifants River Valley and got its name from the Afrikaans word for sorrel. Most of the surrounding farms, vineyards, orchards and fields are irrigated with water supplied by the Olifants River Irrigation Scheme. Their shared histories are tied by the gradual opening of trade routes. The coming of the railway in 1914 was one of the events that sparked intensive farming into life. For a decade, the station at Klawer was the end of the line in the rail connection between Cape Town and the Namaqua West Coast.
Lamberts Bay
The name Lambert’s Bay conjures up visions of Bird Island, Khoi Rock art, a wealth of seafood and myriad sun-sea-and-sand activities. Just two hours’ scenic drive from Cape Town and 60km West of Clanwilliam, this seafood mecca, in the heart of crayfish country, attracts holidaymakers, weekenders and day-trippers. View gannets, cormorants and seals at Bird Island. Seashell paved hiking trails, Jackal Creek Route and beach walks to Muisbosskerm and doorspring. Lamberts bay also has a beautiful harbor dating back to the fishing industry. After a refreshing day’s hiking or 4×4 trailing, relax at one of our open-air seafood restaurants for a feast of seafood with our local wines.
Langebaan
Appropriately referred to as the ‘Jewel of the West Coast’, the picturesque
town of Langebaan hugs the shores of the Langebaan Lagoon. A scenic one-hour drive from Cape Town, it is both a haven of tranquility and
the hub of water sports and activities. The vast open landscapes, array of
fauna and flora, delectable seafood, breathtaking azure-blue waters, pristine white sandy beaches and a rich historical heritage, holds the promise of a never-to-be-forgotten experience. With almost year-round sunny weather and safe water conditions, this is a world-renowned mecca for kite surfers, wind surfers, kayakers, fishermen and yachtsmen. A major attraction is the 30 000-hectare West Coast National Park which borders the south side of the lagoon. Enjoy a round of golf at the 10-hole golf club, or pamper yourself with holistic beauty treatments, or browse around the many interesting shops offering curios, sports gear, holiday and fashion wear and arts and crafts. Horse-riding is a popular outdoor activity and viewing the town from the
water’s edge is a must. Be sure to book a cruise on the multi-hued lagoon. After a day of sun-sea-and-sand, try your luck in the casino, or enjoy live
entertainment at the one of the popular places in Langebaan.
Lutzville & Koekenaap
The area around Lutzville was originally known as Vlermuisklip, a reference to a rocky overhang near the town called Vleermuijsklip. The cave was often used by early travellers as a shelter, and was first named by Pieter Everaerts in 1661. Other visitors included Governor Simon van der Stel, and Pieter van Meerhof, who was the first European to reach the Troe-Troe River near Vanrhynsdorp. British soldiers also used the shelter during the SA War (1899-1902). The town Lutzville was established in 1923 and named after Johan Lutz, an irrigation engineer who worked on the Clanwilliam Dam and also surveyed the Lutzville area for agricultural development. The town has a population of just over 5 000 and services a farming community that produces wine and cultivates beans and tomatoes for the canning industry. Lutzville’s popular visitor sites includes: Vleermuijsklip Rock, and Golf Course. The Sishen-Saldanha railway bridge over the Olifants River is worth a brief stop on your journey too. Completed in 1975, supported by 22 pillars that each extend 45m into the river bed. Nearby lies the small village with the memorable name of Koekenaap. It was first settled in 1928. While various legends as to the source of its name exist, the truth has been lost in time.
Malmesbury
Malmesbury, the pulsang ‘Heart of the Swartland’, is just 40 minutes
scenic drive from Cape Town and enjoys a Mediterranean-type climate. Despite its tranquil settng, Malmesbury has a bustling business centre and
an active informal sector. In winter, or ‘green season’, swathes of green
wheat fields and yellow canola fields blanket the countryside. The sandy,
marsh and Renosterveld vegetation erupts into a kaleidoscope of colour in
spring and can be viewed between June and September. For the energetic outdoor enthusiast, there are 4×4 trails, game drives, nature drives, clay pigeon shooting and mountain-biking. For the gourmand there are several fine restaurants and wine cellars. Beautifully maintained and restored historic buildings along the “Historic Walkabout Route” are of interest to historians, architects and tourists alike. Tranquil Malmesbury is the ideal getaway destination.
Moorreesburg
Moorreesburg is valued as much for its wheat industry as for the warmth
and friendliness of the locals. Just 40 minutes from mountains to coast, it is
the perfect base from which to explore the region and the perfect getaway
for weekends and holidays. Visit the 11-circuit labyrinth in the park to relax body and soul, or the Wheat Industry Museum, one of only two of its kind in the world, where you can also see wheat fossils found in an Egyptian Pharoah’s Tomb. For the more energetic there is clay pigeon shooting, water sports on the Berg River and Misverstand Dam, golf and hiking trails. Now is your opportunity to indulge in mouth-watering traditional Swartland cuisine, accompanied by a glass of fine Swartland wine. The annual Agricultural Show is a festival for the whole family and well worth a visit.
Paternoster
Paternoster, meaning ‘Our Father’, ostensibly took its name from the
heartfelt prayers of shipwrecked Portuguese sailors. Although life is so closely associated with the sea and fishing industry, it is to this historic and peaceful little fishing village where the traveller comes to relax. It is a virtual paradise with miles of isolated white sandy beaches, romantic sunsets, some of the best seafood on the West Coast, wildflowers in spring and the Cape Columbine Nature Reserve. Try your hand at kayaking, kite surfing and kite flying, or enjoy the scenic hiking trails. Explore the art Route in Paternoster, Walk the route, view extraordinary artworks and meet the artists. The Columbine Nature Reserve is home to the well-known ‘Tietiesbaai’ and the last manned lighthouse in South Africa. Whales and dolphins visit the bay throughout the year and spring dons a kaleidoscope of veld flowers.
Piketberg
An area of contrast and unexpected beauty that traverses rugged
mountains and shelters bounful valleys. The beauty is magnified by the
unexpectedness of it all. The perfect way to view the town, which is nestled among undulating wheat fields, canola fields, vineyards, fruit farms and rich fynbos, is from the top of the Piket Mountain. Wind your way along the Versfeld Pass, through acres of pear, apple and peach orchards, to the top of the mountain. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and the scent of wild herbs, while enjoying panoramic views that extend from the West Coast to Table Mountain. Pop in at the fully furnished ‘house museum’ with its archives or old Synagogue hosting the town history. Also pay a visit to the first iron bridge in the Cape Colony that stretched a total of 110 meters (347 G) over the Berg River. Finish off the day with a delightful meal at any of the local restaurants. Piketberg activites include wine tasting, hiking, mountain biking, bird watching, canoeing, 4×4, and fishing, to name a few.
Porterville
Porterville is a picturesque town on the slopes of the beautiful Olifantsrivier
Mountains at the foot of Voorberg. The area is famous for the rarest of
flowers, the Disa Uniflora. It is the only place in South Africa where one can
see fields of these flowers in nature, the rarest being the Sulphur yellow disa,
which has been found only in one small colony in Porterville. The Dasklip Pass takes one to the mountain and the hiking trails, to places called De Hel and De Tronk which reveal dramatic rock formations and an abundance of flora and fauna. De Hel is one of the largest natural rock pools in South Africa and the Waterfall Trail leads where waterfalls plummet down towards rock pool and undulating wheat fields.
Riebeek-Kasteel
The quaint villages of Riebeek Kasteel and Riebeek West lies at the foot of
Kasteelberg, about 20 km from Malmesbury, just off the R46, surrounded by
orchards, vineyards and olive groves. The area is better known as the
Riebeek Valley, home to many artists, wine makers and gourmet chefs. It is
also deservingly called the Shiraz Valley, as it is well known for producing
world beating Shiraz grapes and -wines.
Discover this secret valley, a place of captivating charm and creative
energy. Owing to a pleasant Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild and pleasant winters, Riebeek Valley is ideal to visit at any time of the year. The Kasteelberg is 974m high and has unique flora with a mix of Sandveld and Table Mountain fynbos. The Riebeek Valley essentially offers a place of relaxation , a place where one can enjoy the countryside at one’s own pace. It is the epitome of country life ~ breathing in fresh, green air and rejuvenating the body and soul, coupled with excellent accommodation options, active or relaxing activities and restaurants that cater for a variety of tastes and preferences.
Riebeek-West
The quaint villages of Riebeek Kasteel and Riebeek West lies at the foot of
Kasteelberg, about 20 km from Malmesbury, just off the R46, surrounded by
orchards, vineyards and olive groves. The area is better known as the
Riebeek Valley, home to many artists, wine makers and gourmet chefs. It is
also deservingly called the Shiraz Valley, as it is well known for producing
world beating Shiraz grapes and -wines.
Discover this secret valley, a place of captivating charm and creative
energy. Owing to a pleasant Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild and pleasant winters, Riebeek Valley is ideal to visit at any time of the year. The Kasteelberg is 974m high and has unique flora with a mix of Sandveld and Table Mountain fynbos. The Riebeek Valley essentially offers a place of relaxation , a place where one can enjoy the countryside at one’s own pace. It is the epitome of country life ~ breathing in fresh, green air and rejuvenating the body and soul, coupled with excellent accommodation options, active or relaxing activities and restaurants that cater for a variety of tastes and preferences.
Saldanha
A picturesque seaside town on the northern corner of the largest natural
bay in South Africa, where every effort is made to balance industry in the
region with the eco-fragility of the area. From the Adam & Eve rock formation situated on the hill above Saldanha, you can see as far as Table Mountain and at Hoedjieskoppie there is a vantage point which provides panoramic views of the bay and surrounds.The bay’s ideal location makes it a paradise for water-sport enthusiasts and from late July to mid-December, visitors flock to the area to watch the mighty Southern Right whales that visit the bay annually. The local economy is strongly dependent on fishing, mussels, seafood and the harbour trade, as well as an established steel industry and to this day it still plays a major import-export role for industries of the region. With strong historic military links, Saldanha is also host to a naval training base and the South Africa Military Academy and the popular SAS Saldanha Nature Reserve offers a multi-hued display of wildflowers during late winter and spring and is a bird-lovers paradise.
St Helena Bay
Eighteen bays, stunning sea views and sparkling surf make St Helena Bay a
very special destination. Fed by the nutrient-rich Benguela Current, it is one
of the world’s prime fishing areas and its waters provide a valuable
livelihood to many locals. St Helena Bay is a birdwatcher’s paradise and being at the southernmost point of the migratory route from Europe and the Steppes of Russia makes it a must-visit spot for twitchers.
Imposing granite boulders provide a stunning backdrop to the town and
beautiful. Endemic Heaviside’s dolphins, as well as dusky and common
dolphins visit the bay in search of food, and the calm waters give shelter to
the southern right whales that come to mate and calve in the second half of
the year. Humpback and killer whales are also frequent visitors. After good winter rains, the veld comes alive with the vibrant colours of
spring flowers. Combine this with the opportunity to enjoy the local
women’s sleight of hand as they “vlek snoek” in the harbour – fascinating to
watch – and their cultural heritage and quirky, humorous vernacular is quite
intriguing.
Strandfontein
Strandfontein has a population of less than 200 permanent residents, but
bursts at the seams come holiday time. Most of the houses are holiday
homes, B&Bs and guesthouses. Strandfontein isn’t just a summer destination though. During late winter and early spring the town’s sandy cliffs provide excellent lookout points for whale watchers. The Wandering Whale Labyrinth, just south of the town, is a place for solace and contemplation.
Vanrhynsdorp
The gateway to Namaqualand is Vanrhynsdorp. Here too, is the path to the
Hantam Karoo and the Cederberg. This is famous as flower-land, but there’s
so much more to see. Vanrhynsdorp is situated on the Troe-Troe River and was once an outspan for
travellers. The settlement became known as Troe-Troe, and was renamed
Vanrhynsdorp in 1881 in honour of local dignitary Petrus Benjamin van
Rhyn. The town is a commercial centre for the region and services a large
sheep farming district.
Places worth a visit include the town’s first church, called Het Gesticht;
Trutro House that was built in 1751; the old gaol, which incorporates a
succulent nursery; and, a former horse-powered mill. The Victor Smith Memorial outside the town is an important marker in South
Africa’s aviation history. Smith (1913-2001) played a pioneering role in
developing African air routes. In 1932 when he was only 19-years-old, Smith
attempted to break the Cape Town-to-London flying record of 8½ days. The
following year he tackled the London-to-Cape Town record, but crashlanded
some 27km from Vanrhynsdorp, on the farm Quaggaskop. He still
made history – his was the first successful forced landing on South African
soil.
Velddrif
Welcome to Velddrif – with its age-old traditions, where the stars shine brighter, where the sea and river meet, fish abound and tranquillity resounds in the call of the birds. The meandering Berg River reflects the tranquillity of this fishing village. A birder’s mecca. Peace, silence, tranquillity and lots of space to explore are only some of the terms to describe the beautiful West Coast. And if you throw in the Carinus Bridge, Bokkoms, Flamingos, Fisherfolk and stunning long pristine beaches, then you know you’re in Velddrif!
Vredenburg
Vreden means ‘peace’, but its origins were anything but peaceful. In the
18th century, a fresh water spring between the farms Heuningklip and
Witteklip caused strife between the respective owners, and it became
known as Twisfontein (´quarrel spring´). As the strife continued, it was
renamed Prosesfontein (´lawsuit spring´). The Dutch Reformed Church came to the rescue in 1875 when they built the first church near the disputed spring and promptly renamed the town Vredenburg (peaceful town). The Twisfontein Monument is the sole reminder of the renowned water ‘war’. These days Vredenburg is the transportation and commercial hub of the West Coast and administrative centre of the Saldanha Bay Municipality. The only argument you´re likely to have in modern-day Vredenburg is about what activities to participate in.
Vredendal
As the region’s largest town, Vredendal is the go-to place for stocking up
whether you’re a visitor on a road-trip or a farmer on remote land. Its
economy is based on agriculture and mining of minerals from sand. As you explore, look out for the produce – grapes, potatoes, tomatoes,
onions, pumpkins, watermelons and sweet melons: all made possible by the
development of the water-transporting Olifants River Irrigation Scheme. Vredendal has one of the country’s largest co-operative wine cellars, a
modern grape juice concentrate plant, and thriving dried fruit and a food
canning industries. The town was originally known as Bakkeley Plaats, apparently due to an altercation between the Dutch and the Khoi in 1668. Once peace had been declared, the name was changed to Vreedensdaal – valley of peace. Places of interest include Namaqua Wines – one of the largest wineries in South Africa , and the old Roman Catholic Church.
Yzerfontein
Just 80km north of Cape Town, tucked away on the sandy shoreline, hides Yzerfontein, one of the West Coast’s most lustrous pearls. The village is an urban conservancy with an interesting history, where man and nature live in harmony. It boasts natural unspoilt fynbos, beautiful sunsets, and 16 Mile Beach, the longest uninterrupted beach on the South African coastline, with views of Dassen Island and Table Mountain. Yzerfontein is the perfect choice for a getaway, just off the R27, and situated within close proximity of the town of Darling, the !Khwa ttu San Cultural & Educational Centre, the West Coast National park with its lagoon and abundance of flowers in the spring, and the West Coast Fossil Park. Endangered African Black Oystercatchers roost on the rocks and between July and January whales and dolphins can be seen from the lookout points. The small-boat harbour has launching slips and the annual Snoek Classic and Galjoen Derby are highlights during the holiday season. If you are a bird watcher or appreciate wild flowers and fynbos, then Yzerfontein is the place to visit.
Explore the coastline from Pearl Bay to Rooipan on foot, cycle or jog the streets in safety, or experience a choice of mountain bike trails in the vicinity. Yzerfontein is a surfer’s and windsurfer’s haven with Schaap Island and the Main Beach being the local surfing hotspots. Accommodation is plentiful and varies from a caravan park, luxurious beach houses, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, to self-catering apartments, many with stunning views over the vast Atlantic Ocean.
Whether you are searching for a peaceful stretch of beach where you can stroll for hours on end, or a scenic spot to tie the knot, Yzerfontein caters for a variety of preferences. Our close-knit community welcomes you with open arms!
