Just inland from the West Coast town of Velddrif, along a stretch of beautiful country road, lies the picturesque town of Aurora, nestled at the foot of the Piketberg Mountains, only 185km from Cape Town.
On the 3rd of September the town will be hosting its not-to-be missed Om Die Berg mountain bike challenge. The event offers an exciting nine stage, 55km mountain bike race – with a route traversing the base of the mountain; a less gruelling 20km route; and a leisurely 10km cycle route. There is also a 21km trail run taking place, as well as a 10km walking route for a more sedate pace.
The Om Die Berg event promises to be a favourite amongst mountain bike and outdoor enthusiasts, with the routes navigating beautiful farm lands, veld and mountain side scenery. The event is being organised by the NG Kerk in Aurora, with all funds raised going towards the restoration of the beautiful historic church building in the town, which was built 114 years ago.
Also taking place in Aurora on the 3rd and 4th of September – and the starting point for the Om Die Berg cycle routes – is the annual Aurora Sandveld Skou – a festival of everything that is agricultural, coupled with live entertainment, music, dancing, food of many varieties, stalls selling an abundance of items, kids entertainment, farm animals, country hospitality and so much more.
While in town, be sure to visit the impressive Dutch Reformed Church, and take a trip to McClear’s Beacon, a national monument situated on the farm Klipfontein. Also take a drive up the mountain to the Danielshoogte Private Reserve and experience spectacular views of the valley – on clear days, Table Mountain and St Helena Bay can be seen. In Spring the flowers here are spectacular as nature unfolds her annual wildflower spectacle.
For hungry travellers, Die Rooi Granaat Restaurant and the Koekeloer @ Koffiemoer Coffee Shop are highly recommended stopovers in Aurora, and a top-rated accommodation option is Chateau La Terrance, a quaint French-influenced guest house situated in the town.
Established in 1906 and named after Ceylonia Aurora Perreira, the daughter of the first Dutch Reformed minister in the area, the town of Aurora has an interesting history that gives new meaning to the saying “things are going pear-shaped.” It was here that a French astronomer set up an observatory and declared that the world was pear-shaped – a finding that had the astronomical world up in arms for decades whilst they tried to prove otherwise.
This small, once unheard-of gem is a village of hidden surprises where visitors can look forward to breath-taking scenery, beautiful architecture, and a rich and warm welcome from the local community. Added to this are the incredible night skies, the abundant flowers to be found here in Spring, beautiful mountain scenery with dramatic rock formations, and a wide variety of bird life – making Aurora a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Aurora forms part of the Bergrivier district (alongside the towns of Velddrif, Piketberg and Porterville) – a beautiful area on Cape Town’s doorstep that offers a vast array of activities and accommodation options, as well as some of the most pristine and untouched nature reserves, wetlands, lagoons and more.
For more information on the Om Die Berg event visit www.auroraomdieberg.co.za or call 083 320 7509. You can also email auroraomdieberg@gmail.com. For more information on where to stay, eat and more things to see and do in the Bergrivier area visit www.bergriviertourism.co.za.
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Farm-to-Table in Piketberg: Celebrating Rich Autumn Flavours in the Heart of Bergrivier
Farm-to-Table in Piketberg: Celebrating Rich Autumn Flavours in the Heart of Bergrivier As autumn settles over the Bergrivier region, Piketberg and its surrounding farms take on a slower, richer rhythm – one defined by harvest tables, warm flavours, and a deep connection between land and plate. Just 90 minutes from Cape Town, this mountain-framed destination offers more than scenic beauty. It’s a place where food tells a story – of soil, seasonality, and generations of farming traditions that continue to shape what ends up on your plate. In Piketberg, farm-to-table isn’t something curated – it’s simply how things are done. Markets, Padstalle and the Joy of Discovery One of the best ways to experience Piketberg’s farm-to-table culture is simply to explore – stopping often, tasting generously, and meeting the people behind the produce. High up on the plateau, the Piket-Bo-Berg Farmers Market has become a much-loved gathering point, drawing visitors with its artisanal breads, fresh produce, preserves, honey and handcrafted goods. It’s a place where the connection between grower and buyer feels immediate and real. Along the surrounding routes, padstalle and farm stalls offer their own temptations – from freshly baked mosbrood and roosterkoek to homemade jams, dried fruit and local delicacies. These roadside stops are more than conveniences; they are an essential part of the region’s food culture, inviting travellers to slow down and savour the journey. A visit to Skrik van Rondom adds another layer to the experience, where rooibos products sit alongside biltong and game meat – a true reflection of the area’s diverse culinary landscape. From Soil to Sip: Wines, Coffee and Rooibos No farm-to-table journey is complete without something to drink – and Piketberg delivers with a range of locally produced options that pair beautifully with the season’s flavours. At Org de Rac, one of the area’s most celebrated organic wine estates, visitors can enjoy thoughtfully crafted wines that reflect both terroir and sustainability. Tastings often include pairings – from fresh oysters to local cheeses – all enjoyed against sweeping valley views. For something more grounding, Berg Coffee offers a slower, more intimate experience – the kind of place where a strong cup and a homemade treat become part of the journey rather than just a quick stop. And then there’s rooibos – deeply woven into the identity of the wider region. From cultivation and traditional drying processes to modern interpretations like rooibos-infused gin, this uniquely South African ingredient moves effortlessly from field to glass. Whether enjoyed as a tea or as part of a botanical pairing, rooibos adds a distinctly local note to the Piketberg palate. In nearby Redelinghuys, rooibos farming forms part of a broader agricultural landscape that also includes citrus and grape production, with these crops supplying both local markets and international export channels. Olive Groves, Game Meat and Grape Harvests Beyond the stalls, markets and restaurants, the farms themselves tell an even deeper story. Olive farms in the region produce oils that capture the flavour of the land – robust, sun-ripened and ideal for pairing with freshly baked breads or seasonal dishes. For something more distinctive, game meat from farms such as Skrik van Rondom offers a taste of the wild, often prepared simply to let the quality of the meat shine through. Meanwhile, the vineyards of Broodkraal contribute to the area’s agricultural richness, with grape production forming part of the broader winemaking ecosystem that supports estates like Org de Rac. Together, these elements create a food landscape that feels both abundant and deeply rooted in place. Where Local Traditions Meet the Table Alongside Piketberg, and adding a deeper cultural layer to the region’s farm-to-table story, lies the village of Goedverwacht – a place where time-honoured food traditions remain part of everyday life. Founded in the early 19th century as a mission station, Goedverwacht has strong Khoisan heritage roots, which continue to shape the community’s cultural identity, agricultural practices, and connection to the land. Here, organic vegetable farming continues alongside these deeply embedded traditions, with seasonal produce harvested by hand and shared within the community. Visit during the sweet potato (patat) harvest season and you’ll witness a vibrant celebration of local food heritage, where this humble ingredient becomes the centrepiece of gatherings and meals. Alongside this, West Coast flavours find their way inland – with snoek, often enjoyed smoked or braaied, forming part of the region’s broader culinary identity. The annual Snoek en Patat Fees, held in June, brings this heritage to life – a lively celebration of food, culture and community rooted in a simple but powerful tradition. Historically, local farmers would trade their homegrown sweet potatoes with West Coast fishermen in exchange for snoek, creating a staple winter pairing that sustained the community. Today, that legacy lives on through the festival, where visitors can enjoy braaied snoek, sweet potato dishes, roosterkoek and homemade preserves, alongside music, local crafts and community storytelling. But beyond these moments of celebration, the rhythm of life in Piketberg and its surrounds returns to something slower, more grounded – and it’s here that the true essence of farm-to-table is found. A Season to Slow Down and Savour Autumn in Piketberg is not about rushing from one experience to the next. It’s about taking the time to sit at a table, to taste what’s in season, and to understand where it comes from. It might be a simple meal made from freshly harvested vegetables, a glass of organic wine enjoyed as the sun sets over the valley, or a stop at a farmstall where the baker hands you something still warm from the oven. In Piketberg, farm-to-table isn’t a trend – it’s a way of life. And in autumn, when the land is at its most generous, there’s no better time to experience it.
Taste Velddrif: Unforgettable Culinary Adventures Rooted in Land, River and Tradition
Taste Velddrif: Unforgettable Culinary Adventures Rooted in Land, River and Tradition There’s something about Velddrif that gets under your skin – and it usually starts with the food. Maybe it’s the salt in the air. Maybe it’s the rhythm of life on the riverbanks. Or maybe it’s the simple fact that here, food isn’t just something you eat – it’s something you experience. Set along the gentle curves of the Berg River, this small West Coast village clings quietly to the water’s edge, just over 150km from Cape Town. It feels worlds away – where the pace slows, seabirds drift overhead, and life unfolds in easy, unhurried moments. This is a place where culinary adventure meets deep-rooted tradition – where farm, river and sea come together on a plate, and every stop adds another layer to the story. If Velddrif has a heartbeat, it’s Bokkomlaan Running alongside the Berg River, this historic stretch is where one of the West Coast’s most iconic traditions continues to unfold. Rows of bokkoms – salted, sun-dried mullet – hang in the open air, prepared much as they have been for generations. Here, you can learn how bokkoms are made from the fishermen themselves, then taste the result – something that hasn’t been reinvented, just preserved. At Ek en Jy Vissery, this heritage becomes something you can sit down and savour. A simple table set close to the water, bokkoms served with fresh bread and moskonfyt, and a glass of chilled white wine in hand – it’s an experience shaped as much by its surroundings as by the food itself. Craft Beer, Small-Batch Gin and Harbour Views At the Port Owen marina, Velddrif’s more contemporary flavour comes into focus. With boats moored gently in the harbour, it’s a setting that invites you to slow down and stay awhile. Spots like Charlie’s Brewhouse offer a range of artisanal beers – from crisp lagers and easy-drinking ales to fuller-bodied brews with deeper, more complex notes – often best explored through a tasting flight. Alongside this, small-batch gin experiences introduce locally inspired botanicals and clean, aromatic profiles that reflect the surrounding landscape. Paired with relaxed menus – from seafood to casual sharing plates – it’s the kind of place where a quick stop easily turns into a long, unhurried afternoon. Fresh from the Water: Seafood and Simple Pleasures Seafood is woven into daily life in Velddrif, appearing in many forms across the village. Whether it’s freshly prepared takeaways enjoyed overlooking the water, or a more refined meal at a riverside or marina restaurant, the emphasis is always on freshness. Snoek, mussels and calamari are prepared simply, allowing the ingredients to speak for themselves. At the Laaiplek harbour, even an ice cream from the Lighthouse Giftshop & Deli becomes part of the experience – something to savour while watching fishing boats come and go. From Farm to Table: Where Flavour Begins Velddrif’s story doesn’t stop at the water’s edge – it stretches inland to farms where flavour begins long before it reaches your plate. At Kokkerkom Kaas, cheese tasting offers a window into this slower way of producing food. Made from rich Guernsey milk, the cheeses range from gently spiced goudas to softer, creamier styles and more mature varieties with depth and character. Visitors can enjoy a tasting or take a selection home to pair with fresh bread and local preserves – a simple pleasure that reflects the region. This experience offers a rare chance to chat to the cheesemaker, learn about her craft and taste how the land and process come together in every bite. Along the Road: Farm Stalls and Familiar Flavours Some of the best flavours in Velddrif can be discovered at unassuming farm stalls, where shelves are lined with homemade goods and traditional West Coast favourites. Stop in at Skooltjie Padstal or Tolbossie Farm Stall, where freshly baked breads, preserves and comforting local dishes reflect everyday life in the region. Think flaky fish pies, bokkom bread, and those nostalgic, no-frills flavours that hit just right. For something truly traditional, look out for dishes like pap and fried fat (kaiings) – rich, comforting and deeply rooted in local food culture. These are meals that aren’t styled or staged; they’re part of daily life – generous and familiar. Markets, Makers and a Sense of Place If you want to experience Velddrif in one place, head to the Velddrif Village Market. This is where the community shows up – and shows off. Stalls brim with artisanal foods, organic produce, wood-fired pizzas, fresh coffee and homemade cakes, alongside handcrafted goods and locally made products. There’s a relaxed, social energy where visitors browse, taste and linger. Regular themed markets and nearby offerings in Port Owen add to the experience, bringing together fresh produce and handmade wares in a beautiful coastal setting. A Place Where Food Tells a Story What makes Velddrif special isn’t just what’s on the plate – it’s everything around it. It’s learning how bokkoms are made from the fishermen themselves, chatting to a cheesemaker about her craft, and tasting produce that comes directly from the surrounding land. In some cases, it’s even taking part in cooking lessons with locals, where recipes and techniques are shared in the moment. It’s discovering that the best meals aren’t rushed – they’re shared. This is agritourism in its most authentic form – immersive, personal and full of flavour. Velddrif isn’t polished. It’s real. It’s wind in your hair, salt on your skin, and flavour that stays with you long after you’ve left. Every bite forms part of the journey – and every journey tastes better here.
Cooling Down in Piketberg – Dams, Views & Rural Retreats
Cooling Down in Piketberg – Dams, Views & Rural Retreats Did you know that swimming boosts dopamine and serotonin – the brain chemicals that make you happier? When late summer temperatures climb, the mountain town of Piketberg offers plenty of ways to dive into that feeling, with cool rivers, farm dam swims, scenic drives, countryside cafés and peaceful rural retreats. Just 90 minutes from Cape Town, this historic town and its surrounding farms offer the perfect blend of refreshing water, sweeping mountain views and relaxed countryside charm. Whether you’re paddling along a quiet river, diving into a pool, or wandering through peaceful streets in town, Piketberg proves that cooling down can be just as much about slowing down. Riverside Fun for the Whole Family There’s something wonderfully carefree about a day spent by the river. The gentle current, the splash of paddles on the water, and the occasional ripple of a fish breaking the surface all combine to create the kind of relaxed summer atmosphere that makes it easy to lose track of time. For families, rivers offer endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Kids can paddle along the edges in kayaks or canoes, cast a fishing line with hopeful anticipation, or cool off with a refreshing swim on a warm afternoon. Along the banks, dragonflies hover above the water while shady trees invite parents to sit back and enjoy the slower rhythm of countryside life. Just outside Piketberg, Kleine Paradys offers the perfect place to enjoy all of this and more. Located alongside the Berg River, about 13 kilometres from town, this relaxed farm retreat invites visitors to make the most of river life. Here, families can spend their days fishing for bass, paddling along the river in canoes or kayaks, or simply cooling off in the water. Back on land, the fun continues with a large, heated swimming pool complete with a slide, while adults can escape to the smaller indoor pool reserved just for them. Accommodation options include camping sites, cottages and glamping-style caravans overlooking the river, creating a laid-back countryside escape where days are spent outdoors and evenings end with a braai beneath wide West Coast skies. And perhaps the best part? It’s the kind of place where children quickly forget about tablets and Wi-Fi passwords – swapping screen time for sunshine, splashing, paddling and riverside adventures instead. The Simple Joy of a Farm Dam While rivers offer one way to cool down, another classic countryside experience awaits high above Piketberg – the beloved farm dam swim. For many South Africans, farm dams hold a special kind of summer magic. Afternoons stretch lazily beneath wide blue skies, children splash happily at the water’s edge, and a quick dip somehow turns into hours outdoors. For kids, the dam becomes its own little world of discovery – spotting tadpoles in the shallows, watching dragonflies skim the water, keeping a hopeful eye out for frogs, and seeing the occasional fish ripple the surface as it rises to feed. High above the valley, on the cool plateau of Piket-Bo-Berg, lies Kruistementvlei Farm – a hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor explorers. Surrounded by pristine fynbos, orchards and rocky koppies, the farm offers hiking, cycling and climbing trails, along with a refreshing mountain dam swim when water levels allow. Because Piket-Bo-Berg sits several hundred metres higher than the valley below, temperatures here are often noticeably cooler – making that first plunge into the water even more refreshing. Evenings bring their own magic, with owls calling, frogs beginning their nightly chorus and a spectacular canopy of stars overhead. Time your visit right and you can also explore the popular Piket-Bo-Berg Farmers Market, where artisanal breads, honey, preserves and farm-fresh produce make the perfect reward after a morning swim or hike. Scenic Drives, Coffee Stops and Farm Stall Finds One of the best ways to experience all that Piketberg has to offer is simply to explore the surrounding countryside. A scenic drive through the area reveals quiet farm roads, hidden viewpoints and open landscapes that instantly make you breathe a little deeper. The road winds through rolling wheat fields, canola blooms and vineyards, inviting travellers to slow down and simply enjoy the journey. And no countryside adventure is complete without a few delicious stops along the way. Charming farm stalls and cafés in the area offer everything from freshly baked pies and farm breads to sweet treats and strong “moer koffie” served the traditional way. Make time for a stop at Rooistoor Farm Stall, where shelves are stocked with homemade delights and local produce. It’s the perfect place to stock up on snacks for your day of exploring – or simply sit back and enjoy the slower rhythm of country life. Adventurous explorers may even want to venture further afield toward Verlorenvlei, one of the Western Cape’s most important wetlands and a peaceful landscape known for its birdlife and endless skies. Visitors planning a trip to the region in early May can also experience the vibrant Sandveld Fees taking place in nearby Redelinghuys on 2 May – a lively community celebration of West Coast culture featuring local food, music and crafts. A Town Full of Stories and Slow Moments Piketberg is also a town rich in stories and heritage. Take time to wander through the historic centre and discover colourful murals, heritage buildings and quiet streets that reflect the town’s layered past. The self-guided heritage route connects several fascinating landmarks, including historic churches, stately homes and the Piketberg Museum. What makes this village and the surrounding area so special isn’t just the rivers, dams and mountain views – it’s the feeling of space, calm and genuine countryside hospitality. Here, cooling down doesn’t require crowded beaches or busy attractions. It might be a quiet paddle along the river, a swim in a mountain dam, or a cup of coffee enjoyed slowly beneath a shady tree. And for families, it’s also a place where children can spend their days outdoors
Discover Rock Pools, Rivers and Ridgelines: Summer in Porterville
Discover Rock Pools, Rivers and Ridgelines: Summer in Porterville Summer getaways in the Western Cape don’t always have to mean sand and sea. For those willing to look inland, the mountains offer wide horizons, cooling breezes, dramatic scenery and freshwater escapes — from crystal-clear rock pools and tumbling streams to waterfalls and high-altitude swimming spots, perfect for cooling off after days shaped by hiking, biking, birding and the many other ways the mountains invite you to explore them. Set at the foot of the Olifants River Mountains, Porterville is a town where the mountains shape daily life rather than simply forming a scenic backdrop. The rhythm of the place follows the landscape — early starts to make the most of cool morning air, afternoons drawn naturally towards water, and evenings spent watching the light fade across mountain slopes. Here, mountain adventures and water experiences are inseparable. Trails begin just beyond town, rivers and streams wind their way down the slopes, and in summer especially, life gravitates towards pools, waterfalls and shaded swimming spots that make time outdoors both active and refreshing. Following the Water into the Mountains The mountains above Porterville form part of the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area, a protected landscape where rivers, streams and seasonal waterfalls carve through fynbos-covered slopes. In summer, these waterways become natural pause points — places to cool off mid-hike, linger beside flowing water, or spend entire afternoons moving between sun and shade. Fed by high-lying catchments, the rivers and pools here are often remarkably clear, their cool temperatures offering instant relief on warm days. These waterways support a rich web of life — from dragonflies skimming the surface and insects sheltering among the reeds, to frogs calling from the banks and indigenous fish species moving quietly through deeper pools. Birds and small animals are often drawn to the water’s edge, adding to the sense that swimming feels less like visiting an attraction and more like stepping briefly into a living landscape. One of the most well-known routes in the area is the 22 Waterfalls trail, where a network of cascades and pools rewards walkers with regular opportunities to swim and rest. The experience is less about reaching a final destination and more about the journey itself — walking, stopping, swimming, and continuing on at an unhurried pace. Higher into the mountains, Beaverlac offers an expansive playground for summer exploration. Spread across thousands of hectares, it is best known for its hiking trails, rock pools and waterfalls fed by mountain rivers. Here, swimming is woven naturally into the day: a trail ends at a pool, a hot afternoon calls for a river dip, and children and adults alike move easily between walking, exploring and cooling off in clear mountain water. Mountain Stays Shaped by Water and Wilderness Accommodation in the mountains around Porterville reflects this close connection to the landscape. At Pampoenfontein Guest Farm, self-catering cottages are tucked into pristine fynbos with direct access to mountain trails and seasonal streams. Guests often find that days unfold organically — walking in the cool of the morning, spotting birds and wildflowers along the way, and seeking out water as temperatures rise. Nearby, Berghoff offers a more open, farm-style mountain experience. Set on a working protea farm above town, its large dam becomes the heart of summer days, inviting swimming, paddling and relaxed afternoons by the water, balanced by gentle walks and wide mountain views. A similar sense of space and simplicity can be found at Groenvlei Cottage, where dam swimming forms part of a slower, nature-led stay. Also set in the mountains above Porterville, KORF Cabin offers a more secluded option. Perched against the slopes and surrounded by proteas, this off-grid cabin provides a quiet base for exploring the surrounding landscape, with an outdoor hot tub offering a welcome way to unwind at the end of the day. Beyond the Pools While water plays a central role in summer life around Porterville, not every day needs to be shaped by movement and swimming. The surrounding landscapes also lend themselves to quieter moments — gentle walks, unhurried observation, and time spent simply taking in the sights and sounds. These environments fall within the Cape Floristic Region, one of the most botanically rich areas in the world. In season, slow exploration reveals bursts of colour — from proteas and ericas to the rare and much-sought-after red disa, often found near cool, shaded streams. The combination of altitude, water and fynbos creates ideal conditions for birdlife, while photographers and flower enthusiasts are drawn to the changing light, textures and plant diversity, where even a short walk can offer something entirely unexpected. As evening falls, the pace slows further. With little light pollution, mountain nights invite visitors to turn their gaze upward — tracing constellations, watching the Milky Way emerge, or simply enjoying the stillness that settles over the landscape after dark. For those seeking higher-energy experiences, mountain biking routes wind through valleys and over passes, while paragliders launch from the heights of Dasklip Pass, drifting above farmland and fynbos below. For a different liquid experience beyond rivers and pools, a visit to the Tygerkloof Distillery, the home of Ginsmith Gin offers a chance to sample artisanal gin in a mountain setting — a slower, more contemplative way to end a day of exploring. Back in the village, cafés, restaurants, and a creative community shaped by artists and makers provide a relaxed counterpoint to days spent outdoors, making it easy to balance adventure with downtime. Porterville Dam offers an easy-going setting for picnics, family swims and slow afternoons, with the mountains always in view. Those staying in town can also cool off closer to home, with swimming pools available at Flyers Lodge, Ebonymoon Guest House and Vines & Views. The mountains around Porterville — and the town itself — offer an easy balance between activity and rest. Families, singles, couples and groups can be as adventurous or as relaxed as they choose, whether that’s swimming,
Velddrif Water Escapes – Unforgettable Boats, Beaches & Beyond
Velddrif Water Escapes – Unforgettable Boats, Beaches & Beyond If there’s one place where water sets the pace of daily life, it’s Velddrif. Perched along the lower Berg River as it winds toward the ocean, this West Coast village invites you into a world of paddling, cruising, angling, beach time and great food with a view. Here, you can drift along the river with a sundowner, relax with a fishing rod in hand, or enjoy something delicious right on the water’s edge. Velddrif blends adventure and tranquillity in that wonderfully effortless West Coast way. Whether you arrive seeking action or a slow exhale, here’s why Velddrif’s water-based escapes deserve a spot on your travel list this year. Where the River Tells Its Story: Slow Cruises & Champagne Moments One of the must-do activities is a river cruise — a fun, scenic and relaxing way to experience the Berg River from a completely different perspective. Once the boat pulls away from the jetty, you get a front-row view of the river’s natural beauty as reeds, birdlife and long peaceful stretches drift by. Cruises operate throughout the day, and local operators such as Cracklin’ Rosie River Tours, Knot Xtreme Bergrivier Boat Cruise and Step Lightly River Cruises offer everything from daytime outings to sunset trips with sundowners. It’s one of the most enjoyable ways to appreciate Velddrif’s calm, wide-open landscapes. Paddle Power: Kayaking, Canoeing & SUP on the Berg River If you prefer setting your own pace, paddling is one of Velddrif’s best-loved activities. The Berg River’s broad, calm stretches make it ideal for canoeing, kayaking or stand-up paddling. Early mornings are especially rewarding, with smooth water, gentle light and plenty of birdlife along the reeds. Visitors can bring their own craft or hire equipment from Canoe & Kayak World, making it easy for both beginners and confident paddlers to get onto the water. Bokkom Laan: Old West Coast Traditions on the River’s Edge Along the riverbank lies Bokkom Laan, Velddrif’s oldest road and a recognised Heritage site. This rustic strip is the historic heart of the bokkoms industry, where mullet have been salted and dried for generations. Today, it’s a charming blend of working heritage and laid-back riverside leisure. Visitors wander past old vishuise and drying racks, browse small shops, enjoy a drink on wooden jetties and watch the tide shift just metres away. Ek & Djy, the lane’s most-loved eatery, captures its unpolished, authentic West Coast character. Laaiplek Harbour: A Front-Row Seat to Fishing Life Further downstream, the Berg River meets the sea at Laaiplek — a working harbour rich in traditional West Coast character. Fishing boats move in and out with the tides, nets are repaired on the quayside, and the rhythm of harbour life is always on show. It’s a great place for a wander before stopping at the Lighthouse Giftshop & Deli for ice cream or a light snack with a view of the trawlers. Salt on Your Skin: Beaches, Surf & Ocean Energy Just north of Velddrif lies Dwarskersbos, a peaceful coastal village known for its long stretch of unspoilt beach. It’s ideal for long walks, beach days and photography. On calm days, the shallow water becomes a family-friendly swimming area; when the swell rises, surfers enjoy uncrowded waves. Consistent West Coast winds also make the area popular with kite surfers. Dwarskersbos is close enough for a quick seaside outing and offers a refreshing contrast to the quiet river scenes upriver. Casting Off: River Fishing, Beach Angling & Deep-Sea Adventures Fishing is woven into Velddrif’s identity. The Berg River estuary supports healthy fish stocks, making riverbank angling both accessible and rewarding. Knor Varkie is a favourite spot where fishing and relaxed riverside gatherings often blend into one. Surf anglers head to the beaches around Laaiplek and Dwarskersbos, targeting deeper channels beyond the shore break. For offshore enthusiasts, deep-sea charters leave from the harbour and marinas, offering outings into St Helena Bay in search of larger species. The mix of river, beach and open ocean makes Velddrif a standout fishing destination. Wildlife in Watercolour: Birding in a Ramsar Paradise Velddrif’s Berg River estuary is a Ramsar wetland and a magnet for birdlife, with more than 200 species recorded. Flamingos, spoonbills, pelicans, terns and migrant waders are regularly seen across the tidal flats and salt marshes. Birdwatching is rewarding almost anywhere — along Bokkom Laan, on a river cruise, at Rooibaai, from the harbour wall, or at nearby Rocherpan Nature Reserve. Even casual visitors often leave with memorable sightings thanks to the area’s rich bird diversity. Eat, Sleep and Stay by the Water Good food in Velddrif usually comes with a view. Whether you’re enjoying a relaxed meal at De Brug or Teyana’s, or heading to Soverby Lapa for seafood on the beach, dining here is unfussy and full of West Coast flavour. River Shack at Knor Varkie offers a rustic riverside stop, while Suikerbekkie at Kuifkopvisvanger brings countryside calm beside the water. The Lighthouse Giftshop & Deli remains a go-to for harbour treats and ice creams. This waterside lifestyle extends to the accommodation. Throughout Velddrif, Laaiplek and Dwarskersbos, you’ll find everything from cosy riverside cottages to relaxed self-catering units and simple seaside stays. Wherever you choose, water is never far away — and neither is that unmistakable slow West Coast ease. A Place Where Water Writes the Itinerary Velddrif offers the kind of variety that turns a simple trip into a memorable one. You can spend a morning paddling on still water, an afternoon exploring Bokkom Laan or the working harbour at Laaiplek, and a sunset on the beach in Dwarskersbos. It’s an easy, welcoming destination where the water is always close and every day can look slightly different from the one before – a perfect must-do adventure for the fresh new year ahead. If this sounds like the kind of escape you’d love to experience, Bergrivier Tourism launched its Love on the Water Valentine — offering a chance to win a romantic two-night stay at Draaihoek Lodge, including a
