Budgets are tight for most these days, but that doesn’t mean you have to forgo fun and adventure. Staycations are a great way to discover what is on your doorstep while keeping local and saving money.
The good news is that there are a multitude of fabulous and affordable things to see and do – and places to stay – in the coastal areas of the Bergrivier region, which is right on Cape Town’s doorstep.
The West Coast village of Velddrif, and the surrounding areas of Port Owen and Dwarskersbos, offer a huge amount of water sports to be enjoyed, including skiing, sailing, canoeing, boating, and stand-up paddling – the list goes on! Fishing enthusiasts are in for a treat as the river holds an abundance of fish species, and the Fisheries Museum is also well worth a visit to find out about the colourful history of the fishing industry along this coast.
A boat cruise up the Berg River is a must-do experience, and Bokkomlaan – the oldest road in the town that snakes up the edge of the river – is a great place to relax and watch the tide come in while sipping artisanal coffee or a cocktail – and keeping an eye on the abundant bird life. Also visit the eclectic shops dotted along this quaint dirt road which is named after “Bokkoms”, the salted mullet strung into bunches and hung to dry like biltong (it’s the local delicacy in this area).
Birdwatching is a highly recommended activity as the area is one of the most popular bird-watching sites in South Africa, with the tidal mudflats and salt marshes presenting more than 200 species of feathered friends. The estuary in Velddrif is the third biggest in SA and is rated as one of the most important birding areas in the world as well as being a key breeding site for many species of fish. Dwarskersbos is a surfer’s paradise, and also offers some good sea fishing, whilst the nearby Rocherpan Nature Reserve is a must-visit. One can choose to drive through the reserve or hike along the footpaths and numerous bird hides and picnic areas offer you the chance to spot over 180 different species.
The area is a foodie’s paradise! From eclectic and rustic to fine dining or takeaways – there truly is something for everyone here – served with typical West Coast hospitality.
And the Bergrivier magic doesn’t end here. The borders of the Bergrivier region stretch inland to also incorporate the towns of Aurora, Piketberg and Porterville – all beautiful historic country towns set in picturesque rural settings that offer abundant outdoor activities, good food, good wine, attractive architecture, warm country hospitality and rich heritage. These country gems also offer mountain getaways that promise an escape from busy schedules and deadlines, and an immersion in tranquillity and peace.
Importantly, all of the towns within the Bergrivier region offer many fantastic accommodation options to suit all budgets for a sensational staycation. Whether it is coastal or inland, camping, glamping, rustic or luxury self-catering, guesthouses or hotels – there is a plethora to choose from.
In fact, to showcase this diversity, Bergrivier Tourism has launched a competition that has travellers voting for their favourite accommodation hotspots in the area – with the chance to win an all-expenses-paid two-night stay at the accommodation of their choice (that they voted for), accompanied by two unique experiences in the region.
Where you stay while on holiday is so much more than a place to sleep. It’s about warm memories made and stories to relay, it’s about time spent with family and friends, reconnecting and relaxing while disconnecting from the mad rush of daily lives. Accommodation forms the starting point and backbone of every great adventure and getaway and so Bergrivier Tourism has launching this competition to celebrate and showcase the amazing selection of accommodation available in the Bergrivier region.
The Bergrivier Accommodation Competition is running until the 10th of April 2024. For more information and to cast your vote to stand a chance to win please visit: https://bergriviertourism.co.za/accommodation-campaign/.
For more information on top recommended staycation destinations visit www.bergriviertourism.co.za.