Outdoor Adventure

“Life is like a ten speed bicycle. Most of us have gears we never use.” Charles M. Schulz A vast network of gravel roads criss-crosses the Bergrivier Tourism Region and Swartland surrounds. From the economic hub of Piketberg cyclists can explore the mountain bike mecca of Piket-Bo-Berg or grind along district road and jeep tracks to towns like Aurora, Goedverwacht and Redelinghuys. Accommodation option abound too, as do cyclist friendly restaurants, farm stalls and coffee shops. “We are exceptionally excited about our new Piketberg Mountain Gravel-Road Circuit,” Nomonde Ndlangisa, CEO: Bergrivier Tourism Organisation, stated. “It’s a great addition to the Bergrivier’s ‘Adventure Capital’ product portfolio and will bring much needed exposure to the scenic towns of Redelinghuys, Aurora and Goedverwacht. They are, small, rural towns which fall in the Bergrivier region and which offer a massive array of activities and adventures to suite all ages, interests and budgets.” “This beautiful area boasts some of the most pristine and untouched nature reserves, mountain landscapes and open spaces,” Ndlangisa continued. “Mountain- and gravel- biking is becoming ever-more popular, and those that follow the sport are increasingly looking for exciting locations, experiences, and local adventures in off-the-beaten-track destinations. The new cycling route, situated just over an hour’s drive from Cape Town, certainly delivers.” The region has long been famed for its singletrack, thanks to events like the Piket-Bo-Berg Cycle Challenge and The U stage race. But with the growth in gravel riding, locally and internationally, the dusty back roads of the Bergrivier have begun to draw riders in greater numbers. The Piketberg Mountain Gravel-Road Circuit aims to provide an easy-to-follow route which gravel grinders and bikepackers can ride as an introduction to cycling in the area. Thereafter the open road awaits, with Bergrivier Tourism happy to point cyclists in the direction of adventure. The four-day circuit takes in 285-kilometres of riding, with 3 900-metres of elevation gain, and is divided into manageable chunks. The 98-kilometre final day is even designed as an optional extra, dropping the total distance to just 187-kilometres over a long-weekend. Starting in Aurora, 35-kilometres from Piketberg, the three-day loop ends in back in the village named after the Roman goddess of dawn. Adding a fourth day will take riders to Piketberg, from where a comfortable 70-minute drive, down the N7, will take cyclists back to the urban heart of Cape Town. As such the Piketberg Mountain Gravel-Road Circuit is readily accessible to the vast majority of Western Cape based riders. Day 1 takes in 48-kilometres and traces the south western slopes of the Piket-Bo-Berg Mountain before ascending through the Moravian Mission village of Goedverwacht. Riders can choose to camp at Januariesfontein, or push on a further 5km to complete the 48km route and stay at any number of premium self-catering or B&B destinations. Those opting for the stunning Retreat Guest Farm or Highlands Eco Estate will have additional access to some superb singletrack trails as well. Day 2 then descends along the tarmac Versveld Pass, offering breath-taking views of the Swartland plains towards the Winterhoek Mountains, before turning north and curving west to Redelinghuys. After a 79-kilometre day in the saddle the platteland hospitality and hearty cuisine of Affi Plaas Country Bed & Breakfast will certainly be very welcome. As will a good night’s sleep ahead of the toughest day’s riding. The third day of the trip boast two options. To either head straight to Aurora or to divert into the mountains once more, to explore the Danielshoogte Private Nature Reserve. The latter option is the more adventurous one, but ensures that the day features 1 330-metres of climbing in just 58-kilometres. It is well worth it though, as the fynbos reserve also offers views across the Strandveld to St Helena Bay, on the West Coast, and south to Table Mountain, in Cape Town, on a clear day. Having conquered the out and back route up the Danielshoogte Pass and back to Aurora a night at the Rooi Granaat may well rejuvenate riders enough to take on an extra day. Day 4 heads south to Sauer before cutting through the Bo Berg, along the Kapteinskloof valley and past Banghoek Private Nature Reserve. The final 40-kilometres, of the 98-kilometre ride, are on asphalt along the R366, making for a fast finale and an enjoyable ride into Piketberg. In total the Piketberg Mountain Gravel-Road Circuit features a 40/60 mix of tarmac and gravel, making it the ideal trip for less-experienced gravel grinders. For the hardened off-roaders the options abound, especially for those looking for consecutive 100-kilometre days. But perhaps an easier introduction to the area is required first. Think of it as an adventure where exploration and site-seeing are the key objectives, rather than ticking off distance. Going too fast, in order to go far, could lead one to missing circling jackal- and steppe buzzards, black eagles, bat-eared fox, steenbok and a host of other small animals, not to mention the region’s unique floral features. More info on Piketberg Mountain Gravel-Road Circuit is available at either piketberg.bergriviertourism.co.za or on www.mtbroutes.co.za. Cyclists can preview the routes here – or even download GPX files – and also check out suggested accommodation options and a list of must-visit locations along the way. 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Make 2022 your year of Adventure with these Top Travel Destinations – All on Cape Town’s Doorstep A brand-new year brings fresh new opportunities, and if you are like so many others of us, then you may well be feeling a yearning for adventure this year, to get out there and make memories, to gather experiences, to satisfy your wanderlust! The good news is that seekers of local adventures in off-the-beaten-track destinations can find all they are looking for right on Cape Town’s doorstep in the Bergrivier region – a beautiful area known for its open spaces and dramatic landscapes, which is peppered with small towns that offer a huge array of activities and adventures. The Bergrivier region offers incredible outdoor, water sport, and camping options – to name a few.  Adventure comes in so many different shapes and sizes, and the area also offers unique culinary and cultural adventures – there truly is something for every taste, interest and fitness level! So as this new year gets underway, for those looking to get out and about, read on for a list of some of the top must-do adventures for 2022 – and where to find them. VelddrifThe West Coast village of Velddrif hugs the banks of the Berg River, just a few kilometers from where the river enters the ocean at St Helena Bay. This lovely town is one of the most popular bird-watching sites in South Africa and top bird watching spots in the area include Rocher Pan, Rooibaai, and Laaiplek harbour. Take a cruise up the Berg River for the best bird watching experience. Velddrif is perfectly located to offer a myriad of activities to water-sport enthusiasts, such as canoeing and kayaking, boat trips on the Crackling Rosie, Knot Xtreme and Tollie’s River Cruises, sailing with Port Owen Sailing Charters, surfing, skiing, kite-boarding, stand-up paddling – and so much more.  The Berg River is also a fishing hotspot. For some surf fishing try the Dwarskersbos beach by the Soverby Lapa. When it comes to camping, Velddrif has many options such as the Kliphoek Rivier Oord, Kuifkopvisvanger camp site, Knorvarkie, Happy Campers, and the camp site in Dwarskersbos. For a culinary adventure be sure to try Bokkoms (salted and dried fish -a unique West Coast delicacy) in Bokkom Laan or visit the Kokerboom Kaas Creamery to sample their range of artisanal cheeses. There are many options for fresh seafood, from the Riviera Hotel, which boasts a prime spot on the Bergriver, to the fine dining to be experienced at Russels On The Port in Port Owen. Velddrif is in fact a foodie’s paradise – this area offers it all from eclectic and rustic to fine-dining or take-aways enjoyed as fun family picnics. Those looking for a cultural experience will love a visit to the historic Bokkom Laan which is the oldest road in the town – and a Heritage site – that snakes up the edge of the Berg River. Visit the art gallery and eclectic shops dotted along this quaint dirt road – all businesses that are run out of quaint, historic old fishing sheds. The Fisheries Museum near the Laaiplek harbour is also well worth a visit to find out about the colourful history of the fishing industry along this coast. PiketbergPiketberg, which is nestled at the foot of the Piketberg Mountain range, draws visitors looking to enjoy the stunning natural surrounds and the abundant outdoor activities. Amongst these is the newly developed hiking trail from Goedverwacht to Piket-Bo-Berg. For mountain bike enthusiasts there is an excellent trail on the Retreat Guest Farm which can be arranged for day visitors. Kleine Paradys is well worth a visit, and offers camping, canoeing, and fishing on a catch and release basis. Another recommended camp site is Kruistementvlei in Piket-Bo-Berg. For bird lovers the nearby Verlorenvlei at Redelinghuys is an incredible spot. The Jakkalskloof 4×4 route in Redelinghuys is a great outing for 4×4 enthusiasts and game viewing is available at the Goudkop Bush & Detox Camp. For history buffs, Piketberg boasts a unique and fascinating self-guided tour which takes visitors on a journey back in time to experience the rich history and historic buildings of this beautiful village. The Piketberg Historical Route is the best way to experience the heritage of this town, with its gorgeously restored cottages and the imposing neo-gothic style Dutch Reformed Church. Good news for visitors is that the town, and nearby surrounds, offers a wide selection of eateries to cater to all tastes. A visit to Org-de-Rac, the local organic winery, is a must to sample their wine and cheese pairing, as well as the fresh oysters served with Methode Cap Classique. PortervilleLast but certainly not least on the list of highly recommended towns to visit for your 2022 adventures is Porterville, a quaint village nestled on the slopes of the Olifant’s River Mountains at the base of the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area. Long known as the paragliding and hang-gliding capital, Porterville offers a variety of hiking trails to fascinating destinations like De Hel (the hell) and De Tronk (the jail) in the Groot Winterhoek, where impressive rock formations can be found. There is also an uphill waterfall trail at Waterval (a hugely popular camping spot) which is dotted with 22 waterfalls snaking their way down the mountainside, interspersed with crystal clear pools for a cooling dip. For those keen to truly test their adrenalin levels, there are companies which offer tandem-paragliding and hang-gliding experiences off the Dasklip Pass and at Pampoenfontein. Bird watchers can also expect to find an abundance of feathered friends at Pampoenfontein, Beaverlac (another incredibly popular camping site) and in the Groot Winterhoek. Those keen to throw in a line can opt for some fishing at the local municipal dam in Porterville as well as the privately owned dam on the Houdconstant Farm. Every Saturday visitors can also pop in at the Houdconstant Country Market which offers something for everyone, from delicious food to tractor and pony rides for

South Africans are embracing travel and getting out and about to satisfy their wanderlust.  Covid has changed the way people travel, with many looking for local adventures in off-the-beaten-track destinations – and the Bergrivier region, situated right on Cape Town’s doorstep, certainly delivers!  The Bergrivier region is a beautiful area – known for its open spaces and dramatic landscapes – which is peppered with small towns that offer a vast array of activities and adventure options.  The area also boasts some of the most pristine and untouched nature reserves, wetlands, lagoons, mountain landscapes and more. The perfect local adventure far from the maddening crowds For those looking to get out and about, below is a list of some of the top camping spots, hiking and mountain biking trails, 4×4 routes, watersports, bird watching, and other must-do activities for this summer – and where to find them. VelddrifThe hugely popular West Coast village of Velddrif hugs the banks of the beautiful Berg River, just a few kilometers from where the river enters the ocean at St Helena Bay. This lovely town is one of the most popular bird-watching sites in South Africa, with the tidal mudflats and salt marshes presenting more than 220 species of birds – including rare waders seldom seen elsewhere. Top bird watching spots in the area include Rocher Pan, the historic Bokkomlaan, Rooibaai, and Laaiplek harbour. Take a cruise on one of the local boats and go further up the Berg River for the best bird watching experience. Velddrif is perfectly located to offer a myriad of activities to water-sport enthusiasts, with many options available, such as canoeing and kayaking, boat trips on the Crackling Rosie, Knot Xtreme and Tollie’s River Cruises, sailing with Port Owen Sailing Charters, surfing at Dwarskersbos, skiing, kite-boarding, stand-up paddling in the river – and so much more.  The Berg River is also a fishing hotspot and those in the know recommend casting your line at the train bridge, Carinus bridge, or at the Laaiplek harbour.  For some surf fishing try the Dwarskersbos beach by the Soverby Lapa.  Velddrif also offers golf at the Bergrivier golf course and club, which includes a popular driving range. When it comes to camping, Velddrif has many options such as the Kliphoek Rivier Oord, Kuifkopvisvanger camp site, Knorvarkie, Happy Campers, and the camp site in Dwarskersbos. Piketberg Piketberg, which is nestled at the foot of the Piketberg Mountain range, draws visitors looking to enjoy – amongst many other things – the stunning natural surrounds and the abundant outdoor activities.  Amongst these is the newly developed hiking trail from Goedverwacht to Piket-Bo-Berg. For mountain bike enthusiasts there is an excellent trail on the Retreat Guest Farm which can be arranged for day visitors. Kleine Paradys is well worth a visit, and offers camping, canoeing, and fishing on a catch and release basis.  Another recommended camp site is Kruistementvlei in Piket-Bo-Berg. For bird lovers the nearby Verlorenvlei at Redelinghuys is an incredible spot – the vlei provides feeding, nesting and roosting sites for many bird species and waterbirds seen here include herons, egrets, ibises, spoonbills, and flamingos. The Jakkalskloof 4×4 route in Redelinghuys is a great outing for 4×4 enthusiasts. For the adventurous keen to try their hand at paragliding, Piketberg offers a launching point in the Versfeld Pass on the way to Piket-Bo-Berg.  Piketberg also boasts game viewing at the Goudkop Bush & Detox Camp, and golf at the PPC De Hoek Golf Course.  On the last Saturday of every month is the Piket Bo-Berg Farmers Market, which takes place on the Kruistementvlei Farm in the mountains above Piketberg from 09h00 to 12h00.  This event has become an institution for locals and visitors alike – attracting foodies from as far afield as Cape Town who drive through to purchase the hand-crafted items and farm fresh produce. Porterville Last but certainly not least on the list of highly recommended towns to visit this summer in pursuit of adventure is Porterville, a quaint village nestled on the slopes of the Olifant’s River Mountains at the base of the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area. Long known as the paragliding and hang-gliding capital, outdoor enthusiasts are in for a treat with a visit to Porterville, which offers a variety of hiking trails to fascinating destinations like De Hel (the hell) and De Tronk (the jail) in the Groot Winterhoek, where impressive rock formations can be found. There is also an uphill waterfall trail at Waterval (a hugely popular camping spot) which is dotted with 22 waterfalls snaking their way down the mountainside, interspersed with crystal clear pools for a cooling dip.  For those keen to truly test their adrenalin levels, there are companies which offer tandem-paragliding and hang-gliding experiences off the Dasklip Pass and at Pampoenfontein. Bird watchers can also expect to find an abundance of feathered friends at Pampoenfontein, Beaverlac (another incredibly popular camping site) and in the Groot Winterhoek.  Those keen to throw in a line can opt for some fishing at the local municipal dam in Porterville as well as the privately owned dam on the Houdconstant Farm. Golfers are not forgotten, and Porterville boasts a scenic golf course with a beautiful mountain backdrop. Every Saturday visitors can also pop in at the Houdconstant Country Market which offers something for everyone, from delicious food to tractor and pony rides for the children. Whether it is camping, birdwatching, river cruising, canoeing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horse-riding, paragliding, or golfing – there are so many adventures to be had in the Bergrivier area that visitors are truly spoilt for choice, which is great news for people yearning to grab life with both hands. All these towns promise a great escape for the entire family, but without huge crowds, meaning visitors can keep to Covid distancing protocols as well. For more information on these towns and where to stay, eat and things to do visit our Adventure page