As the excitement built for the Art for All 2024 weekend, visitors were invited to immerse themselves in the captivating charm of Porterville. From 4 to 6 October, this quaint town, nestled at the foot of the majestic Olifants Mountains, came alive with creativity, offering a perfect escape just 150 km from Cape Town. With its picturesque streets, vibrant local eateries, and stunning mountain backdrop, Porterville was the ideal setting for this much-anticipated celebration of art and culture. The town exuded a warm and welcoming atmosphere, inviting visitors to explore its many attractions at a relaxed pace. With everything within walking distance, it was easy to meander through the various exhibitions, discovering hidden gems at every turn. With 12 dynamic venues, Art for All 2024 showcased an eclectic mix of art across multiple mediums and styles. From bold contemporary works to intricate ceramics, each space brimmed with unique artistic expressions. Whether visitors were drawn to painting, sculpture, or mixed media, these venues offered an unmissable opportunity to experience art in all its forms. It was a vibrant artistic journey waiting to be explored! Previous Next The heart of the event at Venue 3 Mountville House, which served as the information hub for the weekend. There, visitors could meet fellow art lovers, grab a coffee from local barista Eric of Berg Coffee, and savor delicious gourmet burgers (with a veggie option available) and local snacks. This venue was also home to one of the festival’s highlights: Hennie Meyer’s exhibition, “Attic/Solder.” Known for his exquisite ceramic work, Hennie’s show promised to captivate visitors with its delicate intricacies and creative flair. Previous Next As visitors ventured further, venues like 60 Voortrekker Street enticed them with unique offerings, such as a craft gin pairing by prominent local gin maker Ben Scheepers. His Donkey Gin experience added a refreshing twist to their art-filled excursion. Previous Next   The serene Houdconstant Farm provided a tranquil retreat where visitors could relax under the trees with tea, coffee, and freshly made pomegranate and citrus juices. For those looking to engage their creative side, Aniki Pasqu’s Paint and Pour session on Saturday morning offered a delightful opportunity to unleash their inner artist while soaking in the natural beauty around them. Previous Next Beyond the art, Porterville offered plenty to see and do. Visitors could enjoy a myriad of local eateries, all while taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Whether they indulged in a delicious meal at one of the town’s restaurants or grabbed a quick bite at one of the food stalls, there was something to satisfy every palate. For those wanting to make the most of the weekend, staying over was highly recommended. With its charming guesthouses and cozy accommodations, Porterville provided the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing guests to fully appreciate everything the Art for All weekend had to offer. As visitors explored the town, they could visit the local shops, where you can find handcrafted goods, antiques, and souvenirs that reflect the unique character and creativity of Porterville. While exploring, visitors were encouraged to take part in the Art 4 All giveaway by scanning the QR code at each venue for a chance to win a local Porterville hamper, including an original piece of artwork. This was just one of the many ways guests could take a little piece of Porterville home with them. Whether they were art enthusiasts, lovers of small-town charm, or simply in need of a weekend getaway, Art for All 2024 promised an unforgettable experience where art, culture, and natural beauty came together in perfect harmony. For more information on the event visit Art For All Porterville 2024 – Bergrivier Tourism.

If you thought spring was just about dusting off your allergy meds, think again! This year, as she does every year, Mother Nature is throwing a floral fiesta across the Cape West Coast and inland regions, and the Bergrivier area is rolling out the red carpet (and pink, white, orange, blue, yellow, purple – you get the idea). To help visitors enjoy the best of the flower season, the team at Bergrivier Tourism have put together a list of the region’s flower power hotspots! Flower Power Destinations and Must-See Events 1. Velddrif: Bokkoms, Blooms, and Birdwatching First stop, Velddrif – a charming village perched on the banks of the Berg River, where flowers, fresh fish, and fabulous birdlife coexist in perfect harmony. Wander down Bokkomlaan, where the flowers aren’t the only things steeped in local flavour. Here, historic buildings, eclectic shops, and jetties line a 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) – offering more photo ops than your Instagram can handle. And if you’re in town on a Saturday, head over to the Velddrif Village Market. It’s like a treasure hunt but with homemade jams and artisanal crafts as your prize. 2. Support Your Local Flower Hero for the ultimate flower-powered experience, buy proteas directly from Haiynes Luyt, a community-based flower seller in Noordhoek, Velddrif. His blooms are as beautiful as they are affordable—what’s not to love? Previous Next 3. Aurora: The Little Town with Big Views (and Bigger Blooms) Next, we’re off to Aurora, the best-kept secret of flower enthusiasts and anyone who’s ever wished they could live in a postcard. This town may be small, but its blooms are big and bold. Make sure to visit the majestic Dutch Reformed Church—where the architecture is as impressive as the town’s mountain backdrop.  Previous Next 4. Piketberg: Where History Meets Horticulture Piketberg isn’t just another pretty place to stop and smell the flowers—though it’s definitely that too. This town, nestled at the foot of its namesake mountain, is a veritable time machine with its historic buildings and well-preserved architecture. Take a trip down memory lane with the Piketberg Historic Route, which leads you past 12 fascinating points of interest. From August 25th to 31st, the town’s NG Kerk is hosting “Blomweek 2024,” where you can feast your eyes on floral arrangements that make your garden at home look, well, pretty average. And for those who enjoy a good market, the Piket-Bo-Berg Farmers Market on August 31st is the place to be. Think of it as a farmer’s market but with extra charm sprinkled on top. Previous Next 5. Porterville: Flowers, Art, and a Dash of Magic Finally, we arrive in Porterville, where the flowers are just as captivating as the local art scene. Known as the home of the rare Disa Uniflora, this town is a haven for both nature lovers and culture vultures. After a day of frolicking among the flowers, take a stroll through the town’s many art studios. It’s like a museum, but without the “do not touch” signs. Previous Next 6. Flower-Scented Shopping and Farmstalls No trip to Bergrivier is complete without stopping by some of the region’s farmstalls. Whether you’re after a delicious meal, fresh produce, hand-made artisanal crafts, or quirky souvenirs, these spots have got you covered: Kardoesie (in the Piekenierskloof Pass on the way to Citrusdal on the N7): Perfect for a pit stop on the way to flower-filled adventures. Desert Rose Koringberg (on the N7 at the turn-off to Koringberg): A must-visit gem with treats that are as delightful as the blooms outside. This farmstall was also a top contender in the KFM Best of the Cape Awards. Skrik van Rondom (on the Redelinghuys road): Don’t let the name scare you; this place is all about good vibes and even better snacks. Deli on Main (Dwarskersbos): A deli that dishes up deliciousness daily – and also a contender in the Best of the Cape Awards. Make Your Plans Now! This flower season in the Bergrivier region is shaping up to be one for the record books due to the heavy rainfall, so don’t miss out! Whether you’re snapping pics of the flowers, exploring quaint towns, or indulging in a high tea, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Flower Info

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.

“The family that adventures together, thrives together” Family adventure holidays have become a hugely popular option for South African families who are increasingly choosing fun and memorable experiences and excursions over more sedate and traditional holiday options.   Lounging in the sun on the beach or next to the pool has its place in every summer holiday, but when interspersed with adventure experiences such as canoeing, sailing, rock climbing, horse riding – the list is extensive – a family holiday becomes a memory of a lifetime. Here is a list of five key reasons why you should choose a family adventure holiday this summer:  1. Challenge yourselvesSome of our best personal qualities come from challenging ourselves. Succeeding at a challenge provides a real sense of accomplishment – and for children in particular, it can give them a huge confidence boost. Adventure holidays give everyone a personal challenge, whether it’s conquering a fear of heights, or having the confidence to paddle on a river. Achievement can even come from having a go at something you didn’t think you would like or enjoy.  2. Share incredible experiencesThere’s no greater way to maximise your quality time together as a family than by taking part in fun experiences together. These shared experiences create memories for life. When you are laughing together; when you watch your children experience something for the first time; when you collectively conquer a fear; when you all sleep out under the stars together; or sit around the campfire telling stories – these are all precious times that will imprint into your memory forever. These magical moments are priceless. 3. Keep fitOutdoor pursuits are a great way to keep fit! An adventure holiday gives you lots of opportunities to get out and about moving, and to find an outdoor activity you enjoy and can take up on your return home as a way to exercise. For children, inspiring a love of the outdoors from a young age helps encourage a love for fitness. 4. Strengthen family bondsA study has shown that shared adventurous activities foster open communication, encourage solidarity, and create a stronger sense of shared memories, all of which help to build a better family dynamic. 5. It will make you happierAdventure holidays that involve being outdoors and active can make you feel happier and calmer. Exercise has many documented health benefits which in turn impact your mental health. Coupled with being out in nature – it’s a winning recipe for improved wellbeing. According to Nomonde Ndlangisa, CEO of Bergrivier Tourism, they have spotted some trends amongst visitors to the Bergrivier region which show that families are taking more and more activity and adventure holidays. “The desire for this kind of holiday has never been greater and the ability to swap screen time for family time is being sought by an increasing number of families. Parents want to get to know their children again, to see bonds between siblings strengthen and to create long-lasting memories.” Ndlangisa provides some tips on family adventure destinations and activities to try this summer which are right on Cape Town’s doorstep: The Bergrivier region is known as the adventure capital of the Western Cape for a reason,” says Ndlangisa. “There is so much on offer that adventure-seeking families will be spoilt for choice! The region is also renowned for its untamed natural beauty, boasting breathtaking landscapes, from rugged mountain ranges to tranquil riverbanks. Families can hike, bike, and explore to their heart’s content.” VelddrifThe hugely popular West Coast village of Velddrif hugs the banks of the beautiful Berg River. This lovely town is perfectly located to offer a myriad of activities to families who are water-sport enthusiasts – such as canoeing and kayaking, boat trips up the Berg River, sailing, surfing, skiing, kite-boarding, stand-up paddling in the river – and so much more.  The Berg River is also a fishing hotspot and is one of the most popular bird-watching sites in South Africa. Be sure to visit the renowned Bokkom Laan (also a Heritage Site) – the oldest road in the town that snakes up the edge of the Berg River. For places to stay, you can choose from a selection of cottages and lodges situated along the Bergrivier River, offering both relaxation and immediate access to adventurous activities. Piketberg Piketberg, which is nestled at the foot of the Piketberg Mountain range, draws adventure-seeking families looking to enjoy – amongst many other things – the stunning natural surrounds and the abundant outdoor activities.  Amongst these is hiking, mountain biking, camping, canoeing, fishing and 4x4ing. “A highly recommended activity to try in Piketberg is the Historic Walking route, and for adventurous families, a top destination to stay and play is the Klein Tafelberg adventure centre,” says Ndlangisa. PortervilleLast but certainly not least on the list of highly recommended towns to visit this summer in pursuit of family 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 and mountain biking trails to fascinating destinations 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.  “Whether it is camping, birdwatching, river cruising, canoeing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, or horse-riding – there are so many adventures to be had in the Bergrivier area that families are truly spoilt for choice,” concludes Ndlangisa.