Annual Velddriff Swim- Fun for the Whole Family
Annual Velddriff Swim- Fun for the Whole Family
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Weekend Long Art & Lifestyle Festival – Proudly Porterville
The fifth annual Proudly Porterville art and lifestyle weekend is set to take place from Friday 30 September to Sunday the 2rd of October. Proudly Porterville offers visitors with the chance to view and purchase a wide variety of art from both emerging and acclaimed artists – with art ranging from paintings, jewellery, and ceramics to bespoke tableware, woodwork, mosaics, crochet, quilting, beading and more. In addition to the arts, the event also offers up an itinerary of live music, workshops, culinary experiences, outdoor activities, fun children’s events and more. Held in the beautiful country town of Porterville, this popular art experience has become a firm favourite on the events calendar, and every year sees new and exciting additions to the line-up of artists, venues, exhibitions and activities. This year visitors can expect a picnic under the stars on the Friday night, an artisanal gin tasting experience, a community market selling a myriad of local crafts and foods, and a cooking show and dinner hosted by Jenny Morris on the Saturday. Must-visit venues The Porterville community rallies together to take part in this exciting event, and multiple venues throughout the town will be showcasing the work of a myriad of local and visiting artists. Many of these venues are in the artists own studios and homes where visitors can view and purchase art straight off the easel. New on the line-up of venues to visit this year is The Cowshed, a beautifully restored and revamped old working cowshed in Frank Avenue, which will be showcasing the ceramic work of artists such as Amelia Jacobs, husband and wife duo Jacques and Adelaide Uilenbosch, Karin Schimke, and James Retief. Visitors will also have a chance to try their hand at throwing a small vessel on a wheel or to glaze a ready-made cup for a raku firing. Other must visit locations are Die Lighuis, Poppie and Picasso, The Red Tricycle, and the Jan Danckaert Museum. Artists to anticipate Some of the artists to anticipate at Proudly Porterville include Alna Prodgers, Andre du Toit, JP Meyer, Anneke Pasque, Carin Dorrington, Joey Koen, Katja Abbott & Paul Kristafor. Maria Van Graan and many, many more. Also look out for work by artists such as Marietjie Nieuwoudt, Wilna Crafford, Yoko Reijn, Anya Lourens, Arend Louw, Clare Menck, Annelie Janse van Rensburg, Stephanus du Toit, Lynn Joubert, Amelia Keefer, Amelia Jacobs, Andries Samuel, Karin Schimke, James Retief, Con-Li Halvorsen, Estelle Haward, Kevin Stanley, Cathy van der Westhuizen, Anneke Smuts, Maria van Graan, Jerald Blaber, Isobel Knox and Eleton Jagels. Food, fun and moreThis highly anticipated weekend provides an opportunity for art lovers, foodies, families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a city escape to get out and about, make memories, and have fun. There truly is something at Proudly Porterville for everyone. Invest in some art; stock up on fresh local produce and other delicacies; enjoy a delicious meal at one of several top restaurants in town; go mountain biking or running on the beautiful local trails; taste the locally produced gin; relax and savour small town life – the list goes on. Nearly all the attractions are within walking distance from each other, so visitors can park and stroll through the town, enjoying the art exhibitions, stopping for a meal, buying local fare – all with a beautiful mountain backdrop as Porterville is nestled at the foot of the Olifants Mountains. Porterville is only 150 km’s from Cape Town so close enough for a day trip. However, visitors are encouraged to stay over for the entire weekend to make the most of the experience. Tickets are not required for the Proudly Porterville weekend as entry is free, but accommodation bookings, restaurant reservations and workshop bookings are recommended ahead of the time due to demand. For more information visit https://porterville.bergriviertourism.co.za/ or contact Porterville Tourism Office (022-931 3732). Share: Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Related Posts
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Why the Small Western Cape Town of Aurora is a Must Visit this Spring
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. Image provided by Arend Louw 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. Image provided by Arend Louw Share: Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Related Posts
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Spring into a road trip:
Top spots to experience the annual flower spectacle
“What a lonely place it would be to have a world without a wildflower!” Roland R. Kemler A riot of colorful indigenous blooms carpet the landscape every year along the Cape west coast and inland up to Namaqualand – an annual spectacle that draws visitors from across the globe. Hotspots to visit in August and September that offer wonderful flower sightings, as well as fun things to see and do, are the towns of Velddrif, Aurora, Piketberg and Porterville in the Bergrivier district – 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. Blooming good places to visit & stay The popular town of Velddrif hugs the banks of the Berg River, a few kilometres from where the river enters the ocean at St Helena Bay. Visitors can look forward to a profusion of flowers to be enjoyed in the area, while also soaking up the welcoming lifestyle of this coastal village – which offers an abundance of activities, accommodation options, and eateries to suite all tastes. No trip to Velddrif is complete without a visit to the famous Bokkomlaan. Fringed by the Great Berg River this quaint dirt road is scattered with a cluster of historic buildings and jetties. In addition to the flower-filled scenery, visitors can expect to spot a vast array of birdlife in the Berg River estuary – rated as one of the most important birding areas in the world. On Saturday 06 August there are a variety of events taking place in Velddrif. These include a flower workshop and exhibition at the SA Fisheries Museum, and a fun flower colour run on the Kruispad Farm – with a 5km and 10km route to choose from, and a fancy-dress competition for the best-dressed flower themed costume. Visitors can also opt to experience the west coast flowers with a 90-minute tractor ride through the indigenous fynbos on a farm that boast a vast tract of stunning blooms. Just inland from Velddrif, along a stretch of country road that promises wonderful flower sightings, lies the picturesque town of Aurora. This small village offers visitors the chance to look forward to carpets of flowers, dramatic mountain scenery, beautiful architecture, incredible night skies, and a wide variety of bird life. Be sure to visit the impressive Dutch Reformed Church while in town, and take a drive up the mountain to the Danielshoogte Private Reserve to experience spectacular views of the valley. On clear days, Table Mountain and St Helena Bay can be seen. On the 10th of September flower enthusiasts can take part in a guided flower walk at the Danielshoogte Private Reserve – an up close and personal experience through mountain fynbos and stunning rock formations. The Koekeloer @ Koffiemoer Coffee Shop in Aurora is highly recommended for hungry travelers – and on the 9th of August visitors can look forward to a flower inspired high tea experience. Another 50km inland from Aurora will see flower-loving road-trippers finding their way to the town of Piketberg, which is nestled at the foot of the Piketberg Mountain range and surrounded by a tapestry of wheat fields, vineyards, fruit farms and indigenous fynbos bearing beautiful blooms in Spring. The best way to experience the heritage of this town, with its meticulously restored cottages and the spectacular neo-gothic style Dutch Reformed Church, is by doing the Piketberg Historic Route – a tour that takes visitors to the Commercial Hotel, old Sheriff’s Office and original police station, the original bioscope, and the Piketberg Museum. In total the route has 12 points of interest and visitors can walk or drive to each at their leisure. To celebrate spring and the flower season, from the 22nd to the 26th of August visitors can join guided historic tours, and the church will be open to the public for viewing over this time – with a flower arranging event taking place on the 26th. While in Piketberg, don’t miss Last Friday – a food and art festival that takes place across the village on the last Friday of every month – with August’s event taking place on the 26th. Visitors can expect a celebration of arts, culture, live music and delicious artisanal foods and drinks. On Saturday the 27th a trip up the mountain to Piket-Bo-Berg is a must to visit the Farmers Market, which boasts a plethora of hand-crafted items, farm fresh produce, and artisanal food and drink. Share: Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Related Posts
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5 Reasons why you should try Watersports – and where to go to find a Unique Aqua Adventure
Watersports are a hugely popular pastime for many South Africans who make the most of our warm climate to get out there, have fun, make memories, and get wild and wet. A few reasons why watersports are so popular include the fact that they’re great fun, they’re good exercise out in the fresh air (making it good for the mind and the body), they’re a great activity for all ages (with something on offer for almost everyone), they offer a sense of freedom, and you can find places to do watersports inlands and at the coast – anywhere that offers rivers, dams, and of course, the ocean. If you have always wanted to try watersports but are unsure of how, or where, to get started, or if you are already a watersports fan but wondering where to go to enjoy your next memorable aqua adventure then look no further than Velddrif in the Bergrivier region – the Adventure Capital of the West Coast. This beautiful area – right on Cape Town’s doorstep and known for its open spaces and dramatic landscapes – boasts some of the most pristine and untouched nature reserves, wetlands, lagoons, rivers, mountain landscapes and more. The hugely popular West Coast town of Velddrif, which hugs the banks of the beautiful Berg River, is a watersports mecca! Some of the watersport activities on offer here include fishing – both ocean and river; stand up paddling; skiing; wind surfing; surfing at Dwarskersbos; canoeing and kayaking – either with your own equipment or with Canoe & Kayak World or Berg River Kayaks; paddle boating in the Port Owen Marina; sailing with Port Owen Sailing Charters; or river cruises up the Berg River with Cracklin’ Rosie River Tours or Knot Xtreme Bergrivier Boat Cruises. Places to stay in Velddrif that offer access to the water to engage in your favourite watersports include Happy Campers on the Berg River with campers enjoying their own private jetty’s; the Kliphoek River Resort with a slip way to launch your boat; Knorvarkie, another gem on the banks of the Berg River; Kuifkopvisvanger, also on the banks of the river; the Stywelyne Beach Resort in Laaiplek right next to the beach; as well as the Dwarskersbos Beach Resort, right on the beach in Dwarskersbos. This lovely town is also 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. When it comes to watersport options in the Bergrivier area, visitors are truly spoilt for choice and there is a reason that the area has been dubbed as the Adventure Capital of the West Coast. For more information on the Bergrivier regiom and where to go for your next watersport adventure, as well as other things to see and do, visit https://bergriviertourism.co.za/ Share: Share on facebook Facebook Share on twitter Twitter Share on pinterest Pinterest Share on linkedin LinkedIn Related Posts
Gravel Grinder’s Guide to Piketberg
“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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Culinary Capers on Cape Towns Doorstep: Adventures for the Foodie
“There is no sincerer love than the love of food.” George Bernard Shaw According to Google, the term “foodie” first started trending in 2004. 18 years on and foodies continue to rise in numbers as more people profess, and explore, their love for the world of food and drink. Hand in hand with this is the growing trend of culinary tourism as foodies seek out new and exciting gastronomic adventures.Good news for foodies who are interested in exploring new places to try out adventurous dishes and culinary experiences, is that the Bergrivier region (which is right on Cape Town’s doorstep, and includes small towns such as Velddrif, Aurora, Piketberg and Porterville) offers some great culinary adventures set in beautiful locations, offered by warm and hospitable locals, using some of the finest local produce and talents. “The Bergrivier region is known for its open spaces and dramatic landscapes, but it is also peppered with small towns that offer a massive array of culinary experiences to suite all ages, tastes and budgets,” says Nomonde Ndlangisa, CEO of Bergrivier Tourism, who provides the following insights on where to find the best spots to satisfy your travelling tastebuds: VelddrifThe hugely popular West Coast village of Velddrif, which hugs the banks of the beautiful Berg River, offers a wealth of culinary adventures and experiences to foodies. On the historic, and quaint dirt road of Bokkom Laan, visitors can enjoy a meal on the edge of the Berg River at the eclectic and rustic Ek & Djy Vissery. Bokkom Laan is also the epicentre of the Bokkoms industry and no culinary caper is complete without tasting this traditional and unique West Coast delicacy of salted and dried fish. If you are less keen on the dried and salted version Ek & Djy offer a freshly braaied version – also a local traditional food. For lovers of a traditional dish, a must-visit spot is the River Shack Restaurant at Knor Varkie, on the edge of the river, where one can order a plate of kerrie afval (curried intestines). Velddrif is the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood served at a variety of establishments, such as Die Pont restaurant at the Riviera Hotel on the banks of the Berg River, Soverby Lapa on the beach on the way to Dwarskersbos, and Russell’s On the Port on the marina in Port Owen, which offers a fine dining experience. The River Market Restaurant, at Pelican Harbour, also offers South African favourites such as snoek pate and kerrie vis, or try the spade full (yes, literally) of chicken wings. Cheese lovers are in for a treat at Kokerboom Kaas where artisanal cheeses made from locally sourced milk are available to taste and purchase. While in the Port Owen marina be sure to visit the Poetic License distillery for an artisanal gin tasting experience, as well as Charlies Brewhouse to sample the craft beers. For a sweet treat to round out the day, grab an ice cream cone from the Lighthouse giftshop at the Laaiplek harbour and savour it while admiring the fishing boats. PiketbergVisitors to Piketberg, which is nestled at the foot of the Piketberg Mountain range, can look forward to, amongst other delicacies, fresh oysters served with Cap Classique bubbly at the Org de Rac wine farm just outside the village. In the centre of town, in a beautiful historical building, is Berg Coffee where lovers of a fine brew can expect a premium artisanal coffee experience. Also in town is the Café Bravo restaurant, serving up a wide selection of freshly prepared food. Heading towards the Piekenierskloof Pass, a stop at De Tol Farm Deli is a must to enjoy freshly squeezed orange juice and what is said to be the best cup of coffee along the N7 – accompanied by a warm roosterkoek with a selection of toppings. You can also purchase the highest quality farm produce to take home. Here you will also find the tasting room for the Piekenierskloof winery, and visitors can sample and purchase these delicious wines, or enjoy a gourmet meal. The Carmién Tea tasting room is also situated here and in addition to the innovative and extensive range of herbal blends and flavoured rooibos teas – which can be enjoyed in an exciting tea pairing experience, visitors can try the two award-winning rooibos distilled gins on offer. Slightly further along the N7 is the Kardoesie Padstal, nestled in the Piekenierskloof Pass, which offers delicious meals from an extensive menu – to be enjoyed with a view over the valley. PortervillePorterville is a quaint village nestled on the slopes of the Olifant’s River Mountains at the base of the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area, that offers one of the most desirable foodie experiences – bespoke cooking classes at Ebony Moon where attendees get to prepare the freshest dishes under the guidance of a gourmand – learning new tricks and techniques – and then eat their delicious creations. Just above the village in the mountains, one will find Gin Smiths, as artisanal gin distillery where visitors can savour a gin tasting and tapas experience. In the village visitors can enjoy a meal at the Rendezvous restaurant or at Koppie Koffie – both serving up a wide range of dishes including wood fired pizzas, hamburgers and much more. “When it comes to enjoying a culinary adventure in the Bergrivier area, visitors are truly spoilt for choice,” concludes Ndlangisa. For more information on the Bergrivier area and where to eat, as well as other things to see and do, visit https://bergriviertourism.co.za/. Share: Facebook Twitter Pinterest LinkedIn Related Posts
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Top 10 Adventure Activities In and Around Bergrivier Western Cape
“I do not want to get to the end of my life and find that I just lived the length of it. I want to have lived the width of it as well.” – Diane Ackerman At Bergrivier tourism we have put together a list of our very own top 10 adventure activities in Bergrivier. Bergrivier is about an hour and a half from Cape Town, making it a good addition to a Cape Town trip. There is a wide variety of activities to choose from, either a half day tour or a full day tour can be completed easily. The following adventure activities are guaranteed to quench the thirst of avid adventure seekers and those with a milder taste for adventure. If you are looking for adventurous things to feed the soul and to satisfy your natural curiosity, then this list will fuel that adventurous fire in your heart. Bergrivier has an abundance of accommodation options to suit your adventures all year round. The Bergrivier area provides for all kinds of adventure activities no matter your preference. For the more relaxed traveller or those who just want to switch off from the world, we have plenty of outdoor activities on offer. One can book a boat trip around Velddrif, with several providers each catering to a different kind of adventurer. Some of the activities you can do on a boat include bird watching fishing or just cruising around with friends. These boat tours depart from the Port Owen marina and the famous Bokkomlaan daily. “And what about the more experienced adventure traveller?” We sure have something for them too! The Bergrivier is the ultimate playground for those who love stunning natural surrounds; be it watching the sunrise over the mountains or the sea spray splashing against the face. Natural elements like wind, sun, sand, and water abundant in the Bergrivier offer the needed challenge for serious adventurers. The seaside suburbs of Velddrif and Dwarskersbos avail water sports aplenty, be it kite surfing, sea kayaking or stand up paddleboarding. Piketberg and Porterville are great for walkers and hikers. A worthy alternative to what the mother city offers on Table Mountain for Hikers are the Porterville Mountains. The Groot Winterhoek nature reserve across the valley from Piket-Bo-berg is sure to excite seasoned hikers. A 1-day hike up to the huts, for a back-to-basics rustic evening over gas cooker meals and stories with friends, is a must-do. Here you experience the natural beauty of some of the Cape fold mountains up close. A short hike from Goedverwacht into Piket-bo-berg offers views few can compete with. Do this Hike as part of an overnight experience and go stargazing on top of the Piket-Bo-berg. Near Piketberg there is a private game reserve where visitors can overnight and spot the wildlife in luxury. If a cultural adventure is more your flair, Piketberg has a self-guided tour of its founding historic buildings that visitors can enjoy. Enjoy this fascinating walk and see some of the hidden gems of the town. Dirt tracks for the casual overlander or off-road extremist can be found just outside Piketberg at Jakkalskloof. Rock crawling and winching over obstacles en route to your destination is a thrill not to be missed. Drivers are rewarded with the spectacular scenery throughout the journey. Now armed with this information you can make the best choices when choosing adventure activities in the Bergrivier! Take a look at these 10 activities below that we have selected to give you a little inspiration for your next trip to the Bergrivier region. 1. Hiking at Groot Winterhoek Groot winterhoek has several trails to be explored and mountain huts for overnight hikes, Disa Pools which is day hike and an unofficial kloofing route for those extra keen adventurers. 2. Goedverwacht to Piket-Bo-Berg Hike A brand new trail taking travellers from the mission town of Goedverwacht up into the Piket-bo-berg mountains. You will experience breath-taking views and superior stargazing at night once you reach your accommodation. If you arrive early you can catch the sunrise over the mountain and be greeted by breath-taking views on the summit. 3.MTB Trail – Piketberg Piketberg offers cyclists one of a kind private mountain biking trails. Rugged landscapes and a variety of technical and pleasant riding make for a great adventure weekend never to be forgotten. At Retreat Guest Farm Guests can enjoy a private trail, there is also the recently launched Piketberg gravel circuit which includes 300KM of gravel roads and multiple stops in the charming towns of the Bergrivier. Piket-Bo-berg also hosts 2 MTB events the Cycle Challenge and the U-MTB event. 4. Canoeing in Velddrif Velddrif offers water enthusiasts a wealth of opportunities that will excite. Travellers can find scenic paddling along the famous Bokkomlaan, at the Riviera Hotel and in Port Owen. All types of watercraft are welcome, so bring your kayak or stand up paddle board if canoes are not for you. 5. Boat Trips in Vleddrif Whether it is wildlife or relaxing that you enjoy, there’s a boat trip for your adventure in Velddrif. Fishing and birding cruises are available which are sure to please those who are interested. Check out Velddrifs’ what to do page to find an experience that excites you. 6. Paragliding in Porterville Bergrivier is home to world-class paragliding, specifically cross country flying. This style of the sport forgoes the mountainside in exchange for powerful thermal updrafts created in the hot valley below. Paragliders can find launch sites on both the Porterville and Piketberg mountains. Check in with the Flyers lodge for specifics about conditions and tips for flying here. 7. Bird watching Velddrif Velddrif is paradise for birdwatchers on the West Coast. Popular birding sites you can visit in and around Velddrif include: Rocher Pan, Bokkomlaan, Rooibaai and Laaiplek Harbour. It is not often one can see and find so much as easily as one can around Velddrif. Rocher Pan is one of the highlights for birdwatchers. It boasts incredible biodiversity, which has made it
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Make 2022 your Year of Adventure with these Top Travel Destinations – All on Cape Town’s Doorstep
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
