Kerke Gholfdag
Kerke Gholfdag
Velddrif
Port Owen Market
Port Owen Market Enjoy a fun day out with local crafts, delicious food, live music, and a great community vibe. Bring your family and friends and support our local talent!
Klein Tafelberg Jamboree 2025
Klein Tafelberg Jamboree 2025 Get ready for an adventure you won’t forget at Jamboree 2025! Besides conquering Klein Tafelberg, you’ll be entered into our exclusive prize draw to win 2 VIP Lounge tickets to the epic Stormers vs Bulls match! Imagine this: full hospitality, free-flowing drinks, and the best seats in the stadium—all for you and a friend. Don’t wait, sign up today and secure your spot at the event! #Jamboree2025 #4x4event #OffroadAdventure #Giveaway #Competition #Stormers #Bulls #Rugby #VIPtickets #KleinTafelberg #SouthAfrica #4x4life #winbig
Klein Tafelberg Jamboree 2025 Read More »
Velddrif Mile Swim
Velddrif Mile Swim 9th ANNUAL VELDDRIF MILE, 3KM & FUN SWIM: Saturday 8 November 2024, Port Owen Marina, Velddrif, West Coast, South Africa The 9th Annual Velddrif Mile & 3km Swim event takes place in the picturesque Port Owen Marina, Velddrif West Coast. The event is open to all levels of fitness and a great way for the whole family to get involved. The race is split into 3 different categories: 500m Fun Swim, 1.6km Mile Swim & 3km Swim. The 500m Fun Swim is open to all ages and all levels of fitness. Swimmers for the fun event can dress up for a shot at the prize for Best Spirit on the day. Assisted swimming devices like lilo’s, pool noodles are allowed for this leg of the race but no flippers. This fun race is a great way to get the whole family involved. Registration: 8:45 – 9:45am. Race briefing: 9.55am at Port Owen Slipway, 1 Marina Centre, Port Owen. Race will start at 10:10am. This year, this fun part of the event takes centre stage & will start after the two main events have finished. The official Velddrif Mile 1.6km swim is for the more adventurous at heart and swimmers with a bit more stamina & experience in the water. The 3km Advanced Swim is the more serious race and a great training session for all open water swimming enthusiasts. Both categories are open to Skins and Wetsuits. Registration: 6:30 – 7:45am. Race briefing for both these events are at 7:45am at East Basin, Elizabeth East Avenue, Port Owen. Both races will start at 8:15am in the canal. Transport from East Basin to the starting points will be provided, but it is always advised that you have your own back up team to keep your things safe and cheer you on. The end of the race and prize giving will take place at the Port Owen Yacht Club, Bronwen street, Port Owen. Our event always offers fantastic prizes and other exciting lucky draw prizes in between. Cash prizes are up for grabs for each winning category as well as a trophy and each entrant is guaranteed of a medal & a prize for the Best Dressed/Spirit on the day. The prize giving will start at approximately 11:15. GROUP BOOKING DISCOUNTS: A group of 5+ entering together will receive a 10% group discount & groups of 10+ entering together will receive a 20% group discount A variety of local food options will be available for purchase during and after the event. Spectators are most welcome to cheer on the swimmers, but please do not enter private property, boats or jetties along the canal. Make it a family affair and join us for a truly fun event. Come and explore the scenic beauty of the Bergriver region. Why not make a weekend of it and explore all the fun activities and things to do in the area. For more information, including registration details, entry forms and venue, follow us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/velddrifmileswimmingevent Entries will be open from 1 September – 31 October 2025 and the event will be capped at 200 entries. Wearing a swimming cap is compulsory and a visibility buoy or bright coloured swimwear is preferred for the 1.6km & 3km swimming events. Shop online www.numberthirteen.co.za available for delivery via Courier or for pick up on race day. For more information, contact us via email on velddrifmile@gmail.com or contact Ross on 083 444 9939
Velddrif Mile Swim Read More »
Bokkomlaan and Beyond: Discover the Soul of Velddrif
A coastal town where history, food and tradition flow with the tide Velddrif isn’t a place you pass through – it’s a place you feel. Where the tang of salt on your skin mingles with woodsmoke and bokkoms drying in the sun. Where every footstep echoes with generations of fisherfolk, artists, and storytellers. And where history and heritage aren’t confined to a museum – but woven into daily life, in community markets, dairy farms, and riverside fisheries – and generously shared with visitors. Take a journey into the past that’s still very much alive. Whether you’re watching bokkoms dry in the sun, listening to stories from lifelong local inhabitants, or sipping drinks by the riverside, Velddrif invites you to step into a story that continues to unfold. Here’s why this humble riverside town is one of the West Coast’s most rewarding heritage gems: Bokkomlaan: The Beating Heart of the Berg River Velddrif’s most iconic road is also its oldest. Bokkomlaan runs along the Berg River in a nostalgic loop of weathered jetties, whitewashed cottages and historic vishuise (fish sheds). Here, the air carries the scent of salt and tradition as harders (mullet) are brined, pressed and sun-dried into bokkoms—the West Coast’s oldest delicacy and a staple of the local diet. Once the industrial hub of the bokkom trade, Bokkomlaan has evolved into a blend of old and new. You can still watch fishermen preparing their catches by hand, but now you can also enjoy a riverside coffee or join a sunset boat ride. Don’t miss the chance to sample bokkoms served with moskonfyt (grape must jam), a slab of homemade bread, and a glass of chilled West Coast Chenin. The SA Fisheries Museum and Laaiplek’s Living Harbour A short distance from Bokkomlaan is Laaiplek, where the South African Fisheries Museum offers a deeper dive into the areas seafaring history – showcasing everything from old canning tools and fishing gear to model boats and oral history recordings. It’s a compact but compelling stop that brings the ocean’s role in Velddrif’s past to vivid life. The working harbour in Laaiplek is well worth a visit to watch the colourfully painted trawlers return from sea with their silver bounty. This is where the community’s maritime roots are most visible—where nets are mended by hand and the scent of fresh fish drifts on the breeze. Langrietvlei Farm: Dairy Heritage and Handmade Cheese Velddrif isn’t just a fishing town—it’s also home to one of the region’s oldest family-run farms. Langrietvlei has been in the Kotzé family for seven generations, and today, they specialise in creamy, A2 Guernsey milk, which forms the base of the award-winning locally produced Kokerboom Kaas. The Langrietvlei homestead is a declared Provincial Heritage site, and visitors are welcome to explore the farm and learn more about the dairy-making process. To sample Kokerboom Kaas, visit them in Waterkant Street in Velddrif and try the cumin-spiced gouda, tangy blue, or soft white cheese paired with local preserves. It’s a flavourful tribute to Velddrif’s agricultural roots – and a must-stop for any heritage food lover. Stories at the Market: Culture You Can Taste Every Saturday, the Velddrif Village Market brings the town to life with local flavour. Stalls brim with homemade jams, hand-stitched crafts, vintage gems, and slow-cooked West Coast fare. It’s a warm and welcoming space where community, creativity, and culture meet. During winter, occasional heritage-themed pop-ups add even more richness, shining a spotlight on traditional recipes, local storytelling, and live West Coast music. Celebrate Women’s Month in style at the Women’s High Tea taking place on Saturday, 02 August 2025 at 11h00 at Russells on the Port in Velddrif. This elegant gathering includes a welcome drink, delicious canapés, petit fours and tea, with an inspiring talk by guest speaker Sanché Nel, a clinical psychologist. Guests are encouraged to bring their own tea sets and decorate their tables, adding a personal touch to the experience. The event also features lucky draws, giveaways, and prizes, making it a memorable morning out. A Natural Heritage: Flora, Fauna, and Flamingos Velddrif’s heritage isn’t just cultural – it’s ecological too. The town is part of a Ramsar-listed wetland and seasonal home to over 30,000 birds. In winter, the skies fill with flamingos, pelicans, spoonbills, and the endangered black harrier. Birdwatchers will find no shortage of hides, jetties, and benches to settle in with a pair of binoculars and a camera. This is also the beginning of wildflower season, when the surrounding Sandveld begins to stir in preparation for its famous spring bloom. Velddrif makes a wonderful base for scenic drives inland to catch the early colours. Aurora and the Astronomer’s Beacon Travel 30 km inland to the peaceful Sandveld village of Aurora, and you’ll uncover a remarkable scientific landmark: a granite monument honouring 18th-century French astronomer Abbé Nicolas-Louis de La Caille. In 1751–1752, La Caille conducted the first geodetic (triangulated) survey in South Africa, charting a segment of the meridian arc between Cape Town and Klipfontein Farm near Aurora. His work helped determine the true shape of the Earth—and this quiet site, now a national monument, stands as a tribute to a time when even the stars were measured from West Coast soil. The journey to Aurora is part of the experience – rolling countryside, rust-red soil, and a sense of stepping back in time. It’s a scenic detour that highlights how history, science, and nature intersect in unexpected corners of Bergrivier. Visit, Taste, and Remember Velddrif lives its heritage every day. It’s in the netted hands of the fishermen. In the salty snap of a bokkom. In the gentle clang of a bell on an old wooden boat. And in the stories passed down, not just through books, but through food, friendship, and the rhythm of the river. Velddrif is where heritage lives and breathes. Our culture isn’t put on for show – it’s part of who we are. And we welcome visitors to share in that every day
Bokkomlaan and Beyond: Discover the Soul of Velddrif Read More »
A Taste of Real West Coast Life in Bergrivier – Slow Travel & Real Connections
Travelling is more than just sightseeing; it’s about slowing down and connecting with the heart of a place. Instead of rushing from one tourist spot to the next, imagine taking the time to truly engage with your surroundings—unearthing local secrets and discovering small, authentic moments that make a journey unforgettable. Immersive travel isn’t about ticking off landmarks; it’s about feeling the pulse of a destination, meeting the people who shape it, and diving into the traditions that give it life. For those who crave travel that goes beyond the ordinary, Bergrivier’s hidden corners and warm hospitality offer just that. Here’s how to find the treasures that make this region so special. Piketberg: Slow Sundays and Life in the Protea Fields Piketberg is a place that invites you to slow down. Stay on Pomona Farm, where bright protea fields roll across the hills and rare protea canaries flit through the trees. Evenings are best spent around a crackling fireplace or soaking in a wood-fired hot tub under a starlit sky—there’s even a stargazing net to make the most of it. Take a scenic drive or wander through the monthly Piket-Bo-Berg Farmers Market, a local favourite featuring farm-fresh produce, home-baked treats, live music, and mountain views. For a different kind of stay, Dunn’s Castle offers a taste of history. Built in the late 1890s, this grand retreat is believed to have been designed by Sir Herbert Baker. It features eight sunny Victorian-style rooms, a private pool, and a braai area. Surrounded by wheat fields, green vines and canola, it’s a timeless escape from city life. The historical Goedverwacht Mission Station is another window into the area’s rich past—especially during sweet potato harvesting season. In October, the Moravian church in this little village will celebrate its 130th anniversary, standing as a proud testament to the community’s enduring spirit. Sundays in Piketberg are known as ‘Silent Sundays’—a time for rest, reflection, and unhurried living. It’s an authentic taste of local life and one of those rare experiences few visitors know to seek out. Porterville: Creativity, Nature and Hidden Trails Porterville is a town that invites you to dig a little deeper. Start with a cooking class at Ebonymoon or try your hand at some pottery while sipping wine at AlnaPottery Studio—both chances to connect with local makers and learn something new. During the annual ‘Art for All’ weekend, the town’s creative side comes alive. Artists open their studios, inviting visitors to see paintings, ceramics and textiles in progress. But even beyond that weekend, many artists welcome guests by appointment, offering a chance to experience their work in an intimate setting. For something truly special, head into the mountains to Tygerkloof Distillery, home of Ginsmith Gin. Tucked high in the hills bordering the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area, it’s accessed via the scenic Dasklip Pass—famous for paragliding and breathtaking views from Table Mountain to St Helena Bay. Here you can meet the founders themselves, taste unique, fynbos-infused gins, and share stories over small plates of local tapas. It’s an experience that feels personal and grounded in place. For the adventurous, the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area hides secret waterfalls along trails like the Disa Pool route, where the rare red disa uniflora blooms in summer. And don’t leave Porterville without having stocked up on the towns fresh produce and delicacies, including a bottle of Andanté Olive Oil – another example of the care and craft that defines this region. Velddrif: Coastal Traditions and Salt Pan Sunsets For those curious about the area’s maritime past, the SA Fisheries Museum in Laaiplek is a small but rich stop, offering a window into the life and work of generations who’ve made a living from the sea. A visit to Bokkomlaan offers a deeper connection to the town’s fishing heritage. Here, you can watch fishermen at work, salting and drying bokkoms as they have done for generations. The smell of the river and the rhythmic sound of nets drying in the breeze make it an experience that’s as real as it gets. Farmstalls in the area, like Skooltjie and Kalahari Nooi, offer locally crafted homemade jams, preserves, and comforting traditional of pap & kaiings. Be sure to visit Kokerboom Kaas for proudly artisanal creamy, locally crafted cheeses that capture the West Coast’s salty air and simple pleasures. Velddrif keeps rhythm with the coastal tides and the gentle flow of the Berg River. In winter, Velddrif’s salt pans turn into quiet mirrors, reflecting flocks of flamingos in the early light. At Rooibaai in Laaiplek, sunset becomes an event. The sky turns pink and gold behind the fishing boats and seabirds. When visiting Velddrif, consider booking in at Wamakersvlei Beach Farm, which offers pet-friendly, self-catering accommodation along the pristine West Coast, surrounded by 400 hectares of untouched fynbos and ocean vistas. For those who enjoy glamping don’t miss a stay at West Coast Luxury Tents, just steps from the sea. Or make yourself at home at Draaihoek Lodge, with its unspoiled 5 km’s of white sandy beach and private nature reserve. Immersive travel is about seeing a place as locals do—feeling its pulse and sharing its quiet joys. In Bergrivier, that means stepping off the tourist trail and letting the small, authentic moments reveal themselves. Take your time here. Let the proteas, pottery wheels, and sunsets draw you in. And when you leave, you’ll carry a piece of the West Coast’s soul with you.
A Taste of Real West Coast Life in Bergrivier – Slow Travel & Real Connections Read More »
Work, Wander, and Wonder: Why Bergrivier is a Digital Nomad’s Dream Destination
Work, Wander and Wonder: Why Bergrivier is a Digital Nomad’s Dream Destination The rise of the digital nomad lifestyle has rewritten the rules of where—and how—we work. With just a laptop and a good internet connection, the whole world becomes your office. But why settle for crowded cities and noisy cafés when you could be answering emails with a mountain view, wrapping up meetings just in time for a beach sunset, or brainstorming your next big idea while sipping coffee in a friendly village cafe? Welcome to the Bergrivier region—a hidden gem just a short scenic drive from Cape Town that blends connectivity, natural beauty, and small-town charm into the ultimate remote working experience. From Velddrif and Laaiplek by the sea to the mountains of Piketberg and the rolling countryside of Aurora and Porterville, Bergrivier offers digital nomads a chance to work, live, and really breathe. Here’s why you should pack your laptop and come stay awhile: Velddrif & Laaiplek: River Views, Coastal Breezes, and Easy Living Set where the Berg River meets the Atlantic Ocean, Velddrif and Laaiplek are a paradise for those who love a coastal lifestyle. Famous for its historic Bokkomlaan—a heritage site and riverside road lined with local fish-drying sheds —Velddrif offers plenty of inspiration between meetings. Take a boat cruise down the river, kayak through the estuary, or simply stroll along the harbour at sunset. For nature lovers, Velddrif is a top birdwatching destination, especially around the Ramsar-listed estuary, where you can spot flamingos, pelicans, and hundreds of other species. Dwarskersbos, just a few minutes’ drive away, offers wide sandy beaches perfect for peaceful morning walks (or a quick surf session if you’re feeling adventurous). If you are into water sports, then this area is a must – windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, sailing – the list goes on. Markets, riverside restaurants, pet-friendly cafés, and stunning views make Velddrif and Laaiplek an unbeatable base for work-life balance. Aurora: Starry Skies, Wide Spaces, and Total Peace If deep tranquillity is what you seek, the picturesque village of Aurora is your haven. Nestled between rolling hills and surrounded by untouched nature, Aurora offers the kind of peace that encourages creativity, mindfulness, and deep focus. Hike the Danielshoogte Private Reserve trails to enjoy panoramic views over fynbos-covered landscapes, perfect for clearing your mind after a day of screen time. By night, prepare for some of the best stargazing imaginable—far from city lights, the skies above Aurora are nothing short of breathtaking. In Aurora, you’ll find cosy self-catering cottages and a warm village welcome, offering the perfect reset for remote workers needing to reconnect with nature and themselves. Piketberg: Heritage, Wine, and Mountain Views Craving crisp mountain air and a rich sense of history? Piketberg is calling. Nestled at the foot of its namesake mountain, this charming town is known for its beautifully preserved architecture and its relaxed, small-town feel. Spend your lunch breaks wandering the Piketberg Historical Route, passing the neo-gothic church, heritage cottages, and fascinating museum, or head out for a scenic drive to explore historic mission villages like Goedverwacht and Wittewater. Piketberg also offers organic wine tastings at Org-de-Rac and beautiful hiking and mountain biking trails in the Piket-Bo-Berg area. Foodies and fresh-produce fans will love the monthly Piket-Bo-Berg Farmers Market—perfect for stocking up on local artisanal goods and homemade treats. Quiet, scenic, and surprisingly sophisticated, Piketberg offers a slower pace of life without ever feeling disconnected. Porterville: Creativity, Adventure, and Mountain Magic At the base of the Groot Winterhoek mountains lies Porterville—a town bursting with creativity, charm, and outdoor adventure. Home to an exciting arts scene, including open studios and an annual art festival, Porterville is perfect for digital nomads looking to balance work with artistic inspiration. Thrill-seekers can paraglide off Dasklip Pass, hike to cascading waterfalls, or camp overnight in wild nature at Beaverlac. Ginsmith’s distillery on the mountain adds another flavourful local experience, where you can sample artisanal gin made with indigenous botanicals. Porterville also offers an abundance of accommodation options, including stunning mountain retreats—ideal for those who want to mix remote working with true outdoor living. Why Bergrivier Works for Digital Nomads Reliable Wi-Fi across the region: Almost all accommodation options and eateries offer fast and dependable internet, so you’ll stay connected wherever you choose to work. Formal meeting spaces when needed: Several lodges, hotels, and resorts offer meeting rooms and conferencing facilities, ideal for hosting business gatherings if needed. These include: Draaihoek Lodge (Velddrif) Charlie’s Brewhouse (Velddrif) Riviera Hotel (Velddrif) Laaiplek Hotel (Laaiplek) Dunn’s Castle (Piketberg) Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort (Piketberg) Highlands Eco Estate (Piketberg) Flyers Lodge (Porterville) Diverse accommodation: Choose from stylish guesthouses, self-catering houses, eco-lodges, boutique hotels, and cosy chalets. Affordability: Well-priced stays, especially outside of peak holiday seasons, mean you can work remotely longer without blowing your budget. Easy access to Cape Town and the International airport: Bergrivier is linked to the city and the airport by well-maintained highways, making day trips or quick business trips easy. Friendly locals and great amenities: Local markets, cafés, farm stalls, and restaurants offer everything you need for daily life—and a strong sense of community. Natural beauty on your doorstep: From beach strolls and mountain hikes to river kayaking and birdwatching, the Bergrivier landscape keeps life vibrant and inspiring. Stay Awhile, Work Well, Live Fully !If you’re looking for a destination where work feels like part of an adventure—and where weekends turn into mini-holidays—then Bergrivier is the place for you. Fresh air, freedom, friendly faces, and all the modern essentials you need to thrive as a digital nomad. So, what are you waiting for? Set up your new remote office in Bergrivier, and let your best work—and life—begin!
Work, Wander, and Wonder: Why Bergrivier is a Digital Nomad’s Dream Destination Read More »
Unforgettable Romance in Bergrivier: More Than Just a One-Day Affair
Unforgettable Romance in Bergrivier: More Than Just a One-Day Affair Valentine’s Day may be the official celebration of love, but why limit romance to just one day a year? True connection is not about grand gestures on a single occasion – it is about making time for each other, sharing experiences and creating memories all year round. If you and your partner are looking to keep the romance alive beyond February 14th, the Bergrivier region is the perfect place to do just that. Secluded Retreats and Hidden Escapes Nothing says romance quite like a getaway to a remote and breathtaking destination. Bergrivier is home to intimate mountain hideaways, riverside retreats, charming village stays, and coastal escapes where you can switch off from the world and tune into each other. There’s something magical about Bergrivier’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re waking up to misty mountain views, watching the sunset over the river, or strolling along the beach, the region offers the perfect setting to connect and unwind. For an extra special experience, book a stay in the Piket-Bo-Berg mountains above Piketberg, where you can immerse yourselves in fynbos-covered landscapes, soak in spectacular views, and enjoy complete tranquillity. Or opt for a getaway on the banks of the Berg River, where you can enjoy the ebb and flow of this beautiful river. For those who love the sound of waves and fresh sea air, a coastal stay in Laaiplek or Dwarskersbos offers the perfect setting for romantic beach walks and peaceful evenings by the shore. Adventurous Bonding in Nature Nothing strengthens a connection like sharing an adventure. Bergrivier is packed with experiences for couples who love the outdoors. Take a gentle canoe ride along the Berg River, exploring its meandering waters together. Or hop on a boat cruise and enjoy the peaceful scenery as the sun sets. For an extra touch of romance, head to Velddrif’s Bokkom Laan and stroll along the banks of the Berg River. The atmosphere here is laid-back and nostalgic, with wooden jetties, historic fish-drying racks, and quaint little eateries serving up delicious local treats. It’s the perfect spot to steal a quiet moment together. If you’re drawn to the ocean, a romantic stroll along the untouched beaches of Dwarskersbos is a must. Walk hand in hand along the golden sands, let the salty breeze tangle in your hair, and finish off the day with a sundowner picnic as the waves crash in the distance. Spending time in nature together is a wonderful way to create lasting memories. The Bergrivier region is an outdoor paradise, where couples can explore, discover, and simply enjoy each other’s company. For couples who prefer solid ground, the hiking trails of the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness offer breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourselves in untouched natural beauty. Try your hand at kloofing, rockpool swimming, and discovering ancient rock paintings together. Or visit Highlands Eco Estate atop the picturesque Piketberg mountains, where you can reconnect with each other in a serene and sustainable setting, surrounded by unspoiled landscapes and fresh mountain air. Sip, Savour, and Celebrate Love There’s something incredibly romantic about sharing a meal or toasting to your love in a stunning setting. Bergrivier is filled with options for couples who love great food and drink. Start with a wine and oyster pairing at Org de Rac, an organic wine estate just outside Piketberg, or try artisanal gin tasting at Gin Smiths in the mountains above Porterville. This hidden gem offers a unique experience, allowing you to savour locally distilled gins while enjoying the fresh mountain air. Just be sure to book in advance—it’s a small, exclusive experience perfect for couples looking to escape the crowds. Bergrivier also boasts a myriad of dining options to suit all tastes – from rustic riverside cafés to fine dining establishments, fresh seafood feasts to artisanal pizza spots—there’s something for every palate. Food is such an integral part of any travel experience. Whether you’re sharing a seafood platter with a view of the ocean or enjoying a locally sourced meal in a charming country setting, the flavours of Bergrivier will leave a lasting impression. Sometimes, romance is found in the simplest things—like enjoying a lazy morning at a charming farmstall, sipping on freshly brewed coffee and sharing a slice of homemade cake. The Bergrivier Farmstall Route is perfect for couples who love to wander, with stops like Desert Rose Farm Stall in Koringberg and Die Rooi Stoor near Verlorenvlei offering the perfect excuse to slow down and simply enjoy each other’s company. Make Romance an Everyday Affair Love isn’t about big, showy gestures—it’s about the moments in between. Whether it’s escaping to the mountains for the weekend, sharing a quiet meal at a farmstall, or watching the sun set over the ocean, Bergrivier offers endless ways to keep the spark alive all year round. So, instead of celebrating romance for just one day, why not make it part of your everyday life? Pack your bags, grab your partner’s hand, and set off on an unforgettable adventure where love isn’t just reserved for February—it’s woven into the very fabric of the Bergrivier region. Discover our Exclusive Romantic Deals Click Here
Unforgettable Romance in Bergrivier: More Than Just a One-Day Affair Read More »
