The Bergrivier region, and the beautiful towns situated within it – which are right on Cape Town’s doorstep – offer something for everyone these December holidays and is also close enough for day-trippers to enjoy. There are an array of activities and accommodation options, and some of the most pristine and untouched nature reserves, wetlands, lagoons, mountain landscapes, and more.
Velddrif
Picture: Getaway gallery
Velddrif is one of the most popular bird-watching sites in South Africa, and the estuary is rated as one of the most important birding areas in the world. Velddrif offers exciting water sports, including skiing, sailing, canoeing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, boating, and stand-up paddling. Fishing enthusiasts will love the river which holds an abundance of fish species. The Fisheries Museum is well worth a visit if you want to learn more about the history of the fishing industry along this coast. The area also offers 4×4’ing, hiking, mountain climbing, and a shooting range at nearby Klein Tafelberg.
A boat cruise up the river on the Cracklin Rosie, or with Knot Xtreme, is a must, and Bokkomlaan – the oldest road in the town – is a great place to relax and watch the tide come in while sipping artisanal coffee. Sit on a jetty with a cocktail, or visit the art gallery and eclectic shops. Bokkomlaan is named after the salted mullet strung into bunches and hung to dry like biltong which is the signature local delicacy in this area. Velddrif is a foodie’s paradise and recommended experiences include wine and biltong tasting at Gedeelte Wines, Bokkom tasting at Ek & Djy restaurant, a craft beer tasting at Charlie’s Brewhouse, gin tasting at the Poetic License Distillery and an artisanal cheese tasting at Kokerboom Kaas.
Piketberg
Picture: Open Africa
Piketberg is nestled at the foot of the Piketberg Mountain range. This historic village offers abundant outdoor activities, good food, good wine, attractive architecture, warm country hospitality, and rich heritage.
The self-guided Piketberg Historical Route (which can be done on foot) is the best way to experience the town. Don’t miss Piketberg’s increasingly popular Last Friday – a food and art festival that takes place on the last Friday of every month.
For wine lovers, a visit to Org-de-Rac, the local organic winery, to sample the fruits of the local vineyards is recommended and the wine and cheese pairing, as well as the fresh oysters and MCC, are a must. Org-de-Rac is also hosting the Org-de-Rac Somerfees which promises to be a lovely family day out. There is a wealth of activities to enjoy while staying in Piketberg – amongst these is horse riding, with beautiful 1.5-hour and 3-hour trails on offer in Piket-Bo-Berg, as well as hiking in this stunning terrain overlooking the valley.
Porterville
Picture: Supplied
Last on the list of highly recommended towns to visit this holiday is Porterville, a quaint village nestled on the slopes of the Olifant’s River Mountains at the base of the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area.
This beautiful town has now been dubbed as one of the most desirable and popular country towns in the Western Cape. For foodies, there is a myriad of coffee shops, restaurants, and eateries. Amongst these are Ben’s Diner and Ystermeisie at the Flyers Lodge. Gin enthusiasts can enjoy a gin-tasting and tapas experience at the boutique distillery in the mountains above Porterville. An art experience at Die Lighuis Art and Coffee Shop is also highly recommended. From 25 November to 5 December there will be a Christmas market at the Rendezvous Restaurant, and visitors are well advised to stay on and sample their famous ribs. Check out some more seasonal holidays in South Africa.
Outdoor enthusiasts will have a variety of hiking trails to choose from. There is also an uphill waterfall trail dotted with 22 waterfalls and crystal-clear pools. Mountain bikers will love the many trails that wind their way through the surrounding countryside. A camping stay at Beaverlac is also always a good idea. On the 10th of December, the town’s monthly market will be taking place at the showgrounds, the Porterville Community Market.
There is so much to do in the Bergrivier area that visitors are truly spoilt for choice. All of these towns promise a great escape for the entire family and memories to be made over the festive season.
For more information on these towns and where to stay, eat, and things to do visit https://bergriviertourism.co.za.
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