Places To See
Things To Do In Citrusdal
- Wild Flowers in season
- Sanveldhuisie
- Goede Hoop Citrus Co-op
Citrusdal is situated between the magnificent Kouebokkeveld and Swartberg Mountains, and is most certainly one of the most beautiful sights that a trip to the West Coast has to offer. Essentially a farming area, this town is one of the most viable agricultural areas in South Africa with it's enormous production of export citrus fruit.
Enjoy various activities in the area i.e. hiking, mountain biking, 4x4 trips, bird watching and horse riding amongst others. Although the towns' main source of income is derived from its legendary top-quality citrus production and citrus by-products, Citrusdal is fast becoming renowned for its wines, rooibos tea, buchu, honey, vegetables as well as such diverse farming activities as cattle and sheep.
In addition to the proclaimed Cederberg Wilderness area, the the serious nature-lover will not be disappointed with its rich compliment of fynbos and natural sandstone rock formations, such as the legendary Wolfberg Arch, well known to serious hikers throughout the world. See what is thought to be the oldest orange tree in the country (± 250 years), situated on the farm Hexrivier in the Citrusdal Valley. Astonishingly, the tree still bears fruit to this very day!
Things To Do In Clanwilliam
- Rock art
- Bird watching
- Old jail museum
- Rooibos Tea factory
- Strassbergers "Veldskoen" Factory
- Leipoldt's Grave
- Bird watching
- Watersport
Clanwilliam
Better known as the heart of South Africa's infamous Rooibos tea producing areas, this bustling little town has a multitude of activities to satisfy even the most seasoned tourist.
As one of the oldest and most well established towns in South Africa, Clanwilliam offers a look into the history and cultural development of this town at the many museums and landmarks present.
For nature lovers, there is little to equal the sheer splendour of the annual wild flower spectacle and the many hiking and rock climbing routes available.
In addition to the prolific Rooibos tea production, Clanwilliam boasts a wealth of farming activities such as citrus & deciduous fruit, vegetables, livestock and more recently wine.
The Clanwilliam Dam Resort is well known to many water sport enthusiasts and is recognized as the best water skiing facility in the Western Cape, offering a wide spectrum of water sporting facilities e.g. water skiing, sailing, jet skiing, board sailing and angling and much more. This is an attraction not to be missed when travelling North.
Also not to be missed is the local "veldskoen" (shoe) factory, popular for its production of South Africa's renowned leather outdoor shoe. Life just is not the same without a pair of these legendary shoes!
One of the most significant attractions must surely be the annual display of wild flowers which attracts visitors from far and wide.
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Things To Do In Klawer
- Hiking trails
- 4 x 4 trails
- River rafting
- Wine cellars
- Wild flowers in season
Klawer is situated directly on the N7 route between Cape Town and Namibia offering the traveller an ideal stopover as it falls virtually halfway between Namibia and Cape Town. You'll be delighted by the gorgeous gardens, small farm animals, stunning swimming pool and recreational areas and fabulous hospitality offered at Oasis Country Lodge iin Klawer!
The town of Klawer was originally known as Klawervlei and was so named after the wild clover which is found prolifically in the area during the rainy winter season (April to August). Temperatures in Klawer are known to climb to above 40°c in the Summer months and as low as an average of 12.4°c during Winter.
During spring, Klawer and surrounds are covered by a carpet of wild flowers for which the area is so well known.
Klawer is a central point on your northbound route to access the towns of Vredendal, Strandfontein, Lambert's Bay, Clanwilliam and Vanrhynsdorp.
Things To Do In Lamberts Bay
- See Bird Island
- Enjoy seafood delicacies at the local outdoor eatery on the beach
- Visit nature reserves
- 4 x 4 trails
- Wild flowers in Spring
Lambert's Bay
This picturesque seaside village offers a world in one and must be amongst the ultimate seaside villages to visit when staying with us at Oasis Country Lodge.
With more than 205 bird species to view on nearby Bird Island (accessible by boat) and the Southern Right whales which come close into shore during the calving season, this little jewel will keep you coming back for more and more.
Viewing of Southern Right whales, dolphins, Gannets, Cormorants and Penguins amongst many others, is the order of the day. Many renowned bird and wildlife photographers visit this seaside village regularly to capture the rich marine and bird life in this magical seaside village.
Magnificent pearly white beaches with mile upon mile of pristine sand dunes which draw 4 x 4 enthusiasts from all corners of the world. Although legislation now prohibits recreational vehicles on beaches in South Africa, Lambert's Bay is able to offer 4 x 4 routes through the dunes on private property.
Things To Do In Lutzville
- Saldanha-Sishen railway bridge
- Lutzville wine cellar
Lutzville
The town of Lutzville was originally named Vlermuisklip (Bat Rock) after a famous landmark rock situated in Lutzville. This famous rock is now home to the ever popular KLIPHUIS, al fresco eatery, where the most delectable meals are served to compliment the areas sort after wines.
Lutzville later took its name in honour of John Lutz, the chief irrigation engineer who pioneered the impressive Clanwilliam Dam.
The breath-taking Sishen-Saldanha railway bridge was constructed across the main road (R363) to Vredendal. Over a kilometer long, the longest known train in the world traverses this railway bridge daily carrying the iron ore for which this impressive bridge was originally built.
Wine, grapes, currants, raisins and sultanas are all locally produced in the area. Vegetables also form an integral part of this areas agricultural production. Tomatoes are canned at the local canning factory in Lutzville.
Should you decide to take in a game of golf, don't miss the 19th hole as this is in the tasting room of the local winery!
Things To Do In Nieuwoudtville
- Dutch Reformed Church
- Khoi San Paintings
- Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve
- Glacial rock pavement
- Waterfall
- Matjiesfontein Farmstall
- Beautiful sandstone ruins
- Magical wild flower displays in season
- Quiver tree forest
Nieuwoudtville
This picturesque town, established c1897, with a myriad examples of the finest Cape fynbos and diverse species of flora, has been appropriately named the bulb capital of the World.
The diversity of the abundant flora in and around Niewoudtville is unquestionably one of the main attractions in the whole Namaqualand area.
Not to be missed are the many fine examples of sandstone buildings dating back to c1897. One of these masterpieces is the Neo Gothic style Dutch Reformed church , which was completed in 1907 and has since achieved monument status.
The Niewoudtville Wild Flower reserve was established in 1974 for the explicit purpose of conserving the abundant unique flora for which the district is so renowned.
The breathtaking Niewoudtville Waterfall is another "have to see". With a fascinating array of plant and bird species to observe, don't miss this opportunity to visit this 90m high waterfall.
The Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve is spread over approximately 4000 hectare of land comprising the most concentrated and unspoilt fynbos this region has to offer. Once again the landscape offers fascinating rock formations, Bushmen paintings, flora and fauna. There are several hiking and camping trails on offer with up to 46 kms of hiking trails to choose from.Travel along the Loeriesfontein road toward Ganna-bos where you will find the most prolific concentration of Quiver trees. During the Spring you will observe a profusion of wild flowers carpeting the forest floor.
Things To Do In Springbok
- Monument Koppie in town centre
- Blue Mine
- Goegap Nature Reserve
- Nanstat
- Local curio shops
Springbok
This bustling town with it's fully developed infrastructure is situated in a narrow valley flanked by the famous granite Klein Koperberge ("Copper Mountains").
Springbok offers the tourist a welcome respite when journeying north to Namibia.
There are several restuarants in the town and many places of interest to tourists who are keen to learn more about this little piece of paradise which comes alive in the Springtime with nature's own spectacular show of wild flowers for which the area is well known. Tourists from all over the world visit Springbok for this spectacular annual event.
Hiking and 4 x 4 trails can be arranged.
Things To Do In Strandfontein & Doringbaai
- Bird watching
- Coastal hiking trail
- Crayfishing (in season)
- Fishing
- Whale watching
- Lighthouse @ Doringbaai
- Crayfish factory @ Doringbaai
Strandfontein & Doringbaai
Strandfontein is situated on the mouth of the Olifant's River. Strandfontein evolved from being an insignificant rural beach resort to a bustling tourist mecca during the wild flower season (August/September) and during the South African summer season (November to February) and Easter holidays (March/April).
Strandfontein has become one of the main holiday resorts in South Africa for the observation of Southern Right whales which come close into the protective bay during their calving season. At this time, you will most certainly spot the Southern Rights frolicking in the bay with their babies close by.
During the bustling Summer holiday season there are Christian groups who arrange several activities locally for young and old who are energetic enough for a game of volleyball or cricket on the beach.
Things To Do In Upington
- S A Dried Fruit Co-op
- Kalaharioranje Museum
- Oranje Rivier Co-op Wine Cellars
- Spitskop Nature Reserve
- Camel and rider statue
- Watersports
Upington
With a population of approximately
60 000, and an advanced infrastructure, Upington can rightfully be described as a bustling business and holiday town.
Situated along the fertile banks of the Orange River, many industries including a flourishing agricultural sector have evolved from this life-giving water source.
Today, Upington is the Provincial Capital for the Northern Cape Province and as such has taken on a new and important role in the development of the whole region.
With a relatively low humidity factor, the heat in the middle of the Summer months is more bearable and therefore conducive to outdoor and watersport activities on the Orange River.
Things To Do In Vanrhynsdorp
- Latsky Radio Museum
- Vanrhyn Museum
- Succulent nursery
- Anglo Boer War Route
- Wild flowers from July to September
Vanrhynsdorp
Situated to the northwest of the Maskam Mountains and approximately 15 minutes from Oasis Country Lodge, Vanrhynsdorp, the oldest town in Namaqualand offers an interesting days outing for the visitor to Oasis Country Lodge.
Vanrhynsdorp boasts the largest indigenous succulent nursery in the South Hemosphere. Definitely worth a visit.
See also numerous Bushmen rock paintings and visit the Latsky Radio Museum as well as the Van Rhyn Museum which will give you detailed information into the background and origins of this fascinating town.
In addidtion, Vanrhynsdorp also offers one of nature's most specatacular floral displays anytime from July to August, when the fields come alive with veld flowers - something not to be missed. When driving through the town towards Nieuwoudtville on a day trip, you're bound to see several gardens during the flower season with an abundant display of wild flowers.
Things To Do In Vredendal
- Matzikama Eco Park
- 4 x 4 Trails
- Wine Cellars
- Scenic drive
- Bird watching
- Annual "Namaquafees" festival
Vredendal
Vredendal, a modern South African WEST COAST town is situated along the fertile banks of the Olifants River in the Olifants River Valley. As you approach this bustling rural gem you will encounter vast expanses of terraced vineyards, reminiscent of a typical Rhine River village.
A leisurely 3 hour drive from Cape Town on the N7 highway, you will journey through some of the most magnificent scenery which South Africa and specifically the WEST COAST, has to offer.
Vredendal is an ideal stopover for the battle-weary businessman or the adventurous tourist who wishes to experience the true warmth and welcome for which the WEST COAST and her people are so well known.
Vredendal evolved as a direct result of the construction of the Olifants River Irrigation Scheme which traverses the Olifants Valley. This productive WEST COAST gem boasts not only vineyards but productive citrus orchards, vegetable farms as well as an abundant wealth of flora. Situated on the southern tip of NAMAQUALAND, Vredendal has become synonymous with natures famous annual display of wild flowers. Tourists from all corners of the world flock to Vredendal to witness this annual floral spectacle.
Vredendal offers healthy climatic conditions with an average summer temperature of 31°c and a winter temperature of 19°c. Being a winter rainfall area, there is an abundance of water which lends itself to the lush and fertile agricultural sector.
This busy country town supports a population of approximately 32 000 people. With a well developed infrastructure and a reliable telecommunication network and electricity supply, there is little more that one could ask from this bustling country town.
There are several well-knownrestaurants in the town serving anything from the juiciest rump steak to the freshest most delicious crayfish harvested at Strandfontein or Doringbaai, a mere 20 minute drive away.
Should the need arise; there is a modern airfield with adequate facilities for the operation of light aircraft.
Vredendal boasts the landmark Saldanha to Sishen railway bridge which spans the breadth of the Olifants Valley and in particular the MELKBOOMSDRIFT wine farm.
The educational infrastructure comprises primary and secondary schools as well as a technical college which meets with stringent national educational standards. Several sports and other extramural activities are available at these institutions.
There are adequate medical facilities and services in the town with a well equipped hospital and highly qualified physicians. In addition to this, there are special care centers and amenities for the aged and infirm.
Agriculture in Vredendal
Vredendal has developed a formidable and broad agricultural base which includes the cultivation of wine, vegetables and citrus, of which a large volume is sold to local and overseas markets.
With fertile soil, an abundant water supply and the cool Atlantic air, Vredendal is fast becoming recognized for her exceptional wines which are proving to be winners in both local and overseas markets.
The South African Dried Fruit Co-operative is active in Vredendal taking advantage of the high quality fruit available from the area which is processed into dried fruit and sold to local and overseas markets. Vredendal is also one of the major potato producing regions in the country with quality unsurpassed.
Economy
The steady growth in the mining and agricultural sectors in and around Vredendal has been instrumental in the development and manifestation of e.g. chain stores, an up to date hospital and speciality stores to name but a few.
Other industries in and around Vredendal which add to the growing economy of the town include: Malaqua Marble - where huge marble blocks are cut and prepared for local sale and export to Europe.
Eckloweed Industry - processes seaweed products for the personal health industry and is exported to countries such as USA, Japan and Britain.
Namakwa Sands - an Anglo American mining operation are actively increasing their mining activities in the area.
Cape Lime Processing - quarries and processes dolomite.