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.
