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Flowers in Cape West Coast

Fishing in West Coast

The West Coast Road

Drying Snoek in the West Coast

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Western Cape road trip

Watch this video to find out what experiences await you in the Western Cape including a visit to the quaint Cape Karoo.

Attractions on the Cape West Coast

1. Cederberg and Matzikama Mountain Ranges
   

   San and Khoi people inhabited the Cederberg from the earliest times. Expect to see excellent examples of San rock art as well as the the famous Stadsaal rock formations. Visit Algeria, Citrusdal, Clanwilliam and Van Rhynsdorp.

   
2. Flowers in Springtime
   

   The natural phenomenon of flower season along the Cape West Coast in the Western Cape draws thousands of visitors from around the country and from around the world, between August and September each year; but, the wild flowers have been known to bloom as early as July and as late as October, depending on weather conditions.

   
3. West Coast National Park
   

   The West Coast boasts an unspoiled coastline with endless stretches of pristine beach and is renowned for its national parks and other protected environments. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, where up to 100 species can be spotted at any one time. These include Cape Gannets, Jackass (African) Penguins, Flamingoes, Waders, Black Harriers, Sandpipers, Larks and Godwits.

   
4. !Khwa ttu San Culture & Education Centre
   

   !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre and shake hands with descendants of the San, the first indigenous people of southern Africa. Journey into their history, and learn about their traditional knowledge, languages and customs.

   
5. West Coast Fossil Park
   

   Run by the South African Museum the Fossil Park is open to visitors by prior arrangement. It covers a large area, some of which has been excavated for its fossil animal remains, exposed during previous mining activities. A large dam attracts many bird species and a hide has been built there. A variety of duck and open veld species can be seen.

   
6. Rooibos Tea
   

   No alternative source of supply of this unique product is available anywhere else in the world. Today Rooibos, dubbed ‘mother nature’s lullaby’, is an excellent source of antioxidants. Lab studies show that the tea could possibly slow the ageing process (including the progression of dementia), prevent certain forms of cancer (particularly skin, liver and oesophageal cancer) and lower the risk of heart disease. Rooibos can also help fight allergies and anecdotal evidence suggests that Rooibos acts as a digestive aid and anti-spasmodic, thereby relieving stomach cramps and colic in babies; soothes skin irritations when applied directly to the affected area and boosts the immune system. It is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women, and young children.

   
7. Bokkomlaan in Velddrif
   

   Bokkoms are a local delicacy of sun-dried fish. Bokkom Laan is the heart of a small bokkom industry in Velddrif. But it is not all just Bokkoms. You will also find Marina Clunie’s Art Studio, Ek en Djy Visserye and a restaurant in Bokkom Laan. While there, don't miss out on the unspoilt beaches with open air seafood restaurants in Yzerfontein, Langebaan and Lamberts Bay.

   
8. Evita-se-Perron
   

   A famous theatre in the small town of Darling run by the infamous South African political satirist Pieter-Dirk Uys. The name was inspired by its location at the former Darling Station and by Evita Perron of Argentina. 'Perron' in Afrikaans means ‘station platform’ and ‘Evita’ is also the name of Uys' most famous characters, Mrs Evita Bezuidenhout. Uys performs his internationally-acclaimed cabaret in the Perron’s two theatres, often with the inimitable Mrs Bezuidenhout on stage, or with a cast of familiar political characters.

   
9. Lamberts Bay Bird Island
   

   This is the world´s most accessible Cape Gannet colony. Here you can witness unique gannet mating dances (April -September), and even join in on their vociferous screeching. Bird Islands' Visitor Centre features an aquarium that offers an account of West Coast sea life, as well as a penguin pool and auditorium with shows and guided tours. Bird Island boat trips can take you to get up close and personal with a penguin, cuddle a Cape fur seal and view Cormorants.

   
10. Wine and Olive Routes
    

    Explore and taste delicious award-winning wines on the West Coast Wine Route, the Swartland Wine & Olive Route or do the Darling Wine & Art Experience. Three of the largest wine cellars in South Africa - Namaqua Wines, Klawer Wine Cellars and Lutzville Vineyards - can be found on the Cape West Coast Wine Route alone, as well as the country's largest organic wine cellar, Stellar Organics. Darling is also the first wine producing district to be awarded membership status by the Biodiversity Wine Initiative (BWI) with all individual farms achieving accreditation.