piketberg

The small, historic, farming town of Piketberg is about an hour and fifteen minutes drive on the N7 from Cape Town and only an hours drive from the West Coast. Lying at the foot of the Piketberg mountain, it is surrounded by undulating fields of wheat, green vineyards, fruit orchards, fynbos and flowering yellow canola.

Close by are the villages of Aurora to the west, Redelinghuys to the north and Koringberg to the south. If one is looking for a quiet lifestyle then this is the place to explore.

Dutch farmers began to settle in the early 1700s. Piketberg became established in 1836, when the farm Grotefontein was given to the church council. The old town, now a series of beautifully restored cottages, grew up around the church, which still stands - an imposing neo-gothic style cathedral with beautiful window patterns, plastered panels and interesting towers. In 1868 J Versveld started farming on top of the mountains. In 1889 he constructed a pass which today offers views across the low lying areas. The Versveld Pass is named after him.

The perfect way to view the whole town and surrounding areas is to take a trip up the Versveld pass to the top of the mountain where you will drive through acres of apple, pear, peach and orange orchards.

On the way up the scent of wild rosemary fills your senses and in season, you will enjoy the sight of many yellow Waboom and pink Nerifolia Proteas. From the summit, after taking a turn at Langeberg road, there is viewing point at a pine tree from which, on a clear day, you can see Table Mountain.

You will not want to leave this beautiful area. Spend a few days exploring and stay at one of the guesthouses advertised here and be refreshed in spirit!