vanrhynsdorp

Vanrhynsdorp situated in the folds of the towering Matzikamma and Gifberg Mountains on the N7, 300 km north of Cape Town, en route to Namibia is the heart of the three botanical kingdoms that converge here, namely the Nama-Karoo vegetation, Knersvlakte succulents and Cape fynbos in the mountains.

Here is the start of the the vast, semi-desert Nama Karoo, with its typical vegetation of succulents and semi-arid climate, and Vanrhynsdorp is home to a succulent nursery that is the largest of its kind in the world.

Klawer

Less than three hours drive from Cape Town lies Klawer a charming little town on the banks of the Olifants River which winds through many award winning vineyards.

Winemaking in the area with its rich soils and south-facing slopes that receive a cool nightly breeze from the nearby Atlantic ocean, is a tradition that Wine Cellars around Klawer continue with pride. Before the market value fell, raisins were produced on the many irrigated vineyards, which now produce wines. The Klawer cellars may be visited.

Klawer was named for the indigenous wild clover that abounds here. Farms offer various agricultural activities and picnicking while the nearby Doring River is absolutely ideal for all kinds of watersports. The town plays an important role in the Olifants River Irrigation scheme.