If you thought Spring was just about dusting off your allergy meds, think again! This year, as she does every year, Mother Nature is throwing a floral fiesta across the Cape West Coast and inland regions, and the Bergrivier area is no exception.
To help visitors enjoy the best of the flower season the team at Bergrivier Tourism have put a list of the region’s flower power hot spots together.
Velddrif:
Bokkoms, Blooms and Birdwatching
First stop, Velddrif – a charming village perched on the banks of the Berg River, where flowers, fresh fish, and fabulous birdlife co-exist in perfect harmony. Wander down Bokkomlaan, where the flowers aren’t the only things steeped in local flavour. Here historic buildings, eclectic shops and jetties line a quaint dirt road, which is named after bokkoms, the salted mullet strung into bunches and hung to dry like biltong (it’s the local delicacy in this area). It offers more photo ops than your Instagram can handle.
And if you’re in town on a Saturday head over to the Velddrif Village Market. It’s like a treasure hunt, but with home-made jams and artisanal crafts as your prize.
Support your local flower hero
For the ultimate flower-powered experience, buy proteas directly from Haiynes Luyt, a community-based flower seller in Noordhoek, Velddrif. His blooms are as beautiful as they are affordable—what’s not to love?
Aurora:
The little town with big views (and bigger blooms)
Next, we’re off to Aurora, the best-kept secret of flower enthusiasts, and anyone who’s ever wished they could live in a postcard life. This town may be small, but its blooms are big and bold.
Make sure to visit the majestic Dutch Reformed church, where the architecture is as impressive as the town’s mountain backdrop. And if you’re feeling for a cuppa, pop in at Koekeloer & Koffiemoer for tea, coffee and cakes. Pinkies-up, because nothing pairs with flowers quite like a good cup of tea and a sweet treat (or three).
Piketberg:
Where History meets Horticulture
Piketberg isn’t just another pretty place to stop and smell the flowers, though it’s definitely that too. This town, nestled at the foot of its namesake mountain, is a veritable time machine with its historic buildings and well-preserved architecture. Take a trip down memory lane on the Piketberg Historic Route, which leads you past 12 fascinating points of interest.
Porterville:
Flowers, Art and a Dash of Magic
Finally, we arrive in Porterville, where the flowers are just as captivating as the local art scene. Known as the home of the rare Disa Uniflora, this town is a haven for both nature lovers and culture vultures. After a day of frolicking among the flowers take a stroll through the town’s many art studios. It’s like a museum, but without the “do not touch” signs.
Flower-scented Shopping and Farm Stalls
No trip to Bergrivier is complete without stopping by some of the region’s farm stalls. Whether you’re after a delicious meal, fresh produce, hand-made artisanal crafts, or quirky souvenirs, these spots have got you covered:. Kardoesie (in the Piekenierskloof Pass on the way to Citrusdal on the N7): Perfect for a pit stop on the way to flower-filled adventures.. Desert Rose Koringberg (on the N7 at the turn-off to Koringberg): A must-visit gem with treats that are as delightful as the blooms outside. This farm stall was also a top contender in the KFM Best of the Cape Awards.. Skrik van Rondom (on the Redelinghuys road): Don’t let the name scare you; this place is all about good vibes and even better snacks.. Deli on Main (Dwarskersbos): A deli that dishes up deliciousness daily, and is also a contender in the Best of the Cape Awards.
Make Your Plans Now!
This flower season in the Bergrivier region is shaping up to be one for the record books due to the heavy rainfall, so don’t miss out!
Whether you’re snapping pics of the flowers, exploring quaint towns or indulging in a high tea, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
For more on what the region has on offer, visit the Bergrivier Tourism website at www.bergriviertourism.co.za for the full scoop on events, places to stay, and more.
