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Get Ready to Be Floored by Flowers!
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 rolling out the red carpet (and pink, white, orange, blue, yellow, purple – you get the idea).
To help visitors enjoy the best of the flower season, the team at Bergrivier Tourism have put together a list of the region’s flower power hotspots!
Flower Power Destinations and Must-See Events
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 coexist 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) – offering 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 homemade 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. 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 with the Piketberg Historic Route, which leads you past 12 fascinating points of interest.
From August 25th to 31st, the town’s NG Kerk is hosting “Blomweek 2024,” where you can feast your eyes on floral arrangements that make your garden at home look, well, pretty average. And for those who enjoy a good market, the Piket-Bo-Berg Farmers Market on August 31st is the place to be. Think of it as a farmer’s market but with extra charm sprinkled on top.
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 Farmstalls
No trip to Bergrivier is complete without stopping by some of the region’s farmstalls. 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 farmstall 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 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 the full scoop on events, places to stay, and more, check out Bergrivier Tourism.