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Suburb GuideClick on the Suburb name below for more info
Hopefield
The town was so named in 1853 for Messrs Hope (chief of customs) and Field (revenue secretary). Langrietvlei was inhabited in 1715 when a Dutch `free burgher´ farmer-settler arrived to start one of the Sandveld´s first wheat farming ventures.Aficionados of fine architecture will appreciate Hopefield´s crudely thatched roofs which are the product of local reeds. Inside these homes, the long-standing West Coast building tradition of combining reeds with mud make for temperature-sensitive living during hot summer months, and warm living during the cold winter months. One such example can be viewed at Hartebeeshuisie.The town bears testimony to the Anglo-Boer War, notably via the English soldiers´ graves, coupled with the fact that Boer Commander Manie Maritz had taken a brief respite here. Hopefield is a quiet, rural residential suburb nestled between the r27 and N7 freeway along the West coast of the Swartland region, approximately 85 km from Cape Town central. Hopefield is a residential suburb situated 20 minutes, 40km from Vredenburg, the capital of the West Coast. 35 minutes from Saldanha and 45 minutes from Langebaan. The Vredenburg / Saldanha region has experienced phenomenal growth because of the steel manufacturing industries and the expansion of the harbour facilities. As such demand for well priced good quality housing have been on the increase. Hopefield offer good value for money as it is situated near all the facilities that Cape Town, Vredenburg and the surrounding towns can offer. Perfect for retirement or young couples who cannot afford the high prices of housing elsewhere. Hopefield is half way between Malmesbury and Vredenburg, 115 km from Cape Town. The town is well known for its annual fynbos show. In spring the area surrounding the town, particularly towards Berg River Station and Langebaan Road, becomes a multicoloured tapestry of flowers and heath. The fynbos in this area is unique and attracts large numbers of tourists each year. The town is situated along the eastern bank of the creek which turns into a river in winter. As a result, it is always attractively green around the town. Fossils were discovered, including the skull of the so-called 'Saldanha Man', a replica of which is part of the display in the information office picturing life in the region some five hundred thousand years ago. The nearby Fossil Park is a treat for all visitors to the west coast. Before the modern West Coast road was built, the road between Cape Town and Saldanha went through Hopefield. The rail link with Vredenburg passes through the town, and the first passenger train stopped here on 28 February 1903. The rail link with Cape Town contributed significantly to the development of the Sandveld. In 1945 a bridge was built across the Salt River and this significantly improved contact with the surrounding area, particularly during winter. In the same year the first road in the town was tarred. Flavours and faces combine with fast and leisurely Hopefield is largely defined by flowers, birdlife and farming, together with a history steeped in archaeological finds... Fossil deposits from Elandsfontein are on display at the tourism bureau, together with a cast of Saldanha Man.Wheat and sheep farming continue to feature as the town´s mainstay. Honey farming, in turn, is fuelled by the bees´ attraction to the sweet fynbos flowers - 500 species in all!Each spring, the green winter wonderland is transformed to an overnight spectacle of blindingly bright indigenous daisies and fynbos.It comes as no surprise, therefore, that Hopefield hosts an annual spring wildflower show, which takes place every August. Budding botanists will also likely find their feet (not to mention their soul) on the Kerschboschfontein Walking Trail or the Heldervlei Hiking Trail. Apply foot to pedal on the Kopervlei 4x4 Trail. ------------------------------------------ Back to Top ------------------------------------------ Jacobsbaai
When thinking of Jacobsbaai, Authenticity and culture are the words that come to mind. It has the effect of bringing one back to the things which are important and lasting in life. The building of Jacobsbaai was prompted by passion for this and which carried it through to being the West Coast success story. As far as nature is concerned it has to be the spectacular spring wildflowers that bloom from August to October that first comes to mind. But don't forget about the rocky outcrops that form dramatic focus points within the ocean whilst the boulders along the shoreline offer interesting vantage points apart from being just plain beautiful. There is no lifestyle pollution in this area like no factories or squatter camps. No noise besides the waves or any odours or smoke, just the fresh air. Jacobsbaai is a development that successfully captures the heart of a style that is unique to this region, the renaissance of a lost West Coast charm. The village has building regulations and guidelines which have created an authentic, historic West Coast feel and look. Owners do not have to build immediately. Boating, fishing and diving are the main activities with coastal hiking trails and dune riding not far behind. For the less active type, the area provides perfect opportunity for Whale and Bird watching. Apart from all these, the main activity at Jacobsbaai will always remain rest and relaxation. ------------------------------------------ Back to Top ------------------------------------------ Langebaan
Langebaan is a little seaside town on the West Coast. The lagoon is part of a protected area, the West Coast National Park, and is also popular for all kinds of water sport. The area is popular with nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. During the flower season the area is transformed into a giant flower garden. Langebaan is a very popular holiday resort and offers a wide variety of activities and attractions within the area. Langebaan is referred to as the "Jewel of the West Coast", the picturesque town of Langebaan nestles against the shores of the peaceful Langebaan lagoon. Langebaan being just over an hour from Cape Town, visitors will find tranquility, vast open landscapes, a fascinating array of fauna and flora, delicious seafood, breathtaking blue waters with white sandy beaches and a rich historical heritage. A visit to Langebaan will appeal to both adventure seekers and those who need to get away from the city. With almost a full year of sunny weather and safe water conditions, this is a world renowned Mecca for kite-surfers, windsurfers, kayakers, fishermen and yachtsmen. Another attraction is the West Coast National Park with a size of about 30 000ha which borders on the south of the lagoon. The waters are home to flamingos, whales and the park is known worldwide as a paradise for birders. There is also game viewing, while the award-winning Geelbek Restaurant and tourist centre which is housed in a building from the history, is definitely worth a visit. During the months of August and September, the spring flower display makes it an unforgettable experience. The National Park is also the place where "Eve's Footprint" was discovered, one of the earliest proofs of human existence on the planet. The regions ancient history can be further enjoyed through a visit to the fascinating West Coast Fossil Park which situated just outside of town. The children can enjoy a visit to the fun park where they can try their skills at go carts, quad bikes, trampolines or the waterslide. The men can enjoy a round of golf at the Country Club while the women can pamper themselves to holistic beauty treatments or browse around the many shops offering everything from curios, clothing, sports gear and home interiors to arts and crafts. Horse-riding is also a popular outdoor activity and viewing the town from the waters edge is a must. In the evenings, try your luck in the casino or enjoy live entertainment at Club Mykonos Resort. Langebaan offers free stunning sunsets on the menus of many trendy bars and restaurants close to the beach. You will receive of the best service, not to mention delectable cuisine including traditional boerekos or pasta, Karoo Lamb, garden salads, game or fresh seafood. The numerous accommodation establishments in town also offer something for everyone. From an up-market boutique hotel to back-packers, self-catering or family friendly holiday homes to rent, suitable for anyone. The Tourism Office has friendly and knowledgeable staff on hand to assist any visitors to the area with useful information, maps and brochures. With the rich seafood culture of the area, entertainment and lots of family fun on offer, Langebaan is the ideal place to use as an accommodation base should visitors wish to explore the numerous quaint fishing towns such as Paternoster, Velddrif or St Helena Bay. The holiday periods are very popular and during the months of May and June it is known to locals as "the secret season" with wonderful mild weather to enjoy. Whether you are a nature lover, culture lover, sun worshipper, sportsman or adventurer, you are sure to find Langebaan a veritable paradise and will be touched by the warm hospitality of the West Coast people. Be assured that Langebaan will leave you relaxed and inspired! More Info Langebaan is one of the oldest and well-known West Coast towns. The Langebaan lagoon reaches southwards for 17km behind the Atlantic Coast, from Saldanha Bay in the north to Geelbek in the south. It is 4km wide in places and is well known for its white mussels, birds, beautiful flowers during spring (August to September) and the Postberg Nature Reserve. Postberg is known for its flowers and game, including black and blue wildebeest, bontebok and eland. The park originally existed of 300 hectares, but was later extended to 27 600 hectares. The park includes Preekstoel and fishing communities such as Kraal Bay and Churchhaven. The historical Geelbek farmhouse has been converted into a centre for environmental education. Birdlife is abundant on the islands of Jutten, Malgas, Schaapen and Marcus. Langebaan is situated 124km from Cape Town. The name Langebaan is according to tradition a result of one of the three legends:
Leentjiesklip, a caravan park, was named after a runaway sailor called Lynch. Earlier it was called Lynch Point. Fossils found on the farm Elandsfontein, in 1953, traced Langebaan’s origins to a period ten million years ago. Langebaan was also the meeting place of the Khoi leaders. During 1662 Jan van Riebeeck sent scouts to the bay. Their negative report about the lack of fresh water however made him loose interest in the area. The bay was only used to provide the Cape with fish, eggs, birds and to keep sheep on Schaapen Island, for the use of passing ships. Lions and other predators did a lot of damage. Tracks and skeletons of rhinos, elephants and hippos were also found on the island. Salamander Bay was named after a ship, which arrived in the bay to provide its sailors, who had scurvy, with fresh food. From 1658 free burgers started moving to the bay. To stop them battering with foreign ships, the Company built Oude Post (Kraal Bay) with a small garrison. In 1666 six men were sent to protect Oude Post and the islands from French annexation. They built a fort and in 1669 the garrison was enlarged to 15. Admiral de la Haye and his fleet invaded the bay in 1670. He took over the fort and arrested the garrison and a few burghers. After a few days he released everybody and departed. Not long afterwards the Khoi, under leadership of Kees, raided the fort and killed 4 men. The rest persisted until 1677. In this time quite a few pirates made the bay their home. Geelbekfontein was the first official farm and was awarded to a free burgher in 1729. In 1732 Oude Post was moved 2km north and gardens planted. During 1870 Salamander Bay was used as a quarantine station for sailors with infectious diseases. Through the years the islands were frequently used for sailors suffering from scurvy. Now camps were erected, with tents, to keep the sick away from the Cape. The cemetery at Salamander Bay is witness to the smallpox epidemic of 1882. By 1893 the camps were closed, but they were reopened during the Anglo Boer War when there were outbreaks of bubonic plague and smallpox. In 1909 John Bryde opened a whaling station at Donkergat when Greenland whales became scarce. His 3 whale catchers were the start of a modern South African whaling fleet. Shortly after this Carl Ellefsen opened a factory at Salamander Bay. The whalers had great success and during the closed season they repaired their boats and equipment. The scarcity of whale oil made prices rise drastically during the First World War. In 1926 a big fire started when 2000 barrels of whale oil exploded. The factories survived, but had a lot of competition from other factories on the South African Coast. The Great Depression of 1930 brought an end to whaling. The town started to prosper and most people made their living form fishing. In 1919 the first town council was chosen.
Langebaan became popular with retired people and as a holiday resort, especially with overseas visitors. On 19 November 1976 the town received municipal status. A lot of the foreign surnames under the local community can be traced to fortune hunters hoping to make money from whaling. With the first British occupation in 1781, the Dutch and English battled it out in the bay. One of the leaders of the 1820 Settlers took over Oude Post and the Company moved their post to Oostewal. Mr Parker later returned to England, because he could not keep up with his payments. The area remained quiet until the guano rush in 1844. For the next few years hundreds of ships stripped the islands of guano, and lawlessness was the order of the day. An English warship was stationed in the bay to keep order and taxes were levied on the guano. ------------------------------------------ Back to Top ------------------------------------------ Paternoster
The source of the name Paternoster (Latin for "Our Father") remains unknown. One explanation is that the name is associated with the heartfelt prayers prayed by shipwrecked Portuguese sailors. Another explanation is that it takes its name from the fishing tackle known as paternoster. (TV Bulpin, Discovering South Africa (second revised edition 1980)) CAPE COLUMBINE NATURE RESERVE (TIETIESBAAI) The reserve covers an area of 263 ha along the rocky stretch of coastline with numerous inlets and coves. This area was declared a nature reserve in December 1973. The vegetation of typical West Coast veld ranges from the well-known West Coast fynbos to Karoo succulent. In spring (August to October) the area is covered in a bright tapestry of wild flowers. This reserve boasts the last manually controlled lighthouse to be built in South Africa. It is usually the first South African lighthouse to be seen by ships coming from Europe. The lighthouse was built in 1936 on Castle Rock. The light stands at a height of 80m above sea level and casts a beam, which is visible for about 50km. The significant white boulders, where great humped rocks crouch around little rocky bays, make this unspoiled gem one of the most beautiful beaches on the West Coast. The vast beach, washed by a fresh Atlantic Ocean can satisfy the enthusiastic kayaker in a safe paddling environment. Apart from dolphins and whales, the coastline, together with an abundance of mussels, is very famous for the West Coast Rock Lobster (Jasus Lalandii), Abalone and other seafood. The peaceful surroundings that typify this place of "Red Gold" also offer pristine hiking trails and unforgettable sunsets that slowly vanish in brilliant colours General Paternoster, meaning "Our Father" ostensibly took its name from the heartfelt prayers of shipwrecked Portuguese sailors. The Columbine Lighthouse, which is the first lighthouse to be sighted by ships coming from Europe, is situated at Tieties Bay in the Cape Columbine Nature Reserve. Declared a nature reserve in 1973, the reserve boasts with colourful displays of wildflowers in spring and miles of natural beaches and spectacular views from the lighthouse. You can also experience the delicacies of the West Coast and have a taste of well-known seafood like crayfish, snoek and many other delicacies to choose from. For the nature lovers the area offers spectacular hiking trails along the scenic coastline with varying lengths. The area also caters for the adventure seekers and offers sea kayaking, fishing excursions and diving. The town has very strong fisherman architecture with a preserved atmosphere of a fishing community of a bygone era. When visiting Paternoster you will be welcomed by the friendly locals and you will have an immediate feel of relaxation. Stroll along the 8km of unspoiled white beaches feeling, seeing and smelling the gem of the ocean. In the spring the area is covered in bright tapestries of flowers among others "Bokbaai Vygie ", "Pienk Lewertjie", "Krulblaar Gousblom" and the extremely rare and endemic "Paternoster Froetang" (Romulea barkerae) Shopping experience of a lifetime Romantic sunsets Stretches of sandy beaches Accommodation Paternoster offers award winning as well as star graded accommodation and facilities for the adventurous at heart. You can choose from a wide variety of facilities amongst other a hotel that is more than 100 years old, guesthouses, self-catering, bed and breakfasts and basic tent facilities. Some of the facilities boast with splendid views of the coastline and are situated close to the many activities Paternoster has to offer. Conference venues The hotel offers conferencing facilities. Attractions The Columbine Lighthouse is the first one to be seen by ships coming from Europe and is only 5km from Paternoster. It was commissioned in 1936 and derives its name from the barque Columbine, which was wrecked there in 1829. The Lighthouse is built in the nature reserve, which consists mainly of sandveld, a combination of coastal fynbos and succulents. Adventure and Sport If you seek the ultimate adventure, you can do scuba and wreck diving or go on traditional fishing trips. You can also do site seeing by boat, watching whales, dolphins, seals and penguins or on land abalone and oyster farming as well as seasonal flowers. You can also do sea kayaking or mountain biking in the area. Dinning and Entertainment Paternoster boasts three choice restaurants which serve up local seafood, salads and steaks. Do as the locals do and indulge in a late afternoon seafood braai. Buy your fish fresh from market - better still, experience the thrill of landing your supper through your newly-acquired fishing talents! Visitor Services The town offers many interesting shops that sell anything from hammocks and kites to jewellery and honey. Emergency services are available including police, ambulance and the NSRI for sea rescues. Banking facilities and main shops are in the nearest town, which is Vredenburg and only 15 minutes away. ------------------------------------------ Back to Top ------------------------------------------ Saldanha
Saldanha is situated at the northern corner of the largest natural bay in South Africa and boasts a coastline with gorgeous, cosy beaches. Saldanha, formerly known as Hoedjies Bay, has a fascinating history. More than 500 years ago, Saldanha Bay was discovered by the Portuguese. For centuries, geographic isolation and the lack of water prevented large-scale urban and industrial development. This has meant that much of the area is still in pristine condition, despite changes commencing during World War II. Water sport enthusiasts will find it a paradise: Langebaan is a resort town where the blue Langebaan Lagoon stretches for 17km parallel to the Atlantic Ocean. The lagoon plays host to activities varying from water skiing to spear fishing and birdwatchers join the queue: flamingos, sandpipers and plovers are some of the feathered friends who like to feed on the shrimp and prawn living in the mud banks. The Saldanha Basin also offers an ideal location for a variety of water sports, in the form of marinas, moorings and waterfront developments. Apart from the obvious sea and water activities like fishing, diving, surfing, yachting, water-skiing, sailboarding and what have you, there are also numerous historical and eco-attractions, as well as hiking trails, mountain biking and 4x4 trails. Saldanha's local economy is strongly dependent on fishing, mussels, seafood processing, the steel industry and the harbour. Its sheltered harbour plays an important part in the Sishen-Saldanha iron-ore project in which Saldanha Steel is a large part of. Saldanha is also host to a Naval training base and the South African Military Academy due to its strong historic military links. Wildflowers display themselves during late winter and spring at the SAS Saldanha Nature Reserve and Southern Right Whales visit the waters in and around the nature reserve. Saldanha also has a second reserve called The Postberg Private Nature Reserve (open August and September) and is not only home to spectacular wild flowers, but also hosts several antelope and game species, including zebra, kudu, gemsbok, blue and black wildebeest and eland. The current population of the town is estimated at 72,000. ------------------------------------------ Back to Top ------------------------------------------ St Helena Bay
St Helena Bay was "discovered" by the Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama on 7 Nov. 1497, during his pioneer voyage from Europe to India. He named the bay after Saint Helena, an influential Christian and mother of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great. It was on the shores of this bay that the first encounter between a European explorer and the indigenous Khoikhoi (nomadic herders of sheep and cattle) took place. Nowadays, St Helena Bay is one of the world's principal fishing centres and has the largest concentration of fishing factories which provide more that half of the fish produced in South Africa annually. These factories are distributed along the south-western coast of the bay and include communities like Stompneus Bay, West Point, Sandy Point and Steenberg's Cove. The cold Benguela current surges upwards along this part of the coast and brings nutrient rich waters to the bay resulting in the abundant sea life. In winter, snoek are caught and the harbour is a vibrant, bustling hive of activity, mostly because the fish are sold straight off the boats. More than half of the fish processed annually in South Africa is processed here. St Helena Bay is a popular tourist destination, especially during the spring wild flower season, with visitors from all over the world who flock to the area for relaxation and recreation. Ancient granite hills and boulders form a backdrop to the village and offer stunning views of the bay and across to the Piketberg mountains, while the white sandy beaches are perfect for beachcombing and even a refreshing dip in the Atlantic. St Helena Bay is made unique by the fact that it is the only place on the West Coast where the sun rises and sets over the sea. This is particularly important for early morning whale and bird watchers. St Helena Bay is one of the most popular bays for whales to visit and calve. From August to November, the Southern Right Whales come in to the bay to calve, and can be viewed from the shore all around the bay. Humpback whales are also present in the area. Heaviside's dolphins are found in large numbers at any time along with schools of dusky and common dolphins. Large groups can be seen chasing fish along the shore or simply flying through the waves out of sheer enjoyment. ------------------------------------------ Back to Top ------------------------------------------ VelddrifGeneral The ostensibly remote town Velddrif, which includes Laaiplek, Noordhoek, Port Owen and Dwarskersbos, looks fairly peaceful and relaxed, but the sincerity of its people with their distinctive West Coast hospitality delights visitors who enjoy the natural beauty of this exceptional area. First time tourists often have the impression of a vast, dreary and dry landscape. This illusion remains only until they have experienced the wonders of the sea, rich bird life, white sand, flowers and beautiful river and waterways and then savoured their first seafoods such as harders, bokkoms, snoek or a fish "potjie". Velddrif and Laaiplek are situated on the banks of the Berg River estuary. Velddrif owes it´s name to a farming family, Smit, who drove their sheep through the "drift in the veld" across the Berg River in search of better grazing. Laaiplek, originally known as Rooibaai, owes its name to the large amount of fish and agricultural products which were loaded there. Relax in Aurora, a tranquil, unspoilt Sandveld village with brilliant clear light and clean air. The area is a birdlover´s paradise and prominent for the variety and number of inland, sea and marsh birds. Black eagles circle the peaks behind the village, sunbirds flit among the garden flowers and the European bee-eater is a regular guest. Ecologically, the area is extremely rich with a unique variation of fynbos. Most of the winter it is green and attractive, in summer very arid, but in early spring, when it rains, the countryside becomes a vast flower garden, a mutiny of yellow and white, lavender and orange. Also a number of artists, architects, potters, graphic designers, and makers of children´s toys live and work in Aurora. Where the Berg River meets the Atlantic Ocean Experience the tranquility of this area. Springflower spectacular! Birdwatchers paradise Accommodation The tourist has a choice of two hotels, holiday resorts, guest houses and bed and breakfast establishments as well as self catering accommodation. Aurora boasts with bed and breakfast establishments as well as self catering options. Family run hotels with true West Coast hospitality, up market guesthouses with a "shabby chic" ambience, affordable, value for many bed and breakfast establishments as well as wonderful self catering accommodation - from the bare basic rustic accommodation to mountain top or beachfront accommodation. Conference venues Velddrif can handle conferences with ease - the different venues can handle different sizes and configurations. Riverview venues as well as stylish venues on a farm form part of the options to choose from. Attractions From the rare little Blue Heron and Redshank to thousands of Curlew Sandpipers and Plovers. Flocks of feeding birds can be seen on the tidal river. Small buck are found on the local farms in the Aurora area and plans are in the works to state a nature conservancy in the district. The fishing boats, yachts and "bakkies" (fishing smacks) utilize the safe harbor mouth to reach the rich fishing grounds of St. Helena Bay. Originally a large sandbank blocked the river mouth but with the assistance of engineers, a canal was blasted out to link the river with the bay and thus the fishing harbor, Laaiplek developed. Fish is processed in local factories. To this day bokkoms are dried and bunched on the banks of the river in the old, traditional manner. Adventure and Sports A Deep-water marina provides all the facilities a yachtsman would want and sailing in St. Helena bay is only a pleasure. The Berg River waters are warm and safe, and swimming, rowing, sailing, angling and bird watching can be experienced, as also waterskiing in selected areas. Riverboats take people up the river on bird watching or sunset cruises. The beaches of Dwarskersbos provide ample opportunity for hiking or swimming. Hiking trails, mountain bike trails Dinning and Entertainement Health and Wellness Change your lifestyle and relax in the beautiful setting of Aurora Visitor Services Velddrif offers all that is needed: supermarkets, café´s, banks, post office, petrol & service stations, as well as two doctors and dentists that visit Velddrif weekly. Aurora provides the basic facilities: post office, small general dealer and petrol station. ------------------------------------------ Back to Top ------------------------------------------ VredenburgGeneral We built this city on agriculture! As the business nerve centre of the West Coast, Vredenburg is also a springboard to coastal towns. Access to water is what had attracted settlers and their Khoi predecessors here. A fresh water spring between the 18th century farms Heuningklip and Witteklip caused strife between the respective farm owners. The site became known as Twisfontein (´quarrel spring´), later renamed Prosesfontein (´lawsuit spring´). The Dutch Reformed Church came to the rescue in 1875 when they built the town’s first church near the disputed spring and promptly renamed the town Vredenburg (peaceful town). Problem solved! Electrification in 1952 saw coal and outdoor clay ovens replaced by modern equipment, although gas and paraffin continue to be used by poorer people. Fish factories became mechanized. The electrification process had hailed in an era of permanent social and economic changes. Modern conveniences and fish factories juxtaposed against the Fossil Park´s extinct three-toed horses and other lovelies... Vredenburg has it all. The only argument you´re likely to have in modern-day Vredenburg (the Twisfontein Monument is today the sole reminder of that water tiff) is in agreeing on which activities you and your travel mates plan to indulge . AREA INFO ON VREDENBURG Vredenburg, situated 138 km from Cape Town and 12 km from Saldanha, is the centre of much of the business activity on the West Coast. It is the hub of several smaller towns and is regarded as the administrative centre of an area stretching from Langebaan in the south to Velddrif in the north. Just outside the town is an excellent golf course and various other sporting facilities are also available. The most important attractions in the surrounding area are the many lovely holiday resorts. Of interest outside the town, on the road to Saldanha, is the Witteklip, a rock with a massive opening through the middle of it. In the early days, so we are told, a wagon with a team of oxen could turn in the opening. Approximately 5 km away, on the road to Hopefield, is a riding resort where groups can go on adventurous horse trails in the veld or along the coast, under the supervision of an experienced rider. Located to the west of Vredenburg is Trekoskraal, a beautiful unspoilt, coastal area ------------------------------------------ Back to Top ------------------------------------------ Yzerfontein
This tranquil seaside village lies 85km north of Cape Town on the R27. Yzerfontein is renowned for its un spoilt beaches, including the pristine 16-Mile Beach which stretches all the way to Postberg Nature Reserve within the West Coast National Park. Yzerfontein's small craft harbour is a fisherman's haven. It is well known for its snoek and crayfish - some 60% of all the line fish caught on the West Coast is landed here, providing an income to many local inhabitants. In the spring the veldt and dunes in and around the village are a spectacular sight with their masses of brightly coloured indigenous flowers. The bay is also a favoured destination for whales in the spring. These graceful giants of the ocean come into the bay to calve. Visitors can watch from a number of vantage points while the whales play in the sea close inshore. Originally laid out and developed by Abraham Katz in 1936, the village of Yzerfontein has remained a popular holiday resort. Over the years, it has gradually grown and we can now offer visitors a wide range of accommodation, restaurants and things to do. General This seaside village lies 85 km north of Cape Town on the R27. Situated between Cape Town and Langebaan, Yzerfontein is a grand base from which to explore the many attractions of the Cape West Coast. Closer inspection reveals that this really is a tourist´s paradise. In Yzerfontein, where warm, lazy days stretch into long, pleasurable evenings, you´ll find rest and adventure in equal proportions. Yzerfontein is known for its natural beauty, vast stretches of beach and tranquillity, as it is for its tradition of hospitality. Basking in year round sunshine, a splendid winter climate where balmy, daytime temperatures rarely fall below 10 degrees. Yzerfontein will capture your heart and remain a highlight of your visit to the Cape West Coast. You can enjoy mountain biking, whale and dolphin watching, bird watching, scenic drives and day tours as well as several hiking trails and watersports such as skiing, sailing, surfing and angling. Excellent view points from Pearl Bay Heights - from where you have an unspoilt view of Cape Town´s Table Mountain in the south and Dassen Island in the west. The bay is also a favoured destination for whales in the spring. These graceful giants of the ocean come into the bay to calve. Visitors can watch from a number of vantage points while the whales play in the sea close inshore. Yzerfontein is ideal for water sports of any kind Yzerfontein is known for its natural beauty, vast stretches of beach and tranquility, as it is for its tradition of hospitality. Yzerfontein means seafood - snoek and crayfish. You will find something in blossom at any time of year, but the best flowering occurs during late winter and spring - between July and November. Yzerfontein´s small craft harbour is a fisherman´s haven. Approximately 60% of all line fish caught on the Cape West Coast is landed here. Accommodation In Yzerfontein you have many accommodation to select from. Make your choice from the excellent B&B´s, and self-catering establishments or bring your caravan and camp in our beautiful caravan park - rated one of the 10 best in South Africa. Go to sleep with the sound of the waves in your ears and rise with the happy chatter of the birds in the morning while watching the whales from your bed. Enjoy lovely views of the sea, Cape Town´s Table Mountain, Dassen Island or fynbos too. Tours and Agencies Tours from Yzerfontein include day trips to enjoy the magic of Cape Town, the richness of Cape West Coast indigenous flora and fauna and the variety of vineyards for which the Swartland and Cape Winelands are known. You can spend time at Yzerfontein, a small fishing village and be introduced to our South African lifestyle, food, wine and hospitality. You can relax and enjoy our lovely sunsets at sea. Conference venues Come and have your wedding outdoors in Yzerfontein. Breathtaking views as backgrounds and large open spaces to accommodate all your family and friends on your special day. Have your conference in the town´s community Hall, which can seat 130 people. There are facilities available for catering. Local restaurants can provide mouth-watering dishes for any occasion. Events Yzerfontein comes alive especially during Easter and Christmas time. Various local bazaars and fete´s happen this time of the year where homemade cakes, cookies, pies, jams and deserts can be enjoyed. There is also loads of entertainment for the kids like games and pony rides. Take a walk through the stalls or let the local artists entertain you. There is a tractor that rides through the town and everyone wanting to come to the fete´s can hop on for a ride. All keen fishermen should not miss out the Smirnoff Classic. Here you can win prizes by catching the heaviest snoek or the biggest crayfish. Attractions Come and enjoy the wines of the Swartland. Sit back and enjoy boat trips out to sea and around Dassen Island. View a variety of spectacular birds and beautiful flowers in season. Come learn about the lime kilns and see the historical Fish house reflecting the history of our town. Magnificent views can be enjoyed, either from the waterfront or from Pearl Bay Heights. Here Cape Town´s Table Mountain and Dassen Island can be seen. The bay is also a favoured destination for whales in the spring. These graceful giants of the ocean come into the bay to calve and visitors can watch the whales close-up from a number of vantage points. Early morning and at night you can see the "greysbokkies" grazing amongst the fynbos and in the town gardens. Adventure and Sport Bring your own gear and enjoy some wind and kite surfing, kayaking, canoeing, surfing and waterskiing. Go fishing or catch your own crayfish. Hire a boat and go on a boat trip out to sea and around Dassen Island near Yzerfontein´s coastline. We have bowling, badminton and tennis, so bring your gear and come and join in the fun. Yzerfontein has a lovely 16-mile hiking trail along the white sand beach taking you through the harbour en-route to the Schaap Island. For 4x4 enthusiasts, the Blombos 4x4 trail is the place to go. Enjoy bird watching the whole year round, including a variety of garden birds and seabirds. The wild flowers in season (August - October) will take your breath away. Dinning and Entertainment Come and enjoy a selection of mouth-watering seafoods fresh from the ocean. Sit down at tables set on the white beaches of Yzerfontein or in spectacular restaurants. Relax while dining in very casual atmospheres and savour the tastes of the town. Yzerfontein also has fast food restaurants offering delicious pizzas and pastas and cozy coffee shops offering freshly baked delicacies and warm drinks. On your way into or out of Yzerfontein stop at the farm stall and enjoy a delicious farm house breakfast or for lunch try out two of Cape Town´s local stews, the "waterblommetjiebredie" and the "tamatiebredie". Visitors Services We have dedicated doctors to provide all the medical help you will call for. The Cape West Coast Supperette will provide the visitor with fresh fruit and vegetables, freshly baked bread, buns and groceries. The filling station sells diesel and petrol to keep your car and boat going. If you want to build that dream house, we have several building contractors and electricians to choose from. Safety services are also provided in Yzerfontein. Gardening services are available to keep your garden neat and clean and the local hardware store is a haven for the d.i.y (do it yourself) person. ------------------------------------------ Back to Top ------------------------------------------ |
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Farming depends on a decent water supply-and so it was that Hopefield was founded on the eastern banks of the Sout River.
During the Second World War Saldanha was used as a base for the British Fleet. Security was tightened and residents had to carry permits. Big Catalina Flying boats were used to track German submarines. The Catalinas used Langebaan lagoon for loading of provisions and Donkergat for moorings. To observe the weather a meteorological station was erected and this led to the discovery that the air above Saldanha is remarkably free of air pockets. The problem of fresh water was finally solved in 1943 when a pipeline was laid from the Bergriver. The demand for whale oil during the Second World War let to the reopening of the whaling station at Donkergat in 1947. After a successful season the Salamander Bay station reopened as well. Big Companies were started and shares offered to the public. After 1967 whales became scarce and international competition was developing. The whaling stations ceased operations. The military took Donkergat over in 1942 and it then became a restricted area.
