Citrusdal
Description
As the “Gateway to the Cederbergâ€, the dynamic rural village of Citrusdal is nestled among fragrant citrus orchards and fields of wild flowers. Less than 2 hours from Cape Town, it offers a unique setting full of natural splendour, history, waterways, and adventurous mountain trails. Feel free to browse through our accommodations and discover true country hospitality.
Located in the Olifants River Valley, between the Koue Bokkeveld and Swartberg Mountains, Citrusdal is surrounded by mesmerising scenery. The rich, fertile soil has made Cirtusdal synonymous with its superior quality citrus produce. Farmers also grow vegetables and rooibos tea, make honey, keep cattle and sheep, and produce their own wine from locally grown grapes. Be sure to get to the Hexrivier farm to visit South Africa’s oldest orange tree. At over 250 years old it is a national monument. Citrusdal is equally famous for its remarkable sandstone and shale rock formations. The area was home to the early San and Khoi people and their legacy of rock art can be seen in many sites surrounding the town.
The rugged mountain terrain offers moments of both serene solitude and extreme exhilaration. It is popular with hikers, rock climbers, and mountain bikers. There are also several exciting 4x4 routes around Citrusdal’s mountain farms. Mountain bikers can get their adrenaline kick on the Boschkloof MTB trail while mountaineers will enjoy expeditions to the Wolfberg Arch and Cracks, the Maltese Cross, Tafelberg, and Sneeuberg. Less fit adventurers will enjoy Maalgat pool, Stadstal caves, and shorter walks and hikes around the Cederberg Winery. The Cederberg Observatory also offers amazing hiking opportunities, but its main feature is the observatory, complete with a 16 inch telescope that offers the most magnificent views into the starry sky. For a day of family fun and adventure, try the nearby Ceres Zip Line Tours. It is the longest zip line tour in Africa with 8 slides that cover a distance of 1,4km.
Citrusdal is a haven for recreational sports like golf and fishing. Situated on the banks of the Olifants River with views of the majestic Cederberg Mountains, Citrusdal Golf Club is one of the best 9-hole courses in the Western Cape. The Olifants River has the richest endemic fish population in the country and provides fantastic freshwater angling. Species such as Clanwilliam Yellow Fish, the "Rooivlerkie", Clanwilliam Sand Fish, and Barnard's "Klipbaber" are not found anywhere else in the world.
If you prefer to take it slow, there are a number of museums and historical sites to visit, including the Citrusdal Museum with exhibitions of early pioneering days and Khoisan heritage, and the original Signal Canon that signaled the arrival of ships in Table Bay. A variety of scenic drives meander along the Koue Bokkeveld and Swartberg mountain passes, between vineyards, orchards, and fields. During August and September, the Namaqualand daisies are in full bloom and blaze a colourful trail along the route. Complete your visit with a trip to The Baths, a natural hot water spring near town.
Browse our extensive list of excellent Citrusdal accommodation.
