The timeless landscape of the West Coast is one of the most popular draws for tourists, especially over the spring period when the flowers start to bloom – usually between August and September.
There are over 4,000 flower species, of which 1,000 are indigenous to this region only. Some of the blooms you’re likely to see include aloes, daisies, lilies, and perennial herbs, and one of the best towns to experience this array of colours at, is Darling.
Although flowers are the main draw for tourism, many people visit outside of the flower season wonder what else there is to see. There are many picturesque towns situated along the West Coast, each with its own charm. The majority of them are coastal towns and are filled with historical tales, active marine life, and beautiful flora and fauna.
- Digging up the past at the West Coast Fossil Park
The West Coast Fossil Park offers visitors a fascinating look into what life was like 5.2 million years ago, when creatures such sabre-tooth cats, mega tooth sharks, short-necked giraffes, and even bears, wandered the plains and savannahs.
On-going digs by palaeontologists have revealed over 200 different species that once inhabited the area, and morphological studies (the wear and tear on the bones and teeth) have revealed more about the way animals moved, their social behaviours, their positional patterns and so forth. Isotope patterns can even be used to reconstruct the exact diet of each animal. The fossil park is a great family outing because of the variety of activities on-site and also because of the wonderful educational opportunities it presents.
- Step outside of time at Paternoster
The small fishing town of Paternoster offers visitors a chance to experience a charming, rural atmosphere, populated with friendly fisher folk. The white-washed fishing huts scattered about the beach are beautiful for photographs. Here you can experience deep-sea fishing, sea kayaking – with dolphins swimming beside you – and even crayfish trips can be arranged prior to your arrival.
Though the town is predominantly a fishing one, there are other activities available to visitors, such as enjoying a sunrise or a sunset horse ride on the beach. We also recommend visiting the pristine Tietiesbaai beach within the Cape Columbine Nature Reserve or perhaps going bird watching at one of the many cleverly hidden bird hides. There are also many Khoi-San caves with rock art paintings that are well-worth a visit.
- Exploring the lush valley of Citrusdal
Citrusdal is a lovely, lush area, surrounded by the Cederberg Mountains which have snow-capped peaks in winter. It is home to the largest fruit packing facility in South Africa and has over two centuries of experience in producing excellent wines. There are numerous fruit farms, rooibos growing areas, and even several beekeepers to be found here.
If you’re after adventure, enjoy the various hiking, mountain biking and 4×4 trails and don’t miss out on the skiing in winter, the picturesque golf course, or paragliding opportunities. Within the Olifant valley is a wonderful citrus farm with natural warm baths that you can soak in with no cell-phone distractions, due to the lack of signal in the valley.
Let us know what your favorite West Coast attraction is!
