August – September
WHERE Clanwilliam and the Cederberg is a playground of note; the town’s annual wildflower show in the old church is not to be missed (24 August – 2 September). HOTSPOT The wildflower garden at Ramskop Nature Reserve, overlooking Clanwilliam Dam, is a colourful cornocupia of blooms. Entry is R25 pp. Open until 4.30pm. 027-482-8000 BACK ROAD The rough track south from Wupperthal to Matjiesrivier Nature Reserve passes shepherds’ huts and rooibos tea plantations deep in the mountains, but you’ll need a highclearance vehicle (and a 4x4 after rain). Unless you have a permit from Algeria camp, you can’t enter the reserve. SPECIALS Blazes of rocket pincushions ( Leocospermum reflexum) on mountain hikes. LOCAL CURIOSITY The grave in a cave on Pakhuis Pass (R364) is the last resting place of C. Louis Leipold, renowned poet and cookbook author – an early proponent of ‘slow food’. SECRET SPOT The Biedouw Valley bursts into bloom as early as July (it’s on the road to Wupperthal after you turn off the R364). The Tra Tra River Valley south of Wupperthal is also a flower hotspot. EAT HERE Traveller’s Rest Farm Stall, just beyond Pakhuis Pass, is the spot for roosterkoek and traditional dishes. Open 9am to 6pm. It also issues permits for the Sevilla Rock Art Trail. 027-482-1824 STAY HERE Enjo Nature Farm has small cottages (from R520 for two) and camping (R80 pp) right on the river. 027-482-2869, soulcountry.info