DAY 1
Leaving Cape Town via the N2 to Gordon’s Bay, the scenic R44 (Clarence Drive) takes you onto the Whale Coast ™ Route and through the internationally acclaimed pristine area of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve to the village of Rooiels. One of the finest coastal drives in the world, this road hugs the awesome Kogelberg Mountains and offers many rest points to enjoy whale watching and photo opportunities. Enjoy glorious sunsets at Rooiels and Pringle Bay, when looking across False Bay, you can see all the way to Cape Point on a fine day. Continue to Betty’s Bay, home to one of only two mainland African Penguin Colonies at Stony Point, nesting alongside the ruins of the old whaling station. The Harold Porter Botanical Garden showcases a variety of indigenous coastal flora. Local tour guides are available to share the secrets of this village, nestling in the heart of the Biosphere.
The journey continues onto Kleinmond with its world-renowned golf courses, interesting harbour area and a multitude of scenic hiking opportunities.
Alternative option: A different starting point for your journey through the Overberg is via the N2 at Sir Lowry’s Pass, from Cape Town and into the Elgin Valley at Grabouw. “Must see” visits include apple farms – pick your own, wine tasting, a cut flower farm or, for the more adventurous, enjoy the outdoor activities. Stop at one of the farm stalls for many surprises and delicious goodies. Set off on the R321 via Viljoen’s Pass to Villiersdorp for watersport opportunities on the Theewaterskloof Dam. A town with strong artist influence –explores the art galleries or tastes some locally produced wine. Rejoin the N2 to explore fascinating wine farms surrounding the village of Botrivier.
On leaving, take the R45, back to the N2. After about 12 km, head towards Greyton and Genadendal on the R406. A cool, leafy, oak tree lined main road, often with horse riders enjoying an outing, welcomes you to the village. Stop in at one of the many wonderful shops and restaurants. Hike in the Greyton Nature Reserve or potter around the village on a rented bicycle.
Day 2
Taking the R43 will bring the traveller to the famous Hermanus, boasting the best land based whale watching (June – Nov) in the world. Home to the world’s only whale crier, this metropolitan town offers an abundance of shopping, wining and dining opportunities. Explore the Hemel & Aarde Valley’s many excellent wine farms.
Follow the R43 to the picturesque village of Stanford – an ideal base from which to explore the Whale Coast™. Enjoy the abundance of bird watching opportunities as well as many activities linked to the Klein River. The historic village will sooth even the most jaded soul. On to the excitement of Great White Shark country – Gansbaai – Coast of Contrasts. Experience the adrenaline rush of shark cage diving or further your whale watching itinerary by boat. Explore the Strandveld Museum in Franskraal or visit Danger Point Lighthouse, immortalising the tragic Birkenhead shipwreck – “Women and Child First”
Alternative Option: Travel from Greyton onto Genadendal. Appreciate the richness of the culture and deeply historical ambiance of Genadendal. Visit the Khoi pottery, the Moravian church and museum. Buy some freshly baked bread at the local bakery.
Return to the N2 via the R406 and continue to Caledon. Relax at the spa or try your luck ad the adjoining Casino. Farms in the area offer variety of activities including tours of a working farm and trout fishing. Visit the historical Victorian House at Caledon Museum
Day 3
Back track for a few kilometres to Stanford where you will take the R326 onto the R316 which will take you onto the Tip of Africa Route. Travel with the R316 to Bredasdorp. Discover the fascinating history of our coast at the Shipwreck Museum, visit a candle making factory and the Heuningberg Nature Reserve. Travel onto Elim. A gravel road just outside of Bredasdorp will take the traveller the 35km stretch to Elim. Experience the rich, spiritual culture of this southernmost Moravian Mission station, explore the history and interact with the residents.
Day 4
Take the R319 to Struisbaai, L’Agulhas and Arniston.
Welcome to Struisbaai, 14km of endless, pristine beach. An excellent stop for souvenirs at the town’s shell & curio shops. Enjoy fresh fish & chips at the working harbour. On to the Southernmost Tip of Africa, L’Agulhas, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet.
Stop to relax and absorb the enormity of this unique position in the world. Many visitors claim it to be a deeply spiritual and humbling experience. Climb the steps to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy a breathtaking vista of the area.
After returning via the R319 and Struisbaai, a gravel road approximately 16km out, connects to the R316 to Arniston/Waenhuiskrans. There is an alternative tarred road if one journeys back to Bredasdorp and the R316. In the idyllic, picturesque village of Arniston, take time to visit the vast Waenhuiskrans Cave at low tide and tour Kassiesbaai Fishing Village, with a local guide. Treat yourself for a traditional lunch in this fishing community.
Day 5
Travel back to Bredasdorp and take the R319 to the N2 and onto the Mountain Treasure Route to Swellendam, Suurbraak and Barrydale.
Continue your journey through the Overberg on the N2 to Swellendam. This remarkable town is an historical mecca. Visit the Drostdy Museum to gain an insight into the early history of our country. Stop in at a specialty berry farm, famous for the Youngberry liqueur it produces. In season you can pick and indulge in your own berries.
Leave the N2 onto the R324 to visit the community of Suurbraak. This small village, with its hidden delights, epitomizes the warmth of the people of the Overberg. Visit the workshop where renowned chairs are handcrafted. Take a trip on a donkey-cart to get the most of this gentle town. Leave this beautiful village and travel over the magnificent Tradouw Pass to Barrydale. This area offers high quality wines for tasting and buying. You have reached to furthermost border of the Overberg, but you are welcome to turn back and start again….