There is something about the West Coast...a kind of hospitality unique to the region, that makes this a definite place to put on your list to see. The people add a special charm to the beauty of the area, very down to earth, warm, polite and friendly. As an outsider one will quickly notice this, in the big cities people do not greet each other anymore and hurriedly rush about their daily activities, but in these small towns life is different.
The R27 from Cape Town will take you past towns such as Langebaan, Saldanha, Veldrif, Laaiplek, Port Owen and many more and one can take an interesting trip, stopping at all the towns along the way.
The Westcoast has definite contrasts in scenery, vast open tracts of dry land covered in small shrubs and the sea on the other side glistening in the sun. In the Spring you will see wild flowers in beautiful array all along the road as you drive. A cool swim is definitely a saving grace in the Summer as temperatures can reach high into the 40 degrees C.
One of the Locals, Tollie Bezuidenhout is the Owner of Tollie's River & Boat Cruises and he can take you on a cruise down the Berg River. This is a definite must do if you visit the Port Owen, Veldrift area.
Experience the river and its habitat from the point of view of Cormorants, Flamingos, Waders, and Pelicans. Just sit and enjoy the peace on the river as you take in the beautiful surroundings and fresh smelling air, the perfect way to end the day. The Boat is very sociable, with seats all around and one can sit and chat and enjoy the company.
Tollie will point out the places of interest and tell you a bit about the local area as you go along. He will take you to see Bokkomlaan, where one can see a West Coast speciality - dried fish (made from "Harders")hanging in the sun to dry.
Port Owen Marina and the beautiful homes stretched along its banks is something you will see too. So if you are planning a trip to the area, contact Tollie on +27 79 763 6966.
Other things to do in the area include a visit to the Salt Factory, The Fisheries Museum and the Laaiplek Harbour.
For years the locals have made their living from Fishing and all over you will see fishing boats along the beaches.
If you are looking for accommodation in the area, try The Riviera Hotel in Veldrift where Kiewet and staff will warmly welcome you or The Laaiplek Hotel where Annetjie and her staff will make you feel just as at home, you can email Annetjie at laaiplek@eigevis.com
The West Coast is definitely a place to visit, make sure it's on your list.
For customised tours of the region email us on info@travelsatleisure.com
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