Top Attractions

1. Theewater Sports Club

Founded from humble beginnings in 1979, Theewater Sports Club has become one of the largest, and most popular, water sports clubs in the Western Cape. Its unique location offers premium sailing conditions for enthusiasts against the dramatic backdrop of the Franschhoek Mountains. 

Experience a range of watersports and activities such as dinghy sailing, power boating, jet skiing, water skiing, wind and kite surfing, wakeboarding and freshwater angling. Those who enjoy moving at a slower pace can take a canoe, or try their luck at fishing. If you plan to spend all your time in the water, there is a campsite on the river banks so you can relax for a few days. Read more clubs in Villiersdorp here.

2. Hug an Alpaca

A farm with close to 50 Alpacas might not be the first thing you expect to find in a small town in the Overberg, but it is just the subtle nature of Villiersdorp that is full of surprises. Native to South America, these quirky cousins to the camel family were the second group of alpacas ever to arrive on South African shores in 2004. Take a scenic 10km drive out of town to Helderstoom Alpaca farm, where owners Alison and Chris are waiting to introduce you to their beloved herd. The animals also have one of the finest fleeces on the planet, with a diverse fibre of 22 colours and shades. Don’t miss seeing the spinning of the Alpaca wool and browsing the shop of beautifully made alpaca garments. Read about more things to do in Villiersdorp here.

3. Kelkiewyn Farm Stall

Sitting pretty on the banks of the Elands River, the town’s local farm stall and wine boutique provides the only tasting facility for the Villiersdorp Cellar, offering visitors the best selection of locally produced wines. Kelkiewyn is owned by Dutch food, wine and hospitality, specialist Harry van Kemp. Passionate about slow living, well-prepared food, wine and crafting the perfect potato chip, Harry has created an inviting restaurant with the right balance of casual and class.  A sophisticated and value-for-money menu serves anything from breakfast and pizza to burgers and blackboard specials. In winter grab a glass of Villiersdorp’s finest red and a seat by the roaring fire. Kelkiewyn is child-friendly. Find more places to eat in Villiersdorp here.

4. Tractor and Engine Museum

Welcome to Tractor Country! The Villiersdorp community take their tractors so seriously, that they have a museum dedicated to them. Run by the Veteran Tractor and Engine Club, the museum is a fascinating journey through various stages of farming machinery whether you are mechanically minded or not. It’s truly fascinating strolling around between the polished and primped tractors, imagining their former lives and proud owners.  A visit to the museum is a great ending to an afternoon of wine tasting at Kelkiewyn. Read more about arts & culture in Villiersdorp here.

5. Theewaterskloof Golf Club

There is nothing like a round of golf to get you into the holiday spirit. With spectacular views to accompany your game, Golfer’s Digest rates Theewater’s 9-hole course as one of the top courses in South Africa. If it’s been a while since your last round, the practice green and driving range provides a perfect opportunity to practice your swing. Golf carts are also available for hire. Get onto the R43 towards Caledon / Hermanus and after about 5 km you will find the entrance to the club on your right. Read more about golf in Villiersdorp here.

6. Aphrodisiac Shack Smokehouse

Set along the picturesque banks of the Theewaterskloof Dam, the Aphrodisiac Shack features world-renowned Charcutier Sean Hormann who smoked meat products and a variety of other gourmet goodies. Sean found his passion for the traditional French craft of charcuterie in the United Kingdom, where he worked as a fromager for many years. The smokehouse was built using traditional methods and over the years he has refined the smoking process and his understanding of the oven’s unique nuances. The smokehouse also offers picnic hampers with delicacies like smoked trout and apple-smoked free-range chicken breast among the goodies. For the little ones, Aphrodisiac Shack has a playground and jumping castle and offers the pure pleasure of wading in the shallows of the dam. You can also bring along your tackle and valid fishing license. Read more about places to eat in Villiersdorp here.

7. Painting Courses at the Elliott Gallery

After hosting nearly 20 years of acclaimed Painting Holidays in the Leisure Isles of Knysna, Dale and Janny Elliott started a new chapter by building their dream country retreat in Villiersdorp. Their creative haven consists of art studios, a gallery showing work inspired by nature and a framing room. The establishment of the Elliott Gallery is just another example of the town’s artistic appeal, and guests of all levels are invited to join one of the painting courses held at the teaching studio. Upstairs you can view a beautiful and comprehensive display of shells and find out the curious story of their collector. Read more about art galleries in Villiersdorp here.

8. Elandskloof Scenic Drive

The mind-blowing vistas at Elandskloof are a top pick for locals and the hidden jewel of Villiersdorp. The road connects the fertile Elandskloof fruit farms with the town. It offers breathtaking views of the northern vineyards and orchards, with the main farms being High Noon, Kaaimansgat and Elandsrivier. Driving through this part of Theewaterskloof is rewarding throughout the seasons. Take the Elandskloof turnoff just 2km outside Villiersdorp, follow it up the mountain and down into the valley to discover why residents have called it “Little Switzerland”. Read more about getting to Villiersdorp here.

9. Villiersdorp Winelands Mountain Bike Ride

Cycle on farm roads through vines and apple orchards, over river crossings and witness the abundance of bird life through this gorgeous trail that forms part of the Cape Epic. There is nothing like the wind on your face and getting your heart rate up on one of the most beautiful bike routes in the country. Stop for a dip next to a waterfall in the Kaaimansgat Valley. Watch out for birds like Cape francolin darting in and out of the bushes. At roughly 5km, the trail is suited for the novice mountain biker. You can get a map from the Villiersdorp Tourism Bureau on Union Street. Read more about mountain biking in Villiersdorp here.

10. Kroonland 4x4 Route

You will find the turnoff to the Kroonland 4x4 trails along the Elandskloof road. A truly exhilarating experience, the agility and power of being in a 4x4 will allow you to go deeper into fairytale lands you could only imagine from afar. The route is about 13 km long and can take up to 3 hours. There is a maximum of 20 vehicles per group. The owner of the Elandskloof Farm is a 4x4 enthusiast and his D4 Caterpillar made most of the mountain roads on the farm. Read more about outdoor adventures in Villiersdorp here.