Select a category
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 diverse range of water activities from dinghy sailing, power boating, jet skiing, water skiing, wind and kite surfing, wakeboarding and fresh water angling. Those who enjoy moving at a slower pace can take a canoe, or try their luck at fishing. If you’re planning to spend all your time in the water, there is also a level campsite right on the river banks so you can park off for a few days without having to leave. Local Clubs in Villiersdorp
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 from the camel family were the second group of alpacas ever to arrive on South Africa shores in 2004. Take a scenic 10 km 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 happen to have one of the finest fleeces on the planet, with a diverse fiber of 22 colours and shades. Don’t miss seeing the spinning of the wool and browsing the shop of beautifully made alpaca fiber garments that are made to be heirloom pieces. Things To Do in Villiersdorp
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 local wines. Kelkiewyn has recently been taken over by and revamped 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 managed to transform this iconic town establishment into an inviting restaurant with the right balance of casual and class. A sophisticated and value for money menu serves anything from Angelfish and burre blance to the specialty Slowline burger. In winter grab a glass of Villiersdorp’s finest red and a seat by the roaring fire. Places To Eat in Villiersdorp
4. Tractor and Engine Museum
Welcome to tractor country! The inhabitants of Villiersdorp take their tractors seriously, they have a whole museum lined with beautiful vintage models of all shapes, colours and ages. 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. You don’t even have to drive anywhere, just ask the front of house at Kelkiewyn for the keys! Arts & Culture in Villiersdorp
5. Theewaterskloof Golf Club
There’s 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 one of the top courses in South Africa. If it’s been a while since your last round, the practice green and driving range provide 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. Golf in Villiersdorp
6. Aphrodisiac Shack Smokehouse
Set along the picturesque banks of the Theewaterskloof Dam, the Aphrodisiac Shack features a world-renowned Charcuterie that crafts hot and cold smoked meat products and a variety of other gourmet goodies. Sean found his passion for the art of smoking while working as a cheese maker in the UK for many years. The smokehouse was built using traditional methods and great time and effort has been put into refining the process of smoking and understanding the oven’s unique nuances. Spend an afternoon on the banks of the dam with a scrumptious assortment of deli delights including smoked trout or apple-smoked free-range chicken breast. They also offer picnic hampers filled with fine food to be enjoyed under the trees and on the water's edge. For the kids there is the playground and jumping castle and the pure pleasure of wading in the shallows of the dam. You can also bring along your own tackle and valid fishing license. Places To Eat in Villiersdorp
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 decided to forge a new chapter in their lives 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 take part in 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. Art Galleries in Villiersdorp
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 breath-taking views of the northerly surrounding vineyards and orchards, with the main farms being High Noon, Kaaimansgat and Elandsrivier. From winters white snow and the golden crisp of autumn, to summer sunshine and the abundance of fruit and blossoms in spring, the drive is rewarding in all seasons. Take the Elandskloof turnoff just 2km outside Villiersdorp, follow it up the mountain and down the valley and you’ll discover why residents have called it ‘little Switzerland'. Getting to Villiersdorp
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’s nothing like the wind on your face and getting your heart rate up in one of the most beautiful bike routes in the country. During your ride you can stop for a dip next to a waterfall in the Kaaimansgat Valley. Watch out for the Cape Francolin often seen darting in and out of the bushes. At roughly 5km, the trail is suited for the novice mountain biker. You can obtain a map from the Tourism office on Union Street. Mountain Biking in Villiersdorp
10. Kroonland 4x4 Route
You’ll 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 the fairytale lands that you can only imagine looking at 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. Outdoor Adventures in Villiersdorp
