Sandstone peaks twisted by the elements into strange formations, ancient San rock art, craggy mountains and colourful spring flowers make the desolate Cederberg an absolute must-see.
The peaks and valleys of the Cederberg extend roughly north-south for 100 kilometres, about two hours north of Cape Town. Today the peaks are a mecca for hikers and climbers, though for years the area was home to the nomadic San, South Africa’s indigenous people. Indeed, the Cederberg is home to some of the finest examples of San rock art in the country. The region is also famous for its plant life, which is predominantly mountain fynbos (fine bush), though it’s also home to the Aspalathus linearis plant, from which South Africa’s famous rooibos tea is made. It’s also in the Cederberg that you’ll find Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat, a study in luxury that blends effortlessly into its remote mountain setting. One of the finest resorts in the Western Cape, it’s reason alone to make the journey up from Cape Town.
To the west of the Cederberg is an untamed coastline of duned beaches and rocky promontories, resort towns, surf spots and the West Coast National Park, where bird-lovers flock. The coastal area is particularly spectacular in late winter and early spring, when the dunes are carpeted in a stupendous array of wildflowers.