Mountain and Meadows Route

Mountain and Meadows Route

Based on the Overberg Tourism map, the Mountain and Meadows Route starts in Villiersdorp, the assumption being that you have already done the Green Mountain Eco Route.

Take the R43 from Villiersdorp back to the N2, direction Caledon. After a short distance, take the R406 towards Genadendal and Greyton. Genadendal is a little mission village just outside the beautiful town of Greyton where you can visit the Moravian church and museum and Khoi pottery. Make sure you arrive with enough time to buy a loaf of freshly baked bread at the local bakery and visit the water mill. Greyton is one of the most beautiful little towns in the Western Cape and also one of the best kept secrets. It lies tucked away from major routes and perhaps this has ensured that its oak-lined main street remains the territory of bicycles and horse back riders, rather than heavy industry trucks and vehicles en route somewhere.

Greyton is filled with little restaurants, coffee shops and beautifully restored cottages – great to take in on the back of a hired bicycle. It also borders on the Greyton Nature Reserve, which offers a number of hiking possibilities, including the Greyton to McGregor hike. You could easily spend days here, but lunch will do. Don't miss the opportunity to sample one of Von Geusau's chocolates, as the little factory is based here in Greyton.

Take the R406 to Caledon and visit the spa, which by all accounts is a wonderful outing and a relaxing treat. There are loads of farms in the area, many of them offering a variety of activities and tours, including the opportunity to catch trout.

Press on from Caledon on the N2 to Riviersonderend, passing numerous wheat fields en route where you might spot the endangered Blue Crane, South Africa's national bird. Riviersonderend has a wonderful hike on the Kleinbergie hiking trail with incredible views over town.