Piketberg, Swartland

The small, farming town of Piketberg lies at the foot of the Piketberg Mountain range, surrounded by fields of wheat that change colour with the seasons - from reddish brown to golden yellow in summer, and green in winter; vineyards, fruit farms and beautiful examples of indigenous fynbos.

Touted as the next ‘boom town’ in the Swartland, because of its proximity to Cape Town, Piketberg is just over an hour’s drive from the Mother City, and only 30 minutes from the Cape West Coast. Piketberg is an historic town, established in 1836, when the farm Grotefontein was given to the church council. The old town, now a series of beautifully restored cottages, grew up around the church, which still stands - an imposing neo-gothic style cathedral with beautiful window patterns, plastered panels and interesting towers.

The uniqueness of Piketberg lies in its relationship to its mountain range, which stands alone, an island bordered by only three towns - Aurora to the west, Redelinghuys to the north and Piketberg on its eastern slopes - contributing to a peaceful atmosphere for those hankering after a complete de-stress.

A trip up the Versveld pass to the top of the mountain takes you through acres of apple, pear, peach and orange tree orchards; the scent of wild rosemary hanging in the air. From the summit, after taking a turn at Langeberg road, there is viewing point at a pine tree (let’s hope there is only one up there) from which, on a clear day, you can see Table Mountain.