Vredendal, Cape West Coast
As its name intended, the little town of Vredendal, which borders on the southern tip of Namaqualand, is named after a peace settlement that brought harmony between two sparring parties. Part of the original Vreedensdal farm, which dates back to 1748, the now modern town lies on the banks of the Olifants River and has become something of a hub for the Matzikama region, known for its contrasting sandy plains, rugged mountains and some of the most diverse examples of succulent plant species in the world.
Renowned for its intricate irrigation scheme, the Olifants River allows for extensive agriculture and viticulture in the area. The valley is thus green and fertile and lies surrounded by the majestic Gifberg, Maskam and Koebee peaks, creating a peaceful haven and magic setting for getting away from it all.
Vredendal is not only an ideal base from which to explore the Namaqualand, the Cape West Coast and the Cederberg Mountains, but it is also on the Olifants River wine route, which includes the large vineyards of Westcorp and Lutzville, a number of petite boutique cellars producing some up and coming wines and typical ‘Weskus’ (west coast) hospitality. This area has been recognised as one of the country’s ideal regions for wine production.
The Matzikama Eco-Park offers nature lovers some fantastic hiking trails, bird hides, botanical and community gardens, a bird aviary and an eco-centre overlooking the Gifberg Mountain. And the annual ‘Rittelfees’, which happens at the end of October, brings together eight towns from the district for music, arts and crafts and some of the country’s celebrities. Vredendal is possibly best known for its wild flowers in spring when the mountains metamorphose into a tapestry of exquisite colour - a tribute to the Matzikama’s rich diversity of succulent plant species and a joy to behold.
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Featured Attractions in (or near) Vredendal

Cape Flower Route
The southern section of the famous Cape Flower Route falls within the Olifants River Valley. Following good rains, Lutzville, Vredendal, Vanrhynsdorp, Klawer and Clanwilliam are all renowned for the extravagance of their wild flowers in August and September after the right amount of rainfall.

Olifants River Valley Wine Route
The Olifants River wine route starts at Citrusdal, 180 km outside of Cape Town and meanders along the river for 120 km until it reaches Lutzville and the country’s most westerly vineyards. This area around Lutzville is regarded as one of the most ideal wine growing areas due to its mild climate, misty ... more information

Verlorenvlei
Verlorenvlei is a long estuary stretching between the villages of Elands Bay and Redelinghuys, some 25 kilometres south of Lambert’s Bay. It is not only one of the largest lakes but one of the few coastal freshwater lakes that is at once one of the most important estuarine systems in the Western Cape ... more information

West Coast National Park
Just inland from the secluded harbour of Saldanha Bay one finds the azure waters of the Langebaan Lagoon, focal point of the West Coast National Park. Thousands of seabirds roost on sheltered islands, pristine golden beaches stretch endlessly into the early morning mist and brooding salt ... more information
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Events and/or Festivals in Vredendal
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Also see Things To Do in Cape West Coast or check out Things To Do in Western Cape to view activities by category, including watersports, sightseeing activities, arts & crafts and many, many more.








