Olifants River Valley

Western Cape Tourist AttractionsThe Olifants River Valley

The Olifant's River meanders through the valley bringing life to the surrounding area.

Without the water this beautiful world of green, the heavy fragrance of the citrus groves that greet you as you drive along, the proud farming community with the renowned Groen Vallei wines would cease to exist. There are many beautiful villages hidden away, that offer warm hospitality to visitors. You can travel around the region for days and days and never get bored.

The majestic Cederberg mountain range towers over Citrusdal; the hub of the citrus growing industry in South Africa. Only two hours drive from Cape Town, this town seems worlds apart with its old-world charm and values.

Citrusdal is unique in that it is surrounded by mountains; the Koue Bokkeveld, Swartberg and Cederberg form a ring around the town with its far stretching orchards that become a wonder world when the orange trees are heavily laden with ripe oranges (also see Cederberg Attractions).

Driving along the farm roads in the Olifants River Valley at this time of year is a surreal experience, no matter where you look, you are surrounded by the heavy smell and the bright orange that make the trees look like they are hung with Christmas decorations. The valley produce high-quality honey, rooibos tea and excellent wines, but the oranges are the real treat. By the time you get to your destination at the Hot Springs Resort you are enchanted and ready to forget about work, stress and city life.