Friemersheim DIY Walk

About Friemersheim DIY Walk

Right on the doorstep of the vast variety of accommodation on the Garden Route, there are fantastic things to do and see. These attractions and activities range from restaurants on the beachfront to hikes through the mountains and forests. And the Friemersheim DIY Walk is one of the fun stops that is a must for families visiting this part of South Africa.

Friemersheim was a mission station that was established in 1870. For many years afterwards, it served no real purpose; loved only for its pretty quaintness. Today, the village is perched on a circular route through the countryside of the Garden Route (between George and Mossel Bay).

The DIY walk includes a visit to a lavender nursery (home to 10 different varieties of lavender), and a refreshing cup of tea can be served in Hester Uithaler’s garden in the heart of the historic village. Book a day in advance if you want to experience “a taste of Friemersheim” - homemade ginger beer with a distinct bite, traditional South African koeksisters that have been infused subtly with lavender, real Afrikaans-style melktert, and a “bobotie bondeltjie”. This is served at the Shweshwe Stop shop, along with beautiful African-style textiles and the products made from these (including clothing and accessories). The highlight of these products is the iconic PROEbag, which is a non-electric slow-cooker that is perfect for local communities that don’t always have access to electricity. But, it’s also a great gift or item for your own kitchen.

Of course, the Fragrance Route (on which the DIY walk is perched) is home to a number of other attractions too, which can be visited by appointment throughout the year. Enjoy the rich flavours of a hot cuppa from the coffee roastery; visit an export protea farm, where these exquisite flowers are celebrated for their unique beauty and variety; explore a private game farm (showcasing some of the region’s fauna and flora); and dine at an upmarket restaurant for a bit of a culinary spoil. The Kobus Halliday Car Museum has one of the largest collections of classic cars in South Africa, which is currently at 104. This is awesome for the whole family to visit, and some of the cars can be hired for special events.

Pop in at the Great Brak River Museum on the way to learn more about the Friemersheim church and the Volkwyn chair. There are also two free slideshows that will tell you more about the history of truly South African shweshwe and of the amazing PROEbag.