Day 1: Nieuwoudtville
Our Letsatsi Lodge is a mere 300km drive from Cape Town and is the perfect spot to check in while in Namaqualand for flower viewing this September. After a delicious breakfast buffet at the Red Ox Restaurant, take a 50km drive over the awe-inspiring Van Rhyns Pass to visit Nieuwoudtville. Also known as the “bulb flower capital of the world”, the town is surrounded by flower reserves and farms that boast breath-taking floral carpets mid-September. The Hantam Botanical Garden has 1350 plant species, while the Quiver Tree Forest has trees up to 400 years old. You can visit the local tourism office situated in the NG Church Hall (027 218 1336) for directions to the farms with the best views at the time you are in the area. Most roads are accessible in a sedan and will ensure an unforgettable experience.
http://www.nieuwoudtville.com/
Day 2: Coastal Wine Route
From Vanrhynsdorp, you can take a stunning circular route comprising 180km of driving to the coast and back. This route includes beautiful scenery and a wine cellar on the way. From Vanrhynsdorp, take the N7 to Klawer, where you can make your first stop at the Klawer Wine Cellar. From there, follow the road to Vredendal, famous for its flowers and wine. Be sure to visit the well-known Namaqua Winery for a tasting. Afterwards, continue to the Lutzville Winery and then the grand finale – Strandfontein and Doringbaai. Get your camera ready, as these coastal towns boast rich floral carpets mid-September. Take a stroll on the white sandy beaches just before sunset and return to Letsatsi Lodge. This complete trip travels through the beautiful Olifantsrivier Valley, known for its wine, fruit and farming communities.
Day 3: Clanwilliam area
An excellent flower experience awaits in Clanwilliam, 80km from Vanrhynsdorp on the N7. Ramskop Wildflower Reserve, just outside of town, hosts an array of indigenous flower species. The reserve is always a visual treat this time of year. Here you can take hiking trails that lead to the Clanwilliam Dam Wall. Pack a few snacks and enjoy the beauty of the mountains, the dam and town itself. Next, embark on a 140km round trip to Wupperthal and the Biedouw Valley. The flower carpets promise to amaze. Wupperthal is an experience in itself – a small village lost in time. You can wander the streets and enjoy something to eat at the local shop before driving over the Pakhuis Pass. Here you will see the Biedouw Valley in all its glory. If you are interested in Bushmen rock art, book a guided tour with the Clanwilliam Living Landscape Project.
Special Offer: Night before or night after – 30% discount offer
N.C. Famous has a great offer, valid at all our lodges. You and your loved ones can receive 30% discount on accommodation at any of our lodges on the night before, or the night after your stay at any of the South African National Parks. This deal is only valid with proof of your stay at any SANParks reserve. Simply present the proof when you check in and we will ensure that you receive the discount when you depart. Make use of this offer today.
http://www.ncfamouslodges.co.za/
More News: Succulent flowers at Molopo Lodge
Spring has arrived early at our Molopo Lodge. Situated in the heart of the Kalahari, the succulents have started to bloom in all their glory. The pictures below show some of the Aloe vera plants that can be seen at Molopo Lodge. On the left is a Barbados Aloe, used for first aid – this medicinal Aloe is also used for skincare, relief from heartburn and may even have the potential to fight breast cancer. The plant on the right is the Aloe hereroensis.
