Citrusdal, lying between Cape Town and Clanwilliam, is the gateway to the magnificent wilderness area of the Cederberg and within easy reach of the West Coast. Known throughout South Africa and the world for its thriving citrus industry, Citrusdal is set in a scenic, fertile valley, fed by the mighty Olifants River and guarded by the rugged Cederberg, Koue Bokkeveld and Swartberg Mountains.
Surrounded by its numerous orchards of citrus fruit, it is the ideal base from which to plan your stay in this popular area. From Citrusdal, you can travel north along the N7, on a beautiful, scenic drive, with citrus orchards and interesting farm stalls hugging the road. This route to Klawer is part of the Olifants River Wine Route, incorporating Vrendendal and Lutzville.
Or, driving north on the N7, to Clanwilliam or Algeria, you will find some excellent rock climbing, cycling or hiking in the magnificent Cederberg Wilderness Area with its amazing rock formations, fynbos, clear streams with rock pools and fly fishing.
Cyclists can also enjoy the Boschkloof Mountain Bike Trail near the town.
If you are interested in the cultural history of South Africa, the Cederberg Wilderness has over 130 rock art sites, and in Citrusdal itself there are two sites at the Baths, a hot springs resort in close to town. Wuppertal is a mission village lost in time, where shoes are still made by hand.
Experience amazing scenery by taking the 4×4 route from Citrusdal to Wuppertal (from the R303 south of Citrusdal, turn off at Op-Die-Berg towards the Katbakkies Pass and then left onto the Blinkberg Pass Road), or ride free on one of the many motor bike routes.
The superior citrus products and Golden Valley wines, made from grapes grown in the valley and on surrounding farms, has contributed to make Citrusdal known the world over. The oldest orange tree in South Africa is found on the farm “Heksrivier” in the Citrusdal valley. It is older than 160 years, still bears fruit and has been declared a national monument.
The Citrusdal Golf Course has the ideal setting and is known as one of the best short courses in the Western Cape.
Take the N7 North towards Malmesbury. Continue on the N7 for 175km over the beautiful Piekenierskloof Pass. Turn right from the N7 highway towards Citrusdal. An alternative route is to take the R303 from Ceres, through Prince Alfred’s Hamlet and Op Die Berg, over the Gydo Pass.
| More info on the West Coast area |
