Porterville, on the slopes of the scenic Olifants River Mountains, is an historic Swartland town, proclaimed in 1863. This history is still evident in the existing houses that date back to this era. However, the settlers were not the first to discover this beautiful, fertile part of South Africa. The original San people have left many examples of their rock art in the Winterhoek and Beaverlac Wilderness areas and on private farms – the most outstanding of which is a rock art painting of a sailing ship.
Today Porterville has much to offer the visitor. It has developed as a world famous spot for paragliding and hangliding, due to the powerful thermals that develop in summer, providing ideal flying conditions. The launching spot is off the Dasklip Pass on the way to the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness. Just driving up the pass is an experience, with beautiful views and some narrow spots to negotiate.The SA Paragliding Winelands Open are held here in December and the pass can get quite busy during this time.
Porterville is also known for the rare Disa flower, and is one of the few places the Disa can be found growing naturally in fields. The rarest of these is the sulphur-yellow Disa only found in one small colony in Porterville.
Close to Porterville are two pristine natural areas. The Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area, with its dramatic sandstone rock formations, fauna, flora and mountain rock pools, hiking and biking trails and …
… the Beaverlac Nature Reserve, a national heritage site, set in pristine fynbos in the Olifants River Mountains offering waterfalls and exquisite rock pools, bird life and rock formations, relaxation or activities like hiking and mountain biking.
The Porterville Wine Cellar, found on the main road, offers wine tasting in a beautiful tasting room particularly suitable for large groups. The unique wines and warm relaxed atmosphere, turns a simple wine-tasting into a truly memorable occasion. 022-931-2170. You can also take the Swartland Wine Route, if you are a wine lover.
There is a nine-hole golf course on Oliver Street, which is perfect for beginners. Saturday mornings are quiet and allow you the time you need when learning. +27 (0) 22 931-8007, +27 (0) 22 931-2017.
If you just want to relax in town, try the coffee shops and restaurants or visit the Jan Danckaert Museum with a permanent exhibition of rock art and local settler artefacts Corner Mark & Piet Retief Streets: Tel: 022 931 3528: Viewing times: Weekdays: 09h00 – 16h00: Saturday: 09h00 – 13h00: (Closed on Sundays and public holidays)
Although the summers are hot and dry, winters are quite severe, with snow often covering the mountain peaks.
Situated 140km north of Cape Town, drive on the N7 to Picketberg and turn right onto the R44 to Porterville which is 26km from the N7 highway. Porterville can also be accessed via the R44 from Paarl or Wellington.
| More info on the Swartland area |
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