Uniondale is a quaint village on the R62 between Oudtshoorn and Port Elizabeth. It has easy access to Plettenberg Bay (85kms) on the Garden Route via the rugged, magnificent, gravel, Prince Albert Pass. It is also near the Langkloof, a major fruit growing area en-route to Port Elizabeth on the R62.
The farming in the area is mainly sheep, apple and seed farming. Uniondale was born in 1856 when the Dutch Reformed and Mission churches were erected. The early economy was based on cart building, furniture making and farming produce, which were sent into the interior and bartered for breeding and slaughter stock. During the 1880’s, ostrich farming was introduced and houses were built. A branch of the Standard Bank was opened in 1880.
Today, life goes on much as in the past. It is this laid back rural lifestyle in scenic surroundings that attracts visitors and residents. The Kamanassie and Kouga mountains are a backdrop to the green valley boasting incredible geology and prolific flora. The town looks after its historic buildings, seven of which are national monuments, giving it a vibe of yesteryear.
Uniondale’s watermill, with the largest wheel in South Africa, was built in 1854 and has recently been restored. It now houses an art gallery and the lovely “Watermeul” restaurant which serves gourmet food, a must for Uniondale visitors.
The town is a good place to stop on your journey, with restaurants, coffee shops, an antique shop and art gallery. Chat to the locals, take photographs or ride the 100km Karoo to Coast mountain bike race from Uniondale to Knysna through the Prince Alfred’s Pass, which is held annually in September. The regular fixture in the American Saddle Horse calendar, the Uniondale Agricultural Show is held in October.
For those who have some time, the local 9 hole golf course has a lovely setting.
