|
Province: Western Cape
Region: Klein Karoo ( Little karoo)
Town: Calitzdorp
Calitzdorp, overlooking a valley that spills like a Horn of Plenty from
the Swartberg foothills, is the fruit-bowl of Kannaland and source of
South Africa's finest port wines. If the Klein Karoo or Kannaland of
old is still alive, then its spirit is here, lingering perhaps in some
vista of loft-doored cottages up to their cheeks in orchard bloom. For
nowhere is the authentic character of a Klein Karoo community and the
unique architecture of the region better preserved. In the spectacular
mountains that shelter Calitzdorp on three sides, Nature too, seems
unspoiled by the twentieth century. Awaiting the ecology-minded explorer
is a wealth of flora, fauna and geological fascination. No wonder that
so many visitors stay longer than they intended, soaking up the region's
beauty.
The fertile valley was originally inhabited by San and Khoi people,
who left numerous rock-paintings. Buffelsvlei, the quitrent farm on
which Calitzdorp now stands, was granted in 1831 to JJ and MC Calitz.
Land was donated for a church in 1853 and four years later the foundation-stone
was laid and a church school established. Richard van Rheenen Barry
was the first pastor and served the community for 40 years. In 1910
it was decided to build a new church as the congregation exceeded 4000
people in number. 1912 Was a very important year — the new church and
a new school building were completed. Building to the Standard Bank
and the Nelsrivier dam also commenced. Subsequent drought, the Great
Flu epidemic and the collapse of the ostrich feather market, were a
setback to early development. However, recovery followed with the opening
of the railway line (1924), electrification (1937) and the construction
of a cement road from Oudtshoorn (1946-1950). Today Calitzdorp still
fits the discription given by a visitor in 1857 — "...this romantic
and beautiful spot..."
ACTIVITIES
View Applique Tapestries at Dutch Reform Church Hall
Birdwatching brochure at info
Monthly Calitzdorp Friendship Assoc. get together
Calitzdorp on Foot brochure at info
Visit Calitzdorp Spa
Bi-monthly Environmental Movie Evenings
Fishing for Yellowfish at Calitzdorp Dam
Hiking Trails at Gamkasberg Nature Reserve
Museum
Monthly Photo Group get together
Scenic Drives brochure at info
Wine tasting at the local cellars
Monthly Wine Tasting Evenings
4X4 Route at Gamkasberg Nature Reserve
4x4 Route at Kraaldoorns
4x4 Route at Bôjaankop,Matjiesvlei
|
|
|
2010 Accommodation bookings and enquiries
|
|
