A Fantastic Vacation Awaits in Citrusdal

At first glance Citrusdal, in the Western Cape Province of South Africa, might seem like an insignificant rural village, but on closer inspection visitors will find an endless number of adventures waiting to be experienced. As its name might suggest, Citrusdal is known for its colorful orchards and its fresh air that is filled with the fragrances of citrus fruits and the breathtaking sight of the Cederberg Mountains. Approximately two hours drive from Cape Town, Citrusdal is a destination that teems with natural splendor and many fantastic tourist attractions.

Located on the Olifants River, Citrusdal is the leader in the citrus fruit industry of South Africa, and is internationally known for its tasty and juicy fruit. Not many people know that they are able to escape to this destination that boasts many accommodation choices, including self-catering chalets, camping areas, bed and breakfast establishments and guesthouses. Here, just outside the bustle of Cape Town, visitors can find natural wonders, exciting leisure activities and noteworthy tourist attractions.

To start with, Citrusdal is home to one of the oldest fruit trees in South Africa, which has grown here for more than one hundred and sixty years. Sports enthusiasts will be happy to hear that Citrusdal has its own nine-hole golf course, and fresh water angling in the Olifants River is a favorite pass time for locals. Visitors who are not familiar with fishing regulations in South Africa should educate themselves on permitted species, as taking a Clanwilliam Sand Fish or Barnard’s Klipbarber from the water could land them in serious trouble. Other activities to look forward to are bird watching, hiking, mountain biking, quad trails, 4×4 trails, arts and crafts stores and paintball. Hiking routes such as the Boschkloof Hiking Trails, Cederberg Wilderness, Sneeuberg and Dwarsrivier are popular because of their magnificent fauna and flora, but trails such as the Sevilla Bushman Painting Trail offer visitors the opportunity to explore ancient rock paintings and drawings. Rock climbing is available at Treirjieskraal and Bobbejaankop, while mountain biking trails run from Citrusdal to the Cederberg Mountains. Wine tasting can be enjoyed at Goue Vallei Wines and Johann Van Zyl Wines, and cellar tours are available.

The Citrusdal Museum has a wonderful exhibit on the Khoisan heritage of the region and also depicts the tale of the pioneering days. Signal Canon is another noteworthy site to visit, as it is the original canon that was fired to signal that ships were approaching Table Bay, and the view is amazing. The Baths is a tranquil facility that has natural hot springs and spa baths to rejuvenate visitors and many still believe that the hot springs possess healing powers. From challenging 4×4 trails to areas of peace and calm, visitors will find it all in Citrusdal, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.