There’s no shortage of things to do and places to explore in the Berg River region and when it comes to choosing a campsite, there’s something for everyone. Over the last few weeks we’ve been setting up camp at some of Bergrivier Tourism’s recommended campsites and so far it’s true what they say: the West Coast’s Adventure Capital might just be even more beautiful this time of the year!
Bright, white beaches, fresh seafood and sunny skies by day, crisp cool air, delicious red wine and roosterkoek on the campfire by night…what’s not to love?
If you’re the kind of camper that won’t let a bit of rain and colder temperatures get in the way of your love for camping, the Cape West Coast here are 3 campsites to consider visiting for a West Coast Winter Adventure…
1. Kleine Paradys, Piketberg
5-star camping meets a wonderland of waterside adventure
Kleine Paradys is located 13km from Piketberg and is ideal for those looking for a campsite with enough on-site activities and facilities to enjoy for a whole weekend. Fishing, kayaking, farm walks, indoor and outdoor heated pools, a well-equipped farm shop and a Lapa, are just some of the things available for campers at Kleine Paradys.
During our recent visit, we were able to experience one of the most relaxing, private and peaceful camping weekends away.
Thanks to the spacious layout of the venue’s various campsites which are scattered along the river banks, as well as the proximity of the different camping areas in relation to its playground areas, we felt as though we had a piece of the Berg River all to ourselves and without any evidence of there being as much entertainment for kids as there is.
Speaking of which, the list of activities for kids is endless: putt-putt, waterslides, trampolines, farm animals, you name it. But if you prefer to spend time exploring nature, the campsite’s farm and natural surroundings offer adventures around every corner.
Each of the well-maintained campsites has its own neat and clean private bathroom and washup area – a touch of glamping if you want a break from communal facilities.
Bookings are done strictly by email only and require a thorough read-through of the establishment’s booking rules (located on their website) prior to enquiring: info@kleineparadys.co.za
2. Knor Varkie, Velddrif
A true West Coast experience
If you want a true West Coast experience with a focus on good fishing, good food and good old ‘local-is-lekker’ hospitality, Knor Varkie keeps it real. Located just outside Velddrif, its campsite’s rustic charm and unpretentious appeal make for easy, fuss-free camping where you can decide to arrive on a Friday after work, cast your line, light the fire and relax.
Arrive by car, or by boat – the camping area is located right on the banks of the Berg River and provides a slipway, as well as anchor pins for you to launch your boat – or beach it right in front of your tent! All 9 of its campsite are located within walking distance from the water’s edge.
As a fishing hot spot, popular fish to catch include Elf (Shad), Steenbras, Kabeljou, Leervis and Cob. For this, you’ll need a permit and your own fishing tackle.
We loved discovering and learning about the wide variety of birdlife here during a sunny morning walk to the other side of the river. Blue Crane, Herons, African Spoonbills, Pied Kingfisher and Malachite were just some.
Fibre-glass canoes are available for you to rent from Knor Varkie’s campsites. Alternatively, you can rent Go Camp’s Fluid Synergy kayaks: click here.
If you’re up for something more lively to stay warm, the venue’s restaurant & bar, The River Shack, brings Velddrif locals and out-of-towners together to enjoy live music, great food and gorgeous views of the Berg River. You can also order breakfast from the River Shack’s menu.
If you don’t get the chance to camp at Knor Varkie during your West Coast winter visit, day visitors are invited to come and enjoy its facilities too.
Knor Varkie is also pet-friendly for well-trained animals by prior arrangement.
Email charlotte@knorvarkie.co.za for enquiries and bookings.
Klein Tafelberg’s Mountain View Campsites
Hike. 4×4. Explore. Off-road trails galore!
It’s no secret that we’re huge fans of Klein Tafelberg (voted one of South Africa’s top 10 4×4 trails) and not just because of its epic 4×4 route.
Its newly launched hiking trail gives you the same amount of off-road thrill as its 4×4 trail and the more effort you put in, the better the reward.
Also read: Campsite Spotlight: Klein Tafelberg Adventure Centre
The same is true for Klein Tafelberg’s off-site camping spots, built for the serious campers willing to take on a bit of a challenging but fun drive with all their camping gear to a mountain top to set up camp.
The 3 mountain view campsites are ideal if you’re looking for something more scenic and private from your winter camping experience. Star-cluttered night skies and the views looking out over the Sandveld are perfect on a clear winter’s night, especially from a rooftop tent!
You’ll need to be fully self-sufficient with your own water and power – what you take up with you must come down. There is however a ‘bush loo’.
Need a rooftop tent? Why buy when you can RENT? Click here
Email: bookings@kleintafelberg.co.za
For more campsite recommendations from Bergrivier Tourism click here.