Citrusdal is a town of 5,000 people in the Olifants River Valley in the Western Cape province of South Africa. It is situated at the base of the Cederberg mountains about 160 kilometers north of Cape Town. Agriculture in the area is dominated by citrus fruit farming, hence the town’s name. The Cederberg Wilderness Area, which stretches through Citrusdal, was proclaimed a wilderness area in 1973. The Cederberg is renowned for its spectacular landscapes and rock formations, as well as the increasingly rare Clanwilliam cedar tree. There are many restaurants around to suit every visitor’s taste and budget. Accommodation is also abundant with self-catering units and bed and breakfasts available. Citrusdal has a thriving business community and provides a wide range of goods and services to its residents as well as surrounding communities. Check out or list of Places to Visit in Citrusdal.
Citrus fruit laid to dry.
1. The Baths Natural Hot Springs
Picture: Facebook / The Baths, Citrusdal
The Baths is a hot spring resort nestled on a citrus farm near Citrusdal, Western Cape. There are both cold and hot pools, with the waters reaching 43˚C at the source. Other features include mountain rock pools, spa baths, a tennis court, trampoline, pool table, and kiddies’ playground. MacGregor’s Restaurant has an a la carte menu and the shop sells all the basics for self-catering. Accommodation is available in chalets, flats, and caravan and camping sites.
2. Middelberg Pass
Picture: Facebook / Mountain Passes South Africa
The Middelberg Pass is a real classic offering exquisite views and rugged, mountainous terrain on a mix of gravel and tar with hairpin bends and some very steep drop-offs. It traverses the Middelberg mountain range between the Koue Bokkeveld and Citrusdal. It is suitable for all vehicles and, together with the Buffelshoek pass which precedes it from the south and the Elandskloof Pass which follows it in the north, this trio of passes is virtually one long pass.
The bougainvillea-braided bridge makes for a beautiful entrance to the town. Photo by Melanie van Zyl.
3. Waterfall Farm Citrusdal
Picture: Facebook / Waterfall Farm Citrusdal
Located just 9km from Citrusdal, Waterfall Farm offers privacy and the stillness of nature. Set on 65 hectares of natural wilderness, this historic land was once home to the Koi and San tribes. Visitors can enjoy impressive rock formations and feel the ancient energy of the area. The farm features well-equipped cottages, a communal lounge and braai area, making it perfect for retreats and events. Nearby attractions include the Natural Spring Fountain and Boschkloof 4WD-trail.
4. Cederberg Wilderness Area
The Cederberg Wilderness Area is renowned for its spectacular landscapes and rock formations. The mountain range is named after the endangered Clanwilliam cedar tree. The area is known for dramatic rock formations and San rock art.
5. Citrusdal Museum
The Citrusdal Museum is housed in a former old stone church. Here you will discover more about the first colonists and San inhabitants in the area. The fascinating tools and utensils used by the Khoisan are incredible; it’s hard to imagine how these items were crafted and used so effectively. Alongside the museum, you will find the historical Sandveldhuisie, which is now a tourism bureau giving information on the Wilderness area in Cederberg and is also a great little coffee shop.
6. Salome’s Grapevine
Picture: Facebook / Salome’s Grapevine
Salome’s Grapevine is a family-friendly restaurant with a small bakery, deli, and gift shop in a beautiful location. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views, very good coffee, and freshly prepared, healthy, hearty food. The garden setup is calming and therapeutic. The food is fresh and delicious, with excellent service. The lush garden, cozy fireplace for winter days, and warm welcome of good staff make this an exceptional experience. Try the berry blizz if you are all coffeed out. Great salads are served here as well.
7. Carmien Bergendal Rooibos Farm
Take a rooibos tea tour on the Carmien Bergendal Rooibos Farm for a greater appreciation of the journey from green bush to a steaming cup. It includes tastings of their tea range and information on how tea is graded so it can be traced back to the organic farm on which it grew.
One of the many activities on offer in the Citrusdal area.
8. Hebron Guest House and Restaurant
Hebron Guest House is a colorful guest house off the N7 about two kilometers before the turn-off to Citrusdal. Guest rooms overlook the Olifants River Valley, and an infinity pool sits beside the lush vegetable garden. The Blomhuis (a self-catering eco-cottage) is available for families and has sunset views over a field of wax flowers. Breakfast on the old solar panel tables outside is delectable, and despite being close to the highway, it’s surprisingly quiet.
Nothing is discarded at the Sandveldhuisie.
9. The Old Village on Modderfontein Farm
Picture: Facebook / The Old Village on Modderfontein Farm
The Old Village on Modderfontein Farm originally housed Citrusdal’s first post office and trading store. Its restaurant and country pub, overlooking orchards in the Olifants River Valley, serves affordable lunch specials, such as BLT with chips, and on Sundays, there’s a lunch buffet to enjoy before heading home to face the working week.
10. Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort
Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort has everything you’ll expect from a 4-star attraction, including the famous Kloof Restaurant, indoor heated pool, and health & wellness center. Accommodation includes 22 hotel rooms and self-catering chalets. The resort is known for its zip lines and scenic mountain hiking trails.
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