The West Coast boasts many opportunities for adventure, and thanks to the Berg River it is also a water-sports hub.
In addition to canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, some of the other water sport activities on offer here include fishing, skiing, wind surfing, surfing at Dwarskersbos, paddle boating in the Port Owen Marina or sailing with Port Owen Sailing Charters.
A boat cruise up the river is a must-do experience while visiting Velddrif for a weekend and Bokkomlaan, the oldest road in the town that snakes up the edge of the Berg River. This is not only a good vantage point from which to watch rowers go by, but it’s also a great place to relax and watch the tide come in while sipping freshly roasted artisanal coffee. Or, one can take a seat on a jetty with a cocktail in hand.
One can also visit the eclectic shops dotted along this quaint dirt road. Bokkomlaan is named after the salted mullet strung in bunches and hung to dry like biltong. It is the signature local delicacy of this area.
Velddrif is also a foodie’s paradise!
Whether your inclination is to call for a hearty breakfast, wood-fired pizza, hamburgers, crispy fresh salads, artisanal baked treats and cakes, vegetarian dishes, traditional country fare or anything in between, this area offers it all from a wide variety of eateries to suit all tastes and budgets.
The restaurants in town are known for serving some of the freshest seafood delicacies, to be savoured while overlooking the beautiful Berg River with a chilled glass of wine or ice-cold cooldrink.
From eclectic and rustic to fine dining or takeaways, there truly is something for everyone here, served with typical West Coast hospitality.
The region also has many popular bird-watching sites in South Africa, with the tidal mudflats and salt marshes presenting more than 200 species.
This estuary is the third biggest in the country and is rated as one of the most important birding areas in the world as well as being a key breeding site for many species of fish.
Retail therapy is also an option in Velddrif, with many interesting local shops and gift stores offering a multitude of reasons to splash out and spend some money.
For more information on where to eat, sleep and play visit https://bergriviertourism.co.za/bergrivier/
