Swartberg Circle Route
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Surval Boutique Olive Estate

Dec 23, 2019

OUDTSHOORN ACTIVITIES

SURVAL BOUTIQUE OLIVE ESTATE

Overview

Welcome to your luxury Klein Karoo Retreat
Kick off your shoes and bask in the luxurious ease of Surval. A unique atmosphere of intimate elegance, yet comfortable luxury, invites you to relish in all the relaxed abandon of a countryside hotel while delighting in the bliss of opulent indulgence.

Perfectly positioned, it is easy to explore the many attractions offered by Oudtshoorn and the rest of the Garden Route. Or simply put your feet up and enjoy a champagne sunset from our deck overlooking the meadows of the Schoemanshoek Valley at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains.

Surval Boutique Olive Estate offers luxury accommodation with charming features including wedding and conference facilities, Lapa with sparkling pool, as well as an in-house restaurant with bar. We invite you to live like relaxed royalty during Ostrich Feather Boom as you enjoy the soothing, yet exclusive farm-chic atmosphere that has become synonymous with our award-winning estate and restaurant.

WHAT TO DO AT SURVAL BOUTIQUE OLIVE ESTATE
Not feeling lazy enough to spend time in your room, with a good book, perhaps? Or perfect sunny weather (for which the region is known) outside? Feel free to try any of the following to make your stay even more enjoyable:

OLIVE TASTING
Prices on request
Guided Olive & Farm tour through the orchards / Olive Tasting

  • Informal Tasting (serves 2 people). A tasting of all the olive products available at Surval. Available all day at Su Casa Restaurant without Reservation.
  • Formal Tasting. A tasting of all the olive products available paired with a glass of local wine in the orchards.
  • Olive / Farm Tour and Tasting. A guided olive tour through the orchards. An explanation as to the agricultural aspect of olive growing and production. The tour takes between 45 min and an hour and is followed by a formal tasting held in the orchards. The full range of products are tasted and paired with a glass of local wine. The tour and tasting requires a minimum of 24 hour notice at reception.

DAM BOATS
Situated close to Su Casa Restaurant you will find the tranquil waters of the Willow Dam, kayaks and a row boat are available for the enjoyment of guests out for a short paddle or a romantic bottle of bubbly on the pond with someone special.

SWIMMING POOL
Relax in our sparkling clear swimming pool after a day of sightseeing and adventure in and around Oudtshoorn. The view is an ever changing canvas of mountain and valley scenery. There is also a lapa with barbeque facilities available for your enjoyment.

MOUNTAIN BIKING
We have mountain bikes for hire, or you can bring your own, and enjoy the countryside under your own steam. Mounties all over the world are in agreement that there is no better way to get a close up view of the unique futures of an area, in a short time, than by mountain bike, powered by your own breath and legs.

WALKING TRAILS
We have a number of walking trails on the premises, suitable for everyone, from the fittest, to the not-so-fit, to families with small children. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes with sturdy soles and heel support.

ENJOY A PICNIC
“Let us make a feast
Upon the summer grass
Let us find a quiet place
And make the moment last.”
We can prepare a picnic feast for you, to be enjoyed in the quit expanse of the Klein Karoo. Please enquire / contact us for different menu options – reception@surval.co.za

PLAYGROUND FOR CHILDREN
Let the children work off their energy at our on-site playground, specially designed and equipped for them with jungle gym, swings, slide and more to keep them busy for hours. Adult supervision required.

SU CASA RESTAURANT
With a menu inspired by the produce of the local Klein Karoo region of South Africa, combined with international flair and cuisine excellence, our restaurant, Su Casa (a member of Confrêrie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, an international gastronomic society founded in Paris in 1950, which traces its origin back to 1248, and devoted to choice dining and the camaraderie of the table), offers an elegant dining experience equal to none.
Click here for more information!

BIRD WATCHING
Surval Boutique Olive Estate boasts a wealth of bird life, with bio-diversity on the estate moving from waters-edge to agricultural tracts of land, an ecology that will appeal to novice bird viewer to experienced ornithologists. Such seasonal visitors as the Red Bishop and the nocturnally active Spotted Eagle Owl. The estate is safe to explore on foot, making it a wonderful family activity.

STARGAZING
Far from the glare of the city lights, you can see and enjoy the Milky Way in its full splendour. Bring your telescope, or just lie on your back on the outside lawn and wonder about the vastness of the universe, and what is out there. (Note: the Little Karoo is considered to be one of the best places on earth for star gazing. This is the reason that the region was selected as one of two ‘finalists’ for the world’s most powerful radio telescope, the SKA (“Square Kilometre Array”) Telescope.

Parkrun

Oudtshoorn parkrun takes place every Saturday at 7:00am (October – March) & 8:00am (April – September)

What is Oudtshoorn parkrun?

It is a 5km run – it’s you against the clock.

When is it?

Every Saturday at 7:00am (October – March) & 8:00am (April – September).

Where is it?

The event takes place at the Surval Boutique Olive Estate, R328, Cango Caves / Buffelsdrift Road, Oudtshoorn, 6625. See Course page for more details.

Get in Touch

Email Enquiry
Contact Details
Telephone: +27 87 350 1950
Email: reservations@surval.co.za
Website: www.surval.co.za

Coordinates

Decimal Degrees (WGS84)
Latitude: -33.535067
Longitude: 22.234667

Degrees, Minutes & Seconds
Latitude: S33 32 06
Longitude: E22 14 04

GPS
Latitude: S 33 32.104
Longitude: E 22 14.080

Swartberg Country Manor

Feb 18, 2020

OUDTSHOORN DINNER, BED & BREAKFAST

SWARTBERG COUNTRY MANOR

4-stars

Overview

Nestled at the foot of the Swartberg mountains lies the eternal charm of the Swartberg Country Manor. A peaceful getaway into a world of serene beauty and relaxation.

As an endearing home away from home, our desire is that our guests encounter a timeless escape amidst an impressive landscape that features the tallest mountains in the Western Cape.

Enjoy a tranquil escape from busy life in an area of unspoiled natural beauty.

The Main House

The Main House offers 11 stylish rooms, and a breath taking panoramic mountain view can be seen from the open lounge.

The Historical House

Share in our charming history and book one of our four enchanting rooms in the Historical house overlooking a magnificent fig orchard.

Cottages

Each cottage contains three independent rooms, each leading onto a comfortable veranda overlooking the mountains. The views, we’re told, are so inspiring, you might never want to go to bed.

Honeymoon Suite

Each room provides a classic vintage feel with wooden floors and ceilings and broekie lace accents that add timeless ambiance to the character of our guest lodgings.

The Restaurant

Your stay with us would not be complete without enjoying a fusion of flavours from our restaurant’s kitchen.

At the heart of our hospitality is the desire to make all our guests feel like they’ve come home, and our honest, delicious food enchants with authentic dishes that incorporate the vast medley of unique ingredients that make up South African cuisine.

The Patat Restaurant, with its classically stylish décor, is a haven for relaxed dining and good conversation. Our hand-picked wine menu offers a delectable mix of South African wines.

Guests who stay with us can wake up to the aromas of a freshly cooked breakfast and linger a little longer on the rolling lush grounds of the manor with an exquisite picnic sourced from local providers – allowing you to experience real country fare. Round-off your evenings by enjoying a sundowner on the open deck of the restaurant and watch the Karoo sun paint the mountain in various shades of crimson.

3 Course Perfection

Enjoy the best of local flavours and ingredients at the hands of our head chef Lene.

Catering to every palate and occasion, we strive to offer sumptuous cuisine that has been finely prepared with precision and passion, utilizing fresh, local ingredients. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, or simply want to sample South African flavours, we believe you’ll be impressed with our seasonally styled offerings.

Picnics & Pairings

As the weather gets warmer, we encourage our guests to enjoy al fresco eating on our beautiful lawns with our Gourmet Picnics – the essential Summer dining experience. You can tuck into freshly made bread, homemade pesto and humus, a variety of cold meats and locally sourced cheeses and preserves…not forgetting a bottle of Tangled Tree wine, designed especially for picnics. We also encourage guests to customize their choices, if we have a full days’ notice in advance, and we’re always keen to recommend local delicacies.

Each month we offer a new pairing experience to delight the taste buds, drawing on inspiration from our local area. Our chefs create a unique dining experience that will change the way you view food, as well as introducing you to locally crafted gin, wine and beer.

Our Rates
From R1 500 per person sharing, contact reservations for information regarding current specials.

Get in Touch

Email Enquiry
Contact Details
Telephone: +27 66 404 2608
Email: res@swartbergmanor.co.za
Website: www.swartbergmanor.co.za
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Business hours

Check In: From 14:00
Check Out: At 10:00

ADDRESS

Decimal Degrees (WGS84)
Latitude: 33.57
Longitude: 17.37

Degrees, Minutes & Seconds
Latitude: N33 34 12
Longitude: E17 22 12

GPS
Latitude: N 33 34.200
Longitude: E 17 22.200

Swartberg Game Reserve

Dec 18, 2019

OUDTSHOORN ACTIVITIES

SWARTBERG GAME RESERVE

Overview

Giraffe Walks, Game Drives & Holiday Packages
Seek out wild animals in their natural environment at Swartberg Game Reserve.

Its time to slow down, to truly connect with the wild.

An award-winning destination, offering unique experiences in the Klein Karoo, South Africa.

Featuring the breathtaking Swartberg Mountains, over 20 species of antelope and a number of indigenous predators. Only 20 minutes from the Cango Caves and 40 minutes from Oudtshoorn.

Day visitors welcome, but why not stay a couple of days? There is too much to do and see!

Giraffe Walks

Our Giraffe Walks will leave you breathless.  The Klein Karoo veld is your trail; the iconic Swartberg mountains your backdrop.  Immerse yourself in our reserve and walk with giraffe.

Being on foot with these gentle giants will give you an insight into their secret lives and offer you a perspective that very few have ever experienced. You are on their turf now.

A 2 hour authentic wildlife experience in the Klein Karoo.

Suitable for the whole family, young and old, guided by qualified guide.

Game Drives

A 1,5 hour scenic game drive on the slopes of the Swartberg Mountain, either in the morning or at night.

The reserve is home to two of the Big 5: Buffalo and Leopard. Other sightings include Giraffe, Cape Mountain Zebra as well as over 20 species of other antelope. View a staggering 887 bird species.. and counting. You are bound to encounter something new on your game drive.

Hold tight as we explore the hidden valleys and plains in one of our nine seater safari vehicles.

Holiday Packages

Days on the reserve are made up of morning and evening activities like our famous Giraffe Walks. And of course game drives, animal tracking, bush brunches & sunset drinks.

​Day trips include Cango Caves, Snow-safari mountain top tour (seasonal), Ostrich Emporium tour and more. 

​Includes: host/guide every day, all accommodation (game lodge and guesthouse), most meals, all private transfers, activities specified.

  • ​Qualified guides and friendly staff.
  • Game reserve activities are run from our Activity Hub.
  • Well established 10 bedroom luxury game lodge (min 2 nights stay). With Breakfast and dinner catering service. Beverage list provided for orders.
  • Group options available for exclusive or half lodge rental.
  • Farmhouse kitchen facilities.

A Family Legacy

In 1998 the Geldenhuys family began the process of acquiring over 8000 hectares of land at the foot of the Swartberg Mountain range (a World Heritage Site) in the Klein Karoo, Western Cape. The land was used to develop Swartberg Private Wildlife Estate, Welgevonden Private Game Reserve and Wildehondekloof Private Game Reserve.

A partnership was formed between the Geldenhuys and Frew families to consolidate the Swartberg Collection, a proudly South African run operation.

​Andre’ and Nicki Geldenhuys, founders of the Swartberg brand, have deep roots in travel and tourism. They founded Seekers Travel in 1989, a company which would move over 1 million people in and out of South Africa. 

After selling the company to Tourvest in 1998, Andre’ lent his expertise and sat on their board for a number of years.

The next generation, a dynamic travel couple, now run wildlife experiences on Swartberg Game Reserve. This is one part to the collection. 

Get in Touch

Email Enquiry
Contact Details
Telephone: +27 82 577 2835
Email: info@swartberggamereserve.com
Website: www.swartberggamereserve.com

ADDRESS

Decimal Degrees (WGS84)
Latitude: -33.424743
Longitude: 21.937379

Degrees, Minutes & Seconds
Latitude: S33 25 29
Longitude: E21 56 14

GPS
Latitude: S 33 25.485
Longitude: E 21 56.243

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Swartberg Pass

Aug 6, 2024

SWARTBERG PASS

(OUT OF TOWN)

Where is the Pass situated?

Between Oudtshoorn & Prince Albert in the Western Cape.

What is the distance of the Pass?

The pass itself is approx. 25km gravel road.

Do you need a 4×4?

No, but higher ground clearance will certainly count in your favour.

What is the height of the Pass?

The pass is 1,583m above sea level.

Swartber Pass
Swartber Pass
Swartber Pass
Swartber Pass

WHERE IS THE PASS LOCATED?

The Swartberg Pass lies right at the heart of the Swartberg Circle Route. This scenic route takes you along the picturesque back roads from Oudtshoorn to Calitzdorp, De Rust, Klaarstroom and Prince Albert, over the Swartberg Pass and through Meiringspoort. The pass itself is situated between the towns of Oudtshoorn & Prince Albert in the Western Cape, South Africa.

DISTANCE OF THE PASS & NEAREST TOWNS

The pass itself is approx. 25km gravel road that connects the towns of Oudtshoorn and Prince Albert. Although the distance seems short, the pass is renowned for its steep climbs and sudden switchbacks, so best take it slow while properly soaking up the spectacular scenery along the way. You can set aside approx. 1h for the pass itself and an extra 10min to reach the pass from Prince Albert and 20min from Oudtshoorn.

IS IT DIFFICULT TO ACCESS THE PASS?

Not at all! The pass connects the Klein Karoo town of Oudtshoorn and the Groot Karoo town of Prince Albert and the well-maintained access roads from both sides make it easy to reach. Allow yourself about 10min to reach the pass from Prince Albert (+/-5km) and 20min from Oudtshoorn (+/-40km) while setting aside roughly 1h for the 25km pass itself.

DO YOU NEED A 4X4?

No, but higher ground clearance will certainly count in your favour. We don’t, however, recommend this route for cars with very low clearance. Do take note that the road can be quite rocky in certain parts. The narrow lanes and sharp bends also necessitates that you take it nice and slow while keeping an eye out for oncoming cars. There are various narrow parts where one driver often needs to give way in order for both vehicles to pass each other safely.

JUST HOW STEEP IS THAT CLIMB? SOME INTERESTING FACTS:

This formidable pass, at an elevation of 1,583m above sea level, climbs a whopping 1000m over a distance of 12km, with a max gradient of 1:8. Yes, it’s a steep one, but those brave enough to venture to the top are rewarded with the most breathtaking views!

For more info on the history and construction of the pass, visit the The History of the Swartberg Pass.

LOOKOUT POINTS:

There are various viewpoints where you can stop to stretch your legs, break out your picnic basket, savour the spectacular views and get a closer look at this pristine environment teeming with life.

BIRDWATCHING & WILDLIFE:

This UNESCO World Heritage Site has an incredibly rich diversity of plant and animal life, with some species so rare, they’re found nowhere else on earth. Take your time driving this incredible pass and keep your eyes peeled. You’ll spot a variety of critters including the dassie, klipspringer, vibrantly coloured lizards, baboons and many more. Avid bird watchers are in for a treat, as bird species abound in this area. Bring your binoculars and remember your camera.

HIKING & BIKING:

There are various hiking and biking trails on the pass itself. The hiking trails vary in length and intensity, making it easy to pick out the best trail for your fitness level. These do, however, require permits which can be obtained from the Cape Nature offices. The biking trails are better suited for more experienced cyclers as the terrain can be rough and the steep climbs quite brutal.

If you require any information about the Swartberg Pass, please feel free to contact us.

SIGNPOSTS ON THE SWARTBERG PASS

The following boards (from north to south) have been erected to indicate places of historic interest:

EERSTEWATER (First Water)
It was given this name because the draught animals could be outspanned here before the long, tiring journey. On their return they were fed and watered here. Bain’s first convict base camp was here and the ruins are still visible.

TWEEDEWATER (Second Water)
The older people will remember that before the low-water bridge was built, they had to wait for the water level to drop before crossing the stream.

MALVADRAAI (Geranium Bend)
This is the spot in the mountains where geraniums (Pelargonium zonale) grow luxuriantly. They are always green and often covered with flowers. One just cannot miss them. This natural inlet offers the traveller a place to stop and look at the rock formations. One of the Swartberg’s most beautiful hiking trails starts here.

BLIKSTASIE (TRONK) (The Jail)
During the building of the pass, a stone and clay structure to confine the convicts at night, was built at this spot. The present ruins are the remains of this structure.

DROËWATERVAL (Dry Waterfall)
During the rainy season it is a unique sight to see the water cascading down. During the summer months it is usually dry; hence the name.

TEEBERG (Tea Mountain)
In this area you will find the well-known honey tea bush which was much sought after by earlier inhabitants. Dealers used to market the honey tea in large quantities. This is surely one of the most aromatic teas, but unfortunatelyit is unknown to the younger generation. From this point the summit of the pass is visible, and if you look into the chasm, you will recognise ‘Malvadraai’ far below.

FONTEINTJIE 1884 (Little Fountain)
This fountain forms a beautiful waterfall and is a perennial stream. A few hundred metres higher is a pine plantation started as an experiment in 1927. (Pinus muricata; Pinus taeda)

GAMKASKLOOF 57KM (Gamka’s Kloof)
Also known as The Hell, it is a secluded settlement in a valley in the Swartberg Mountains and is well-known for its delicious fruit and vegetables. Its dried figs are a gourmets delight.

OU TOLHUIS (The Old Toll House)
At the pine grove stood the old Toll House where road-users paid the toll.No sign remains of the Toll House, but a board with a sketch of the old Toll House has been erected.

DIE TOP (The Top)
The Top is 1 585m above sea level and the highest point of the pass. From this point nature lovers can see the marvels of creation for kilometres to the north and south.

DIE GROOT KLIP (The Big Stone)
This is a very popular place to stop when travelling from the south. From here the summit of the mountain pass is visible.

BOEGOEKLOOF 1886 (Buchu Kloof)
In earlier days this was the areas medicine chest because various species of buchu grow here. The best known is the mountain buchu (Empleurum unicapsulare), aniseed buchu (Agathosma cerefolium) and long leaf buchu (Agathosma crenulatal). The buchu was usually put in brandy or vinegar and the extract used as medicine for stomach and many other ailments.

SKELMDRAAI (The Tricky Bend)
To the traveller from the north, the road seems to come to an end, and then it turns sharply to the left. From the south the road is very steep with a difficult, concealed hairpin bend, hence the name.

FONTEINTJIE (Small Fountain)
(On the southern slope)
Here a perennial stream flows from the high peaks to revive tired travellers. In bygone days a watermelon was placed in this stream by travellers from Prince Albert when they visited Oudtshoorn. On their return the well chilled melon could be enjoyed.

HOTELLETJIE (Small Hotel)
After the completion of the Swartberg Pass a postal service was instituted between Prince Albert Road and Oudtshoorn. To offer overnight accommodation, a modest hotel, the ruins of which can still be seen today, was erected on the southern slope. Some old maps still refer to this old inn as the Victoria Hotel.

PLANTASIE (Plantation)
This pine plantation was started as an experiment in 1927. It is a convenient picnic spot where tables and benches have been erected. It provides the ideal place for stretching one’s legs.

WITDRAAIE (The White Curves)
These curves are so named because of the two hairpin bends cut into the limestone deposits, which give the road a whitish appearance.

STALLETJIE (The Stables)
The horses that were used to draw the mail coach were fed and watered here. Fresh horses were harnessed for the journey both to the north and the south.

NEVILLE SE DRAAI (Neville’s Bend)
There is a sharp bend on the plateau on top of the mountain. It was too dangerous to erect a sign there, but the bend is called ‘Neville se Draai.’ At the age of 42 John Fitz Neville, Clerk of Works during the construction of the Swartberg Pass, was killed in an accident on this curve on 8 March, 1888. Some people believe he was killed in a dynamite explosion and others say he was thrown from his horse.

Source: Swartberg Pass Masterpiece of a brilliant Road Engineer by Helena Marincowitz

Swartberg Pass Cottages

Jan 16, 2023

OUDTSHOORN ACCOMMODATION

(OUT OF TOWN)

SWARTBERG PASS COTTAGES

WHERE TO FIND THEM:
Swartberg Pass Cottages are on the R308, centrally located between Oudtshoorn, Prince Albert, Calitzdorp and Gamkaskloof. They are only a 30-minute drive from Oudtshoorn and 10 minutes from the Cango Caves.

THE COTTAGES:
These two cottages, with their stunning 360° views of the Swartberg Mountains, can both sleep six guests. Each has two en-suite bedrooms and a kitchen with a stove, oven, toaster, fridge-freezer and tea/coffee making facilities. Both cottages have a built-in braai area with beautiful views, and braai packs are available on request. Pets are also welcome!

TASTY MEALS PLUS AN ADVENTURE:
Dig into a spread of traditional South African dishes at Kobus se Gat (located on the premises and open 09:00 – 17:00). Keen to explore? Join them on a guided Swartberg tour and add some adventure with a downhill mountain bike ride back to the restaurant. E-bikes rentals are also available.

Get in Touch

BOOK NOW
Contact Details
Telephone: +27 82 852 4778
Email: info@swartbergexperience.co.za
Website: www.swartbergexperience.co.za
l

Business hours

Check In: From 14:00
Check Out: At 10:00

ADDRESS

Decimal Degrees (WGS84)
Latitude: -33.388536
Longitude: 22.105211

Degrees, Minutes & Seconds
Latitude: S33 23 18
Longitude: E22 06 18

GPS
Latitude: S 33 23.312
Longitude: E 22 06.313