Buffelsfontein Nature Reserve

Buffelsfontein Game and Nature Reserve is situated on the R27 on the West Coast.  Really worth doing!

Beer and Wine

Black Eagle Craft Brewery: 072 884 8299
Darling Cellars: 022 4592 276
Groote Post Vineyards: 022 492 2825
The Darling Wine Shop: 022 492 3971

Langebaan

Langebaan is a coastal town that lies along a crystal clear lagoon that stretches into the West Coast National Park. The receeding tide creates a spectacular habitat for birds and other wildlife and can be enjoyed any time of year. You can enjoy sailing, kite surfing, fishing, restaurants and even a casino resort.

Darling

An inland farm settlement turned into a quaint artists town with coffee shops, curio shops and restaurants. It is well known and loved amongst local Cape Tonians as the perfect place to go for day trip and relax with some good music and great food. 

Lime Kilns in Yzerfontein

On the R315, look out for the white lime kilns along the road. From the time of Jan van Riebeeck, kilns like these were used to burn mussel shells. The residue was sifted and then mixed with animal fat to make a lime wash for painting buildings.

Yzerfontein Vishuis

This is the oldest building in Yzerfontein and was built at the turn of the century. It was used to store fish and salt. It is constructed with stones and cement with a thatched roof. The construction of the thatched roof is unique. It’s open to the public during week days.

4×4 Drives in Yzerfontein

The 4×4 trail on Blombosch Farm is about 7km from Yzerfontein. It is a 14km track and takes about two hours to complete. Braai and toilet facilities are available halfway.

Hiking Trails in Yzerfontein

The 2km Schaap Island trail starts on the main beach and runs in a southerly direction towards the harbour. The 16 mile trail starts at the main beach and runs north along the beach towards the West Coast National Park.

Whale watching in Yzerfontein

Southern Right Whales, Humpback Whales and Heavy side Dolphins are frequently spotted from several whale observation sites in Yzerfontein during the months of June to November. Whale information boards and benches can be found at these observation sites.

Water Sports in Yzerfontein

Water sport enthusiasts from as far as Europe visit Yzerfontein on a regular basis. The small –craft harbour allows the launching of boats and jet skis in restricted areas, while the wide shallow bay is popular with body boarders, kite surfers and windsurfers. 

Yzerfontein Arts and Crafts Route

• Cheryl’s Pottery Corner at Jacobuskraal – just off the R315 towards Yzerfontein – Pottery classes and sales. Tel: 022 4512 677.

• Michadri Art Studio – Orchard Street, Yzerfontein – Art classes and sales. Tel: 022 4512 725.

• Whale Tales Studio on Dassen Island Drive- Pottery and paintings from local artists for sale. Tel: 022 4512 881

Fishing in Yzerfontein

Yzerfontein is a fishing village, and fishermen angle from the beach and rocks, and (in season & with permits) can also collect mussels, catch crayfish and fish such as snoek, tuna or yellowtail. The Snoek Derby and the Crayfish Derby are very popular events with the keen
fishermen.

Wild Flowers & Indigenous Gardens

During September and October, an abundance of spring flowers such as Arum Lilies, Wild Cinerarias, and dazzling white and orange Daisies can be seen in Yzerfontein. The town also boasts three indigenous gardens that can be visited throughout the year. The indigenous  garden on Dassen Island Drive even has a maze.

Birding Trail

Yzerfontein is a haven for birdlife, including a breeding population of rare Black Oystercatchers, gulls of various species and cormorants. At the nearby salt- pans and the gypsum mine, you could catch a glimpse or a European visitor- a flamingo or a pelican. Also, garden birds abound in the town’s greenbelts.