Karookop Cottage in Clanwilliam, West Coast, South Africa | Boating | Canoeing | Cycling / Biking | Fishing | Hiking | Outdoor Activities | Self Catering | Watersports | Cottages | Walks | Horse riding | Horseback Riding | Eco Tourism | SELF CATERING APARTMENT | Wine farms | Mountain Biking | Mountain Bike Trails

Karookop Cottage is located at the foothills of the Karookop mountain on the outskirts of Clanwilliam, along the Western Cape West Coast Route in South Africa.

Karookop Cottage is along the Pakhuis Pass, gateway to the Cederberg Wilderness Reserve with its stunning rock formations and extensive collection of ancient San rock art, this is an ideal location from which to explore the splendour of the region.

Surrounded by spectacular mountain views, the cottage overlooks fruit trees and vineyards which line the banks of the Jan Dissels River. Set back from the road in a small cluster of four houses, Karookop offers the tranquillity of the Cederberg yet is two minutes from the town centre and a five minute drive to the popular Clanwilliam Dam.

The dam is known for its variety of water sports and recreational activities while the town itself offers an assortment of restaurants, shops and historical buildings.

The spacious cottage is surrounded by a wide paved verandah (stoep) with sparkling swimming pool, lawns, garden and a large convivial braai (BBQ) area. The cottage dates from the mid 1800's when built by Irish settlers and has recently been renovated to a particularly high standard.

There are three large, bright bedrooms and two bathrooms. The master bedroom has a king sized bed, air-conditioning, private walk-in dressing area and en-suite bathroom. The second bedroom offers two single beds and has private access to the second bathroom, with the option of being fully en-suite. The third bedroom also offers twin beds. Both bathrooms contain top class finishes, are tiled in travertine and have baths and separate showers.

The living area comprises an open-plan kitchen and dining area, living room and separate scullery area. The kitchen features granite work tops and high quality oak cupboards and is fully equipped with all mod cons (including oven, hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, kettle, toaster, crockery, cooking utensils etc). At the heart of the kitchen and dining area is a large open fire offering warmth and comfort on those chilly evenings. The scullery contains a washing machine and dishwasher.

The open-plan living and dining areas are fully air-conditioned and open directly onto the verandah and outside entertainment areas. The spacious lounge area has two couches and an arm chair with TV (DSTV) and a portable hi-fi.

Outside entertainment areas include a large braai area, refreshing swimming pool with sun loungers and well maintained lawns. Covered and shaded parking is available for 3 cars. Bed linen and towels are provided and a maid service can be arranged on request at an additional charge.

The picturesque town of Clanwilliam, one of the ten oldest in South Africa, offers a huge diversity of activities for visitors. Cederberg Wilderness Reserve: The Cederberg Wilderness Reserve is a protected area extending for 710 square kilometres with some of the most breathtaking scenery in South Africa. There are numerous designated Hiking trails including routes to the renowned rock features and the two main peaks.

Clanwilliam Dam: The Clanwilliam dam is acknowledged as the best in the Western Cape for water skiing and is popular with anglers. When full, it stretches about 18km upstream. The Olifants River, which feeds the dam, has the widest variety of indigenous fish species south of the Zambezi and is one of the Cape?s most sought-after inland Fishing spots.

Hiking and Adventure Sports: Numerous adventure sports are on offer nearby including wilderness Hiking, rock-climbing, abseiling, Mountain Biking, Horse riding, quad biking, 4x4 routes, river rafting, Canoeing and water skiing.

Historical Buildings: As one of the oldest settlements north along the Western Cape West Coast Route, Clanwilliam features a number of interesting historical buildings including the old gaol (which is now a museum), the Dutch Reformed Church (?Flower Church?), the Anglican Church and the first magistrates office and dwellings. Historical guided walking tours of the town are available.

Oliphants River Wine Route: The Oliphants River Wine Route encompasses three of the largest co-operative cellars in South Africa, an organic cellar and several boutique cellars, all of which are open to visitors.

Rooibos Tea: Rooibos is a type of fynbos plant grown only in the mountain regions around Clanwilliam. Rooibos tea is a popular South African drink and is exported worldwide. Visitors can tour the tea factory and taste the teas.
San Rock Art: With over 2,500 discovered sites, the Cederberg region is one of the best areas for ancient San rock art in the world. Some of the oldest rock art here is believed to be between 6000 and 8000 years old.

Spring Flowers: During August and September (depending on winter rainfall) Clanwilliam and the surrounding areas come to life with a spectacular wild flower display. The ?flower season? attracts visitors from around the globe. Ramskop Nature Reserve at the Clanwilliam Dam Resort boasts a staggering 250 indigenous species of wild flowers.