Vanrhynsdorp, Western Cape

Hub of the Flower Route

Vanrhynsdorp is a quiet town, lying in among the folds of the towering Matzikamma and Gifberg Mountains en route to Namibia from Cape Town.

It is the ideal town to use as a base to explore the Namaqualand Flower area as well as the West Coast Mission Route, which includes the Namaqualand and Karoo Mission stations. The best time to visit to explore the flower region is between August and October. For a short time, each year after good winter rains, the countryside explodes into a spectacular show of colours. Vanrhynsdorp is also home to a succulent nursery that is the largest of its kind in the world. This nursery draws a lot of attention from both overseas and local visitors alike.

With a distinct Victorian character Vanrhynsdorp offers a wide range of attractions, from those that are culturally and historically interesting, to exciting eco-experiences. The town is also only 30 minutes from towns such as Nieuwoudtville, Klawer and Vredendal and only an hours’ drive to Strandfontein and Doringsbaai beaches.

There are numerous accommodation establishments in the town and the surrounding area ranging from camping to rustic farm accommodation to comfortable bed & breakfasts, guesthouses and a hotel.

Places to Visit

Things to do and see

• Vanrhyns Pass
• Gifberg Pass
• Tierberg Pass
• Latsky Radio Museum
• Traut’s Tie Collection
• Cape Flower Route
• Kokerboom Nursery
• Knersvlakte Spens Nursery & Farm Shop
• Maskam 4X4 Trail
• Doringsbaai Beach
• Strandfonten Beach

Climate

Vanrhynsdorp receives approximately 133 mm of rain annually with most rainfall occurring during Autumn and Winter.

Summer months, November to March will have average temperatures of between 15˚C and 33˚C.

Winter months, May to August will have average temperatures of between 6˚C and 19˚C.

Transport

There are daily flights into Cape Town International Airport, approximately 304 km’s away via the N7. Car hire facilities are available at the Airport.

History

Vanrhynsdorp was founded as Trutro, ('TroeTroe'), after the area became known through the expeditions made by Pieter van Meerhoff in 1661. It is the oldest and southern most town in Namaqualand.

The Troe-Troe Zending ("Mission") dates back to the completion in 1751 and during the era of the Troe-Troe Zending and the involvement of Hendrik van Rhijn the establishment of several mission stations like Wupperthal, Ebenhaeier, Leliefontein, Steinkopf and others took place.

The name was changed to Vanrhynsdorp in 1881 to honour the nearly legendary Van Rhijns for the invaluable contribution made as community and church leaders.