Western Cape Article - South African Vacations

Darling Museum: The museum is located in the old City Hall, which was built in 1899. Themuseum records the history and development of the town and includes exhibits such as oldkitchen utensils and Victorian artefacts. Darling is one of the biggest dairy-producing areas inthe Western Cape and Darling butter is renowned. The butter museum forms part of the mainmuseum.Signal Cannon: The cannon was first mounted on Klipberg in 1734 to signal farmers when aship had arrived at the Cape, so that they could take their produce to town to sell. It alsosignalled danger to the residents, when needed.EBENAEZER (including Papendorp)The small village of Ebenaezer is surrounded by a predominantly farming community thatproduces mainly lucerne (alfalfa), beans and coriander. Ebenaezer and Papendorp overlookthe Olifants River Estuary. The nearby wetlands of the Olifants River Estuary are an importanthabitat for migratory birds and for many other species of birds. The main source of income ofthe residents of Papendorp is derived from fishing in the estuary.FAUNA AND FLORAWild flowers: From July to September the entire region turns into a floral wonderland.Olifants River Estuary: The wetlands estuary is a bird paradise and gives bird-watchers ampleopportunities to spot many species of birds.Whale-watching: Ebenaezer and Papendorp are often used as a base from where to visit thebeaches to watch whales during the whale season (June to November).ELANDS BAYThe village of Eland’s Bay and its surrounds is truly picturesque and the nearby lagoon is apopular bird-watching spot. Surfers frequent the the local beaches.ADVENTURE AND SPORTAngling: Sea and fresh water anglers are a common site in Elands Bay. Crayfish can also becaught, but only during the crayfish season and then only once a permit has been obtained.Adventure Activities: Elands Bay is a popular surfing location, but the area also offers 4x4routes, as well as mountaineering and mountain-biking opportunities.ARCHAEOLOGY AND PALAEONTOLOGYSan Rock Art in Eland’s Bay Cave: Eland’s Bay Cave lies a few kilometres from the sea and itsrock art dates back 10 000 years. The red handprints on the cave walls have been interpretedas the artist’s wish to enter the spiritual world.FAUNA AND FLORAVerlorenvlei: Some 240 different bird species reside at Verlorenvlei (“Lost Marsh”).The watersof Verlorenvlei flow into the Atlantic Ocean.Whales and dolphins: Visitors can do whale and dolphin-watching from shore, every yearfrom June to November.162