Western Cape Article - South African Vacations

The brilliantly blue sea, pristine white rocks and crisp sea air attract many to secludedSt Helena Bay. The Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, who landed here on the feast ofSt Helen, on 7 November 1497, gave the bay its name. The area was the scene of the firstknown skirmish between Europeans and Africans in Southern Africa, which developed out ofa brawl between a Portuguese sailor and some Khoi. On that occasion, however, no one waskilled.ADVENTURE AND SPORTAdventure activities: Some of the adventure possibilities that the area offers are diving, hiking,micro-lighting, sea-kayaking, surfing, wind-surfing and 4x4 routes.CUISINESnoek Season: Snoek (a form of sea-pike) is one of the delicacies of the West Coast. Duringthe snoek season, these fish are caught in their thousands and several methods ofpreparation are employed to create fish treats and dishes. Many consider snoek roe (alsoknown as Cape Caviar) their favourite and snoek soup and quiche are also popular.FAUNA AND FLORABirds: The bay is renowned as a bird-watchers’ paradise.Whales and dolphins: St Helena Bay is home to both whales and dolphins all year round.Wild flowers: The wild flowers of the region bloom from late July to October.HISTORY AND ARCHITECTUREVasco da Gama Monument and Vasco da Gama Museum: The monument and museumhonour the discoverer of St Helena Bay.VANRHYNSDORPThe town was first known as Trutro (pronounced Troe-Troe) but was changed toVanrhynsdorp in 1881 to honour the Van Rhyn family for its contribution as community andchurch leaders. Vanrhynsdorp is in the wild-flower region but also has a rich variety ofsucculents, an unusual occurrence in this dry area. The Matzikamma Mountains add evenmore diversity to the lovely area. Discovering all the interesting sites in and around the townwill keep you occupied for several days.ADVENTURE AND SPORTAdventure Activities: Off-road motor cycling, 4x4 routes, paragliding, river-rafting, rockclimbingand swimming are some of the adventure opportunities.Hiking: Several hiking trails traverse the region. The Succulent Hiking Trail leads throughterrain where indigenous succulents are sure to be spotted. Snorkfontein is also a popularhiking destination and has camping facilities.Mountain-climbing and biking: The Matzikamma Mountain Range presents many opportunitiesfor mountain-climbing and mountain-biking.Photography: Amateur and professional photographers are presented with views too lovely toignore.175