Western Cape Article - South African Vacations

DE DOORNS (including Touwsriver)This small town in the Hex River Valley was named after a local thorn bush (doringbos). Thevineyards of the Hex River Valley produce most of the export grapes of South Africa. Thelegend of the witch (heks) tells of a young girl, Eliza Meiring, whose great love died a tragicdeath in 1768. When her grief became too much for her to bear, she jumped to her death. Tothis day she is said to wander the area looking for her lost love.During the late autumn season the valley turns into a colour extravaganza, which is verypopular amongst photographers. The Hex River is dominated by the Matroosberg Peak(Sailor Mountain) named after Klaas Matroos who lived in the area.Touws River originated as a railway depot and junction.ADVENTURE AND SPORT4x4 Route: The Hex River 4x4 Trail starts at the foot of the Quado MountainRange. The Aquila Game Reserve also has a 4x4 route.CUISINETours: The De Doorns area is predominately a farming region and many farm tours areorganised where visitors can observe how the fruit is packed and arranged. Some wine farmsgive visitors an opportunity to pick their own grapes.FAUNA AND FLORAAquila Game Reserve: The reserve features some beautiful mountains and is home to manyspecies of animals and birds. Various outdoor activities can also be enjoyed, such as horseroutes and 4x4 trails.25