Let’s Take a Road Trip Up the West Coast on the N7!

Hey there! Are you ready for an amazing adventure? Buckle up and join me as we embark on an unforgettable road trip up the beautiful West Coast on the N7. Get ready to explore stunning landscapes, charming towns, and indulge in delicious food. This is going to be one wild ride!

The West Coast is known for its breathtaking scenery and laid-back vibe. As we cruise along the N7, we’ll be surrounded by majestic mountains, pristine beaches, and vibrant fynbos. It’s like driving through a postcard!

Our first stop is the charming town of Darling. Known for its artistic spirit and friendly locals, this place is a real gem. Let’s take a stroll down the main street and pop into the quirky shops and galleries. Oh, and don’t forget to try some of the famous Darling wine. Cheers!

Next up, we’ll make our way to Langebaan. This coastal town is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Grab your surfboard or kayak and hit the waves. And if you prefer something more relaxing, just chill out on the soft sandy beaches and soak up the sun. Life’s a beach, right?

Now, let’s head to the beautiful West Coast National Park. This haven of biodiversity is home to a wide range of bird species, including flamingos. Take a leisurely drive through the park and keep your eyes peeled for some incredible wildlife. Nature at its finest!

No road trip is complete without a foodie adventure. Our next stop is the town of Paternoster, famous for its fresh seafood. Dig into a plate of mouthwatering crayfish or sample the local delicacy, “bokkoms.” It might sound strange, but trust me, it’s delicious!

Our final destination is the laid-back fishing village of Elands Bay. This hidden gem is known for its epic surf breaks and rugged beauty. Grab a board and catch some waves, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquility of this coastal haven.

Well, my friend, our road trip up the West Coast on the N7 has come to an end. I hope you had an amazing time exploring the stunning landscapes, meeting friendly locals, and indulging in delicious food. This adventure will be etched in our memories forever. Until the next road trip!

Ever since I turned 16, I’ve had to deal with the dreaded N7 roadworks that always seem to get in the way of my camping adventures. But this time, I was determined not to let them ruin my trip to Hondeklipbaai. And let me tell you, it was well worth the effort.

When I arrived at Hondeklipbaai, I was greeted with breathtaking views of the pristine beach. The golden sand stretched out as far as the eye could see, glistening in the sunlight. It was the perfect spot for setting up camp.

But what really made this camping experience special was the incredible West Coast hospitality. The locals were so friendly and welcoming, making me feel right at home. They shared their knowledge of the area and recommended the best fishing spots and hiking trails.

Throughout my stay, I couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty of nature surrounding me. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore was both soothing and invigorating. And at night, the starry sky seemed to stretch on forever, filling me with a sense of wonder.

As I packed up my tent and said goodbye to Hondeklipbaai, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this unforgettable experience. It reminded me of the importance of embracing new adventures and not letting anything stand in your way.

So if you’re looking for a camping trip that will leave you in awe of the natural world and surrounded by warm hospitality, Hondeklipbaai is the place for you. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

Every year, like clockwork, Chiefs Tented Camps sets up their extravagant domed accommodations along the untamed coast of Namaqua National Park. It’s a sight to behold.

I’ve spent countless hours stuck on the N7, it feels like forever. Back in the 90s, it was those pesky stop-go’s that kept ruining my school camping trips to the beautiful Cederberg. Then came Piekeniers Pass, bringing with it long hours of sitting bumper-to-bumper. And just when I thought things would improve, the roadworks moved to Malmesbury. Now, I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s a traffic jam in Klawer. It feels like I’ve been dealing with this for two whole decades. When will it ever end?

Here I am, stuck in this never-ending cycle of road repairs. It feels like the roads are purposely designed to constantly keep us frustrated. As I wait at yet another stop-go outside Vanrhynsdorp, I can’t help but question my decision-making.

I knew the N7 would be a nightmare, yet here I am, trapped in this never-ending traffic. But enough is enough. I refuse to be fooled again. There have to be other routes along the beautiful West Coast. Even if they take a bit longer, exploring new paths will surely be more enjoyable than wasting my life away in these queues.

My friend and I had a few free days, so we decided to take a road trip from Cape Town to Hondeklipbaai, but we wanted to avoid the N7. We thought it would be fun to drive along the coast, so we headed to Langebaan and planned to continue north, staying as close to the water as we could. If we saw a road going west, we were definitely going to take it. We wanted to be as far away from construction as possible, with only whales and lobsters for company.

A trip to Langebaan is always an adventure

When I was a kid, Langebaan was the ultimate place to go for a family vacation. We stayed in a huge house without electricity, and there was only one store where we could buy lucky packets and MAD magazines. It’s been years since I last visited, and boy, things have really changed! Now, there are massive holiday homes all over the hills by the lagoon. They’re not tacky or anything, just much bigger than what I remember. The main street is bustling with restaurants and chain stores. And let me tell you, kitesurfing is all the rage here now. The owner of WindChasers Guest House told me that customers come and go like the wind, always on the lookout for the perfect breeze.

Wow, there are so many kitesurfers at Windtown! This place must be really popular. While I was searching for a place to stay, I stumbled upon The Farmhouse Hotel. It’s a fancy four-star hotel perched on top of a hill, giving you an amazing view of the yacht club. The hotel used to be a simple guest house in the 90s, but now it’s been transformed into something grand. As I entered, the smell of wood smoke and the sight of wooden panels brought back memories, but the luxurious decor was something new.

I have to say, Room 9 caught my attention. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by a stunning view of the lagoon. It’s the kind of room that’s perfect for a romantic getaway. And that kingsize bed? It looked so inviting, but unfortunately, I wasn’t sharing it with anyone. Maybe next time.

After leaving The Farmhouse Hotel, I and my friend Tyson decided to find a campsite. However, we soon realized that the campsites in Langebaan weren’t exactly top-notch. They were pretty disappointing, to be honest. Eventually, we settled for Oostewal Caravan Park. It wasn’t too bad, considering it was clean and only a bit worn-out. Plus, it was reasonably priced at R119 for the stand.

Looking back, I wish I had spent a little more money to visit the West Coast National Park. It turned out to be much more than the empty land with a dirt road and no fences that I remembered. When I arrived, I was given a map at the entrance that showed the many trails for hiking and mountain biking, as well as bird-watching spots and places to have a barbecue. I noticed the Duinepos Chalets, which are cottages owned by SANParks, and even a few houseboats that you can stay in.

Hey there, don’t miss out on this awesome park! It’s got everything you need for a fun-filled day, like beautiful cottages, scenic walking trails, thrilling mountain biking routes, sandy beaches, and cozy braai spots where you can enjoy a tasty BBQ.

So, where can you stay in Langebaan?

If you’re looking for a camping experience, check out Oostewal Caravan Park. You can set up your tent on one of their stands, which costs R119 per night for four people. For more information, give them a call at 022 772 2442.

If you prefer a comfy guest house, WindChasers Guest House is a great choice. They offer dormitory-style B&B rooms and self-catering rooms starting from R250/R325 per person. Contact them at Tel 082 079 0500 or visit windchaserssa.com.

For a stylish and relaxing stay, try Windtown. They have single, double, and triple B&B rooms available, with prices ranging from R850 to R1,250 per room. You can reach them at Tel 022 772 1064 or visit windtown-sa.com.

If you’re looking for a charming hotel, The Farmhouse Hotel is the place to be. They offer cozy double B&B rooms starting from R725 per person. Contact them at Tel 022 772 2062 or visit thefarmhousehotel.com.

Looking for accommodation in the West Coast National Park?

Duinepos Chalets

Located on the scenic West Coast, Duinepos Chalets offers self-catering chalets that can accommodate four to six people. Rates start at R1,065 for four people, making it an affordable option for a cozy getaway. To make a reservation or for more information, you can contact them at Tel 022 707 9900 or visit their website duinepos.co.za.

SAN Parks cottages and houseboats

Looking for a nature retreat? SAN Parks cottages and houseboats are a great choice. These self-catering accommodations can sleep four to eight people comfortably. The rates start at R1,105 per person, and there is an additional park fee of R40 per person. During the flower season, the park fee can go up to R56 per person. However, Wild Card holders can enjoy free entry. To book your stay or find out more, give them a call at Tel 022 772 2144 or visit their website sanparks.co.za.

Exploring the Lambert’s Bay Loops

So, I started my journey from Langebaan and headed north towards Velddrif and Dwarskersbos. My objective was to find a coastal route that would offer me breathtaking views. As I drove, I couldn’t help but notice the vast, treeless fields stretching towards the Piketberg Mountains on the east. The coastline, on the other hand, seemed flat and featureless, with low dunes concealing the sea from the road.

And then, I stumbled upon something interesting. It was the old Spoornet service road, making its first appearance on my journey. This road intersects the tarred road, creating a unique experience for travelers like me. The road is divided into two loops, with the first loop taking you from Velddrif to Elands Bay, and the second loop from Elands Bay to Lambert’s Bay.

Now, I have to tell you something important. These loops may not always be open to the public. The authorities have the power to close them at any time. When I visited the area, they were accessible to everyone, but things may have changed since then. However, don’t worry if they are closed. You can still reach Lambert’s Bay and Lutzville by taking the main tarred road.

When you have the loops open, you’ll need to stop at checkpoints along the way, but don’t worry – it’s free and won’t take up much time. These loops follow the main road for about 100 kilometers, running parallel to it. We were able to easily switch between loops depending on how close they were to the sea. Loop two, which starts just outside of Elands Bay, allowed us to avoid a long detour to Leipoldtville. Just be sure not to miss the boom control as you drive east out of town. However, keep in mind that most of the accommodation options are located on the main coastal roads. There’s a luxurious four-star lodge called Draaihoek Lodge that’s located halfway between Dwarskersbos and Elands Bay. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, there are some self-catering and camping choices available on the R365, south of Lambert’s Bay.

If you’re ever in the area on the weekend, Muisbosskerm is the place to be. This restaurant by the beach only opens when they have enough reservations, but it’s totally worth it. For just R210, you’ll get a feast of grilled seafood and traditional West Coast sides that will leave you feeling satisfied. And if you’re a fan of crayfish, you can add a half for just R45 more. They even have a convenient campsite and cottage right across the street if you want to stay the night.

When you think of the West Coast, one of the things that immediately comes to mind is the amazing seafood it has to offer. And if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, then you’ll absolutely love visiting Muisbosskerm, located south of Lambert’s Bay.

Where to stay south of Lambert’s Bay

If you’re planning to stay in the area, you have a couple of great options:

Draaihoek Lodge offers comfortable B&B rooms starting at just R750 per person per night sharing. It’s a great option for those who prefer a more traditional accommodation experience. You can contact them at Tel 022 952 1170 or visit their website draaihoek.com for more information.

Muisbosskerm offers both camping stands and a cozy two-sleeper cottage. If you’re the adventurous type, you can go for the camping option, where you can share a stand with up to four other people for only R225. But if you’re looking for a more private experience, the cottage is a perfect choice at R650 per night. For bookings and inquiries, you can reach them at Tel 083 370 0400 or visit their website muisbosskerm.co.za.

The wonderful coast to Groenrivier

When my friends and I arrived in Lambert’s Bay, we were unsure of our next destination. We had been following the Spoornet loop which took us north towards Doringbaai, but from there, our plan to stay close to the coast was in jeopardy. The tarred R362 road at Doringbaai led east towards Lutzville, leaving us with no clear options to continue along the coast.

Feeling a little lost, we decided to take a break and stop at the Weskus Kombuis near the harbor. As we sat down to enjoy a delicious meal of fish and chips, I couldn’t help but share our predicament with the friendly owner. To my surprise, he had just the solution for us.

Rummaging through a pile of papers on his desk, the owner pulled out a worn-out photocopy of a 4×4 trail map. It was a real gem, despite barely being legible. He explained that it was his last copy, but he trusted us to make good use of it. With a smile, he handed it over to us, and we couldn’t have been more grateful.

As we examined our slightly worn-out trail map from the Weskus Kombuis, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of adventure. “Keep an eye out for a left turn to Platskraal off the R363,” our guide advised with a grin. “You might need to open a few gates, but if you follow the signs to the Tormin mineral mine, you’ll be back on the coast in just a few hours.” Intrigued, we decided to capture a photo of the map to ensure we didn’t lose our way. With bellies full of fish and a renewed determination, we embarked on our drive towards Lutzville, then further north along the R363.

When exploring south of the Groenrivier, having a 4×4 vehicle is not absolutely necessary. However, it is advisable, particularly during or after rainfall. Once inside the park, a 4×4 becomes essential.

This is the ultimate route to take along the west coast. Over the course of 90 kilometers, we were treated to the sight of beautiful sandy coves, one after another, as we leisurely drove along the winding jeep track. As we ventured inland, vast hectares of farmland stretched out before us. Yet, this narrow strip of untouched coastline remains one of the few locations in South Africa where you can freely camp on your own stretch of beach. If you wish to visit the various small beaches in the area, rough tracks provide access, so there’s no need to drive along the shore and risk harming the fragile ecosystem.

So there I was, exploring Gert du Toit-se-baai, Guestyns Se Gat, and Brand Se Baai, which we had conveniently marked on our trusty map. But after some careful consideration, my friends and I decided to venture just a bit beyond Malkopbaai. With a cooler of cold beers in hand, we staked our claim on a spot and set up camp. And you know what? It felt like finding our own little slice of heaven.

When I arrived at Malkopbaai, I was immediately struck by the breathtaking beauty of the beaches. The sand was a brilliant white, interrupted only by a few scattered rocks. As I walked along the shoreline, I couldn’t help but notice the large chunks of quartz that peeked out from between the mussel shells and kelp tubes.

Experience West Coast hospitality at its finest in the Namaqua National Park

The following day, around noon, I made my way over to the Namaqua National Park. As I entered the park through the gate, I was greeted with warm smiles and a genuine sense of hospitality. It was clear from the start that this was a place where visitors were truly welcomed.

However, it didn’t take long for me to realize that I had come unprepared for the adventures that awaited me in the park. As I handed over the entry fee of R30 per person, the friendly staff kindly inquired if I had a compressor. It was at that moment I realized just how important it was to be properly equipped.

We didn’t. The park official was puzzled when he saw us. But even more puzzled was Wickus Louw when he arrived at the parking lot five minutes later and found me deflating our tires with a mussel shell I had found. Wickus works for Chiefs Tented Camp and was busy setting up luxurious tented camps for the August/September flower season (there’s another one for a crayfish feast in December/January each year).

As soon as Wickus saw my feeble attempts, he warmly shook my hand and assured me that we should follow him back to his camp for some much-needed equipment. He had it all: a compressor, a tire gauge, multi-tools, hitches, a tow rope, and even a reflective vest. Before long, a whole box of his essential 4×4 kit was in the back of our car, next to our worn-out festival tent and camping chairs.

“Hey, are you heading back this way?” Wickus asked as we hopped back into our car. “If not, no worries. Take my number and just drop it off in Cape Town when you’re finished.” We didn’t even know where in Cape Town he lived. Namaqua National Park marks the end of the untouched coastline before the devastation caused by mining further up north. Unlike the south, there aren’t as many bays or hilly landscapes here. Instead, the bushes are home to steenbok, replacing the sheep. Accessing the park’s basic bathrooms, small clusters of sites, and pristine beaches requires maneuvering through a sandy 4×4 track. It’s not the easiest journey, but it’s definitely worth it. The track took us through a vibrant sea of flowers, passing by tortoises and sharing the road with big, clumsy ostriches and their chatty, skittish chicks.

When I think about the South of the Groenrivier, I imagine sheep peacefully grazing along the coastline. But as soon as you step into the Namaqua National Park, the scenery changes. Instead of sheep, you’ll spot steenbok roaming around. It’s a different world, but equally captivating. Tyson Jopson captured this photo that perfectly captures the essence of the area.

I’m amazed by the biodiversity of Namaqualand. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind place in the world. Despite being arid, it boasts an incredible variety of plant species – over 1,000 out of the approximately 3,500 that exist here and nowhere else. The land may appear flat, but it’s far from lifeless. Everywhere you turn, there are creatures scurrying and hurrying, injecting the landscape with their energy.

In August and September, when the meadows are normally dull and colorless, they come alive with the vibrant beauty of daisies basking in the sun. It’s a sight to behold.

If you’re thinking of visiting Namaqua National Park, here are some great places to stay:

If you’re looking for a place that’s right in the heart of nature, then SAN Parks Groenrivier is the perfect choice for you. You can set up camp for just R116.15 per night, and there are six stands available. Don’t forget to pay the park fee of R30 per person, unless you have a Wild Card, in which case it’s free. To make a reservation, call 027 531 1015 or visit sanparks.co.za.

If you prefer something a bit more luxurious, you might want to consider Chiefs Tented Camps. Here, you can enjoy a comfortable stay with dinner, bed, and breakfast starting at R1 850 per person per night when sharing. For bookings, call 0861 010 200 or visit namaquacamps.co.za.

When I think about the wreck of the HMSAS Aristea, I can’t help but imagine how it must have been when the ship was still sailing these waters. It’s a hauntingly beautiful sight, located just south of Hondeklipbaai, and it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a peaceful evening while watching the sunset.

Getting to Hondeklipbaai

Have you ever wondered how to get to Hondeklipbaai? Well, let me tell you! The road leading to this hidden gem is filled with adventure and hidden treasures. As you make your way there, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. It’s truly a journey worth taking!

I’ve come across so many Namaqualand Tent Tortoises on this coastal stretch. Keep an eye out for them while driving.

We left the park and hit the road towards Hondeklipbaai. We made a stop to inflate the tires. To the west, a straight 15-kilometer stretch awaited us, leading us to the coast, where we could enjoy some delicious seafood and a refreshing cold drink. When we arrived at the beachfront just 20 minutes later, I immediately knew that the Dop & Kreef restaurant would meet all of our expectations. Hondeklipbaai has a small general store, a couple of restaurants, and a few guesthouses. Although the Honnehokke guesthouse is well-known and comfortable, our hostess for the night was Lohana Viviers, the owner of Dop & Kreef. She insisted on treating us to free shooters and an entire bowl of extra crayfish tails, which we could barely finish.

When I was led to the self-catering cottages (priced at R450 for the twin room), I couldn’t help but feel relieved that we didn’t have to travel much further. Our original goal may have been the town, but as the days went by, I came to realize that the entire West Coast had become our true destination.

What mattered most on our five-day trip was not reaching Hondeklipbaai, but the countless little coves, campsites, and fascinating individuals we encountered along the way. Whether it was finding a harbour-side fish ‘n chip shop for lunch or stumbling upon a secluded beach for a leisurely stroll, the journey itself had become the highlight.

My only gripe about West Coast hospitality is how difficult it is to resist. And so, the next morning, we reluctantly embarked on our journey back home. But before we could continue, we had a quick stop to make to drop off some equipment with Wickus.

Choosing Your Accommodation in Hondeklipbaai

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Hondeklipbaai, there are a few options that you should consider. Let me introduce you to two fantastic choices that offer comfortable and affordable accommodations:

The Honnehokke
Rates: Ranging from R550 per night, the Honnehokke offers cozy cottages that can comfortably sleep three to six people. With its affordable rates and convenient location, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy all that Hondeklipbaai has to offer. To make a reservation, you can contact them at 082 564 5471 or visit their website at honnehokke.co.za.

Dop & Kreef self-catering cottages
Rates: Starting at R450 per night, Dop & Kreef provides charming twin-sleeper cottages. These cozy accommodations are perfect for couples or solo travelers looking for a peaceful and affordable stay. For more information or to make a reservation, contact them at 083 281 8327.

With these fantastic options in mind, you can find the perfect accommodation for your stay in Hondeklipbaai. Whether you prefer a spacious cottage at the Honnehokke or a cozy twin-sleeper at Dop & Kreef, you’ll have a comfortable and affordable place to call your home away from home.

As I gaze out over Hondeklipbaai’s horizon, the beauty of the sunset takes my breath away. The colors, vibrant and warm, seem to dance across the sky, painting a picture that words fail to capture.

Emergency numbers along the West Coast

When it comes to emergencies, it’s crucial to have the right numbers at your fingertips. Here are some essential contacts to keep in mind:

SAN Parks Groenrivier Office: 027 531 1015

Police Hondeklipbaai: 027 692 3008

Police Garies: 027 652 1010

Hospital Garies: 027 652 8100

Local ambulance: 10177

Netcare ambulance: 082911

ER 24: 084124