Nuwerust Rest Camp – Koue Bokkeveld
The Koue Bokkeveld – translated to Cold Deer Field is a region in the Western Cape province of South Africa. The region is home to the Cederberg mountain range and offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in South Africa. We had the privilege to explore this region during a lovely summer’s weekend.
About two hours drive from Cape Town past towns like Tulbagh, Ceres and Dorp op die berg (Town on the Mountain) the road takes you through a number of spectacular mountain passes. Ceres is the last big town you’ll pass so be sure to stock up on any last-minute supplies you may have forgotten. The town of Ceres is a hub for the local fruit industry and a large part of the local population is employed on farms in the area. We passed the town on payday, with many local queuing at ATMs to draw their monthly wages. Things move slower here.
A few kilometres after Dorp op die berg tar road turns to a dirt road and the feeling of adventure sets in almost immediately. We inched our way up the mountain behind trucks carrying produce from the area and empty pallets returning from the distribution houses close by.
We stayed at Nuwerst Rest Camp run by Steven and Louise. Steven is a friendly down to earth person that’s always willing to explain and elaborate on the area. Years of manual labour can be seen on his face which is always smiling. Upon arrival Steven, with his dogs in tow, took us around the camping area and explained all the sites’ pros and cons to consider. We ended up with a large shaded stand with soft green grass throughout. Only one other couple shared the camp with us. This is such a contrast to modern holiday resorts where check-in processes feel almost machine-like.
Nuwerust Rest Camp is situated in the Breëkrans River Valley, surrounded by majestic southern Cederberg mountains. The farm offers a number of hiking routes, sport and trad climbing routes, cycling tracks and a farm dam converted into a cool blue swimming pool. All routes on the farms can be explored free of charge and maps are available at the office.
The farm is central to other activities in the Cederberg mountain range. To assist you in making a decision we have compiled a list of our top 5 things to do while visiting on a weekend. Most of the places of interest are managed by Cape Nature which requires you to purchase a permit before visiting. Visitors with a Wild Card can access these places at no cost. The office Nuwerust has all the necessary passes available for purchase. The latest price can be found on the Cape Nature Website.
If you are planning to escape the city this weekend, give Nuwerust and the Cederberg Mountains serious consideration. The remoteness, silence and proximity to raw nature will leave you feeling refreshed and reenergised. Be sure to pack your camera as the area presents some of the most picturesque locations in Southern Africa.
