Feature image courtesy of @snowreportsa
Snow in South Africa remains a fascinating weather phenomenon. Maybe it’s because we’re used to mostly sunny skies and warm days. It’s a great adventure to go snow hunting in winter, and in Cape Town we’re lucky enough to have snow almost on our doorstep.
A quick road trip within a three-hour drive, and you can pretend for a moment that you’re driving somewhere in Europe. We’ve sourced the best places for you to see the exciting little white fluffy stuff.
Snow season differs every year but late June to late July you’re mostly guaranteed to see some good downfall. Good thing this period falls over the school holidays! Perfect excuse to stare in amazement at the snow-capped peaks. And there’s nothing more romantic than a weekend getaway to the snowy hills. The best way to stay in the loop with snow in South Africa, is Snow Report SA. They are also active on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. If you plan a trip over the weekend, there are great farm stays in the surrounding areas.
Best Places to See Snow in The Western Cape
There are four main areas in the Western Cape that consistently receive snow: Tulbagh, Ceres, Cederberg, and Worcester.
Tulbagh is the closest to Cape Town, an hour and bit drive away. The quaint little town has beautiful Cape Dutch homesteads, tucked away between the mountains. On its outskirts lies many farms. These scenic mountains and open fields are often transformed into a white wonderland in the winter season.
Ceres is a little bit further away, just over two-hours drive. The fruitful valley produces an array of fruits. The second highest peak in the province is found here and the South African Ski Club calls it home. The reserve located outside the picturesque town is perfect for snowman building, snowball fights, skiing, and snowboarding. But if you want to truly enjoy the snow, you need a 4×4 to access it.
Also about a two-hour drive away, you can hunt the snow in the Cederberg. In the summer time the region is infamously hot and dry. But in winter it boasts with beautiful bright-blue skies and snow-capped mountains. The region’s highest peak, Sneeuberg, always has a sprinkle of snow adorning it in the winter months.
Two and a half hours away, you can enter the wine valley to view snow and lush green pastures. The wine growing region stretching from Worcester to Robertson often boasts with snowy mountains in the winter time, even if it’s only on the higher peaks. You can keep yourself busy here for hours with wine tasting, trout fishing, and historical winter walks hosted in the town.
Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve
Where: Farm Erfdeel, Matroosberg, Breede River, Ceres
Most of the time during snow season, this is your best bet to see snow. The Matroosberg mountain range boasts with the highest peaks in the Western Cape. In a good winter season, you can access the snow with a regular car on the lower slopes. With a 4×4 you can make your way to the higher peaks to explore the deeper snow. The reserve has its own official ski slope and hut. There’s a wide range of accommodation options available in the area, something for every budget.
Klondyke Cherry Farm
Where: Breede River, Ceres
Situated on the other side of Ceres, this cherry farm is often powered white during winter. Sometimes it’s just the tips of the Matroosberg surrounding it, but in a good season the snow lies thick on the farm. The farm offers both camping and self-catering accommodation options.
Guinevere Guest Farm
Where: R46, Tulbagh Road, Tulbagh
This beautiful farm is ideal for an overnight stay on your way to the snow hunting. During high snowfall seasons you might wake up to a white wonderland, with the magnificent mountains as a backdrop. If not, you will be close enough to the other snow-rich areas a short drive from the town.
Mont Rouge
Where: Strekstroom Road, Tulbagh
Another great overnight option in the Tulbagh area. It’s centrally located to offer you the best chance of driving to see the snow in the surrounding areas. Often formidable peaks surrounding the farm is snow-capped in the heart of winter.
De Wilge
Where: Robertson
This guesthouse in the Nuy Valley used to be an 19th century wine cellar. It was revamped into two stunningly luxurious apartments. Looking out onto the magnificent Langeberg Mountains, it’s a great spot to celebrate your successful snowhunting endeavours.
De Pakhuys
Where: Clanwilliam
This spot is popular with hikers and rock climbers. Situated 26km from Clanwilliam on the way to Wupperthal village, it’s ideal for camping or glamping. Tucked away in the beautiful Agter-Pakhuis valley, it will give you the opportunity to savour the moment of your glorious snow hunting.
Goatherds House
Where: Matroosberg
It’s not every day that you get to stay in a hundred-year-old farm house. This immaculately restored humble abode is located at the foot of the Matroosberg Mountain, and it’s fitted with a few cosy comforts to heat you up during an icy winter moment.
Fairfield
Where: Ceres
Easily accessible from Ceres, this lovely mountain retreat is only 6km from the town. It is nestled between orchids, at the foot of the Skurweberg Mountains. Perfect spot to stay after you’ve visited the Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve.
Seven Oaks Vineyard Cottages
Where: Worcester
www.sevenoaksvineyardcottages.co.za
These self-catering cottages are situated on a 63-hectare active wine farm. Located in the Breede River Valley, the little cosy cottages offer you glorious mountain views.
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