WE LOVE THE MOUNTAINS WITH A PASSION

My Photo
MCGREGOR, WESTERN CAPE, South Africa
ONVERWACHT FLORA ACCOMMODATION AND EAGLE'S NEST GUESTHOUSE is situated high in the Riviersonderend Mountains at Die Galg and Boesmansklooftrail halfway between the twin villages of McGregor and Greyton. ONVERWACHT AND EAGLE'S NEST offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. a 2h Drive from Cape Town via Worcester via Robertson and McGregor brings you to what is often described as"The road to Nowhere". This nature,s lover,s paradise is situated at the famous "BOESMANSKLOOF HIKING" TRAIL and "THE GALG" .Those who wish to do so can hike the 16km to Greyton or otherwise you can take our own private hiking trails at ONVERWACHT AND EAGLE'S NEST with mountainstreams,waterfalls and natural rockpools. You do not need a permit to hike on ONVERWACHT AND EAGLE,S NEST. The towns Greyton,McGregor,Ashton,Bonnievale,Robertson etc.are visible from the bungalows. The lights of the visible towns are a spectacular picture at night. The sunrise in the east is a breathtaking must for all the early birds!!! The sunset in the west has the prettiest colours you can imagine!! JAPIE CELL: 082 894 1462 SANDRA CELL: 072 514 4207 LANDLINE: 023 625 1667

A Waterkloof Journey

Waterkloof is a pristine oasis situated in the heart of the massive Riviersonderend Mountains. You will find the turn off to the beautiful Waterkloof between the small town McGregor and "The Road to Nowhere" where Onverwacht Accommodation and Eagle's Nest Guesthouse are situated.

The gravel road, 1 - 2 grade, stretches for about 2km from the main road to the Kloof and can only be taken on with 4x4 vehicles, by foot or by mountain bike. At the Waterkloof turn off you will see stretched out mountain ranges and fynbos which are pleasing to the eye. Beautiful klipspringers and grysboks graze peacefully (if it is your lucky day) as long as they are not disturbed.

With the twist of the road when you reach the beautiful Wabome you become aware of the masses white river stones which gives reason to believe that there might be water somewhere. Thick growth of ferns, reeds and fynbos becomes more and more visible.

It is then when you are suddenly met sneak previews of a stretched out river between the green flora. Moving nearer, the sound of the flowing water becomes more audible. Waterkloof's water comes from a south western direction from fountains and rain water during the rainfall season. The river flows in a north easterly direction to a reservoir. It is a constantly flowing river.

The trail ends approximately 50m after the river (shallow enough) has been crossed. There is enough space on the riverbed to turn back to the main road where the trail started.

If you want to call it quits and return home you can just turn around and follow the trail to the Waterkloof direction board. However, extending your visit with a nice picnic can be a relaxing option, so remember to bring your picnic basket, chairs, blanket and sun umbrella - it might just come in handy. For the adventurer in you, there is a nice ±4km walking trail challenge along side the river. The river reaches far to the left and right of the ravine as far as the eye can see.

Due to erosion the river bank has been calved away during the years forming natural river pools which dare you to take a swim. The overhanging mountains are dressed in colours that leaves you speechless.

The quiet of the Kloof is often deafening. The only sounds audible, is that of the enthusiastic birds playing between the running river streams, green reeds and high mountain rocks throwing a refreshing shadowy areas. Fresh water fish such as ...... can be found. Guest have had successful attempts at catching a fish or two.

No fires are allowed in Waterkloof. Please leave Waterkloof as pristine as you found it and respect our fauna and flora.

Enjoy your excursion and visit to Onverwacht Flora and Eagle's Nest.


Sent via my BlackBerry from Vodacom - let your email find you!

Guests-Onverwacht-Kliphuisie

Hi Sandra & Japie
 
We had a lovely weekend in the kliphuisie, truly romantic and so so beautiful. I nearly geplatzed when I woke up and saw the view !!
Next year we will be selling again and would like to, if possible, make a provisional booking for 3 nights. Thurs, Fri & Sat. I know the price might change as it is next year but please make a note. I will be there.
 
Thank you so much for allowing us to experience the beauty of the place.
 
Charlene & Udo

Sent via my BlackBerry from Vodacom - let your email find you!

Inside info of Onverwacht Cottages

Onverwacht Flora Cottages(7) Tariffs:
•R100 p.p.p.n
•Children under 12: R50 p.p.p.n
All the bungalows are named after famous fynbos species - the pride of Onverwacht:

•Blushing Bride (Stone cottage): Sleeps two guests in a double bed;
•Speldekussing (Annex): Sleeps two guests;double bed
•Compacta (Annex): Sleeps two guests; 2 singlebeds
•Erica (Mountain cottage): Sleeps eight guests;
•Sewejaartjie (Mountain cottage): Sleeps eight guests;
•Repens (Mountain cottage): Sleeps eight guests;
•Exemia (Mountain cottage): Sleeps eight guests
. Facilities/Services:
•All units are self-catering;
•They all have an indoor shower and toilet;
•All units are fully equipped with crockery, cutlery and cookware;
•All units have a two plate gas stove,fridge and gas geysers
•No electricity: Oil lamps,rechargeble light and candles are provided;
•Guests must please bring their own bedlinen and towels (linen and towels may be provided on request at an extra cost);
•All units have their own private outside braai (barbeque) facilities; and inside fireplaces for the cooler evenings.



Sent via my BlackBerry from Vodacom - let your email find you!

Inside Info of Eagles Nest Guesthouse

Costs. R250p.p.p.n. Minimum of 2p.p.n R800.
Rooms
This self-catering guest house boasts four double bed bedrooms each with an en-suite (shower and toilet).  Every room is named after an African eagle and equipped with linen and towels.  The rooms are on the upper level of the guesthouse and access to a balcony with breath taking views over the gorge. A separate bedroom downstairs has two single beds also with en-suite (shower and toilet).
Open plan Lounge/Dining Room
Upon entering Eagle's Nest, your eyes are drawn to the glass sliding door which leads to the patio.  This unlocks an amazing view on the Riviersonderend Mountains and the natural rushing rock pools.  A 12-seater dining table ensures long hours of socializing. A Wonderful interior braai ensures that when the mountain evenings turn its cooler side, you will be cozily cared for in the Eagles Nest.
Kitchen
A big family kitchen with a wooden table ensures warmth that will make you feel right at home.  It is fully equipped with crockery, cutlery and other cookware as well as a fridge, microwave, stove and a toaster and of course the necessary electricity.  Exiting the kitchen door will hold yet another breath-taking disclosure.
Outside
What is better to enjoy the fresh mountain air, than to braai using the stone braai facilities? The swimming pool next to the braai is a bonus in the summer or after a long warm hike or just to relax in during your stay.

WHERE TO FIND...http://www.panoramio.com/photo/54891411

Eagle's Nest Guesthouse
The name Eagle's Nest is perfect chosen for this spectacular doublestory Stone Guesthouse nestled in the heart of the Riviersonderend Mountains between the twin villages between Greyton and McGregor. This is where the famous Boesmanskloof/Die Galg Trail ends from Greyton side and also starts on the McGregor side.

"Your life is what your thoughts make it." --Marcus Aurelius

Sent via my BlackBerry from Vodacom - let your email find you!

McGregor Food & Wine Festival 2012


Dear Wine lover
McGregor Food & Wine Festival 2012 - Advance notice

We are already hard at work putting together our famous food and wine festival. McGregor's 2012 Food and Wine festival should never be missed, and this year it's a must-do item on your spring calendar.
Serenade spring and join us in celebrating 150 years of village life. As always, it will be affordable, fun and informal. The cellars of the valley will pour delectable wines, the caterers and chefs will offer irresistible fare and the restaurants will create festival menus for the  weekend.
As village and valley mark a century and half of the founding of McGregor, the buzz will be palpable, the entertainment scintillating.  Did you know that McGregor now boasts an organic bubbly? Have you tried the pinot from Lord's, the delicious chenin from McGregor Winery, the brilliant red blend from Wolfdoring and the robust cabernet from Koningsrivier?
There's more, in the form of highly-rated grappa's - made from chardonnay, hanepoot and cabernet.  Tanagra also makes aromatic eaux de vies - think lemon, peach and apricot - and sip what is probably a world first, quince eau de vie. Finish your meal with a glass of apricot dessert wine from Kings River estate.
Whether you prefer gourmet fare or traditional padkos, there are talented chefs and cooks who will provide a mix of contemporary and traditional snacks, scrumptious bakes and excellent coffee.
Nature will, of course, play its role, as gardens are filled with birdsong, the veld blooms to brighten the path of those taking the popular Rooikat trail, and roadside orchards are a sea of pink and white.
Weekend guests should book beds early, as accommodation will be at a premium. Make space in your car boots, as you are likely take home cases of wine bargains as well as memories of warm country hospitality.
Date: Saturday September 1
Festival venue: NG church hall from 10am - 4pm
Entrance fee: R60 which includes tasting glass and wine tastings.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to us.
Kind Regards

Food and Wine Festival Committee
McGregor Tourism Bureau.
www.tourismmcgregor.co.za
foodwine@tourismmcgregor.co.za

P.S. We believe in word of mouth, please let your friends know about this bumper 150th year Food and Wine Festival.
Sent via my BlackBerry from Vodacom - let your email find you!

BOESMANSKLOOFHIKING TRAIL AND DIE GALG

PIETER VISSER AND HIS FAMILY
OPEN AFRICA WEBSITE
Take the N2 from Cape Town to Greyton. Alternatively follow the N1 from Cape Town to Worcester. From the N1 drive to Robertson (55 km) and then to McGregor (25 km).
Hike along the road to nowhere – The Galg Road. The original pass from McGregor towards Greyton leads up to the mountains and mysteriously disappears at the edge of a steep krantz.
Many local stories speculate about the reason why the road was never completed. In 1862 the village of McGregor was officially proclaimed and the land divided into 2.5-hectare plots and sold to 19 farmers who were under the impression that the road from Cape Town would pass through their village.
This never happened and neither did the planned road over the mountains through the Boesmanskloof Pass to Greyton – the road simply passes through the village and comes to an abrupt end.

INFO OF BOESMANSKLOOF TRAIL

Accommodation Japie and Sandra Oosthuizen
Onverwacht Flora and Eagle's Nest Accommodation
Landline:023 625 1667
Japie cell: 0828941462
Sandra cell: 0725144209
Boesmanskloof Trail
This 14km trail winds through the Riviersonderend Mountains in the Robertson Karoo region, and links the towns of McGregor in the north and Greyton in the South.
It passes through the Riviersonderend Conservation Area, which is a declared mountain catchment area comprised of State land and private property.
The trail may be hiked in one day, from either McGregor or Greyton, but a popular option is a 2-day there and back route. If you opt for the 1-way hike, It is important to arrange for transport. It starts just outside Greyton, while it starts approximately 14km south of McGregor at Die Galg. No overnight camping is allowed on the trail, but There is a municipal campsite in Greyton
The Boesmanskloof trail leads through spectacular Riviersonderend Mountains with steep gorges, large rock pools, waterfalls(The popular Oakes Falls) and lovely Cape wildflowers. At either end lie the lush Greyton and McGregor valleys. There is a great diversity of plant species with many different Protea and Erica and the stream cone bush and wild almond growing along the watercourses. Animals found in the area include the Duiker, Grey Rhebuck, Klipspringer, Baboon, Dassie, Spotted Genet and, rarely, Leopards. Birdlife includes the Black and Booted Eagle, Cape Sugarbird, Malachite Sunbird and others.
Physically the trail requires a reasonable degree of fitness as it continuously ascends, descends and contours the slopes of Boesmanskloof. This is winter Rainfall area (generally cold and wet) and the summer months are extremely warm and dry. Water may be required during the Summer months.
The Boesmanskloof Trail winds through the only gap in the rugged Riviersonderend mountain range. It is in the Robertson Karoo region of the south-western Cape. The trail links the small towns of McGregor in the north to Greyton in the south. It has become one of the most popular Trails in the Western Cape, Especially as the beautiful colonial-style town of Greyton lies at the one end.
The trial may be hiked within one day. It can be started from either McGregor or Greyton. While the trail lies just outside Greyton, it only commences 14 km to the south of McGregor at Die Galg.Hikers may often choose to walk the trail there and back (a total of 28 Km) and overnight in either of the two towns. Another delightful option is to Begin the trail at McGregor and walk to Greyton.No overnight camping is allowed on the trail. Because the trail requires between 4 - 5 hours to complete, there is plenty of time for swimming and enjoying the views.
See directions from Cape Town to Greyton. Alternatively from Cape Town follow the N1 to Worcester (about 100 km), turn fromThe N1 to Robertson (About 55 km) and from there to McGregor (about 25 km)
The main attractions along the route are the spectacular mountain scenery; large rock pools waterfalls and Lovely Cape Wildflowers. Highlights include Views of the majestic Riviersonderend Mountains, with their steep gorges and the lush Greyton and McGregor valleys. Water is Abundant in large rock pools.There is a great diversity of plant species - many different Protea and Erica species occur here. The stream cone bush and Wild almond grow along the Watercourses. Animals found in the area include the duiker, Grey roebuck, klipspringer, baboon, dassie and spotted genet. Leopard is very Rare. Among the birds, species Like the Black and booted eagle, Cape Sugarbird, malachite sunbird and other are found the hike is extremely popular among Tourists and City dwellers. It Are a total get-away and only one and a half-hours drive from Cape Town. Just being in Greyton and McGregor itself is a walkInto another world. The route is well marked, so you shouldn’t get lost.It’s popular on a hot summer’s day, so if you want to avoid the crowds, try the smaller chain of pools further downstream.Oakes’ fall is the main attraction on the Boesmanskloof Trail, and below it is one of the finest rock pools in the CapeThe rock pools, fynbos and views make the Boesmanskloof Trail in The Overberg a popular day hike. You could also stay over in a cottage and walk back the next day.
Distance: 14? Km one way.Time: +- 6 to 8 hours Best time of year: The trail is open all year round, but the best times to go are spring and autumn, when the temperature is Mild. Permit contact: Cape Nature reservations 021 659 3500; bookings@cape nature.co.za
Accommodation contact:
Japie and Sandra Oosthuizen
Onverwacht Flora and Eagle's Nest Accommodation
Landline: 023 625 1667
Japie cell: 0828941462
Sandra cell: 0725144209
THE ROAD TO NOWHERE
In 1862 the village was officially proclaimed and the land divided into 2.5 hectare plots which were sold by public auction To 19 farmers and smallholdersWho were told that the road from Cape Town would most probably pass through the village. This never happened, and neither did The planned road over theMountains through the Boesmanskloof Pass to Greyton - the road goes through the village and then.............. just stops.

MCGREGOR VILLAGE

http://www.tourismmcgregor.co.za/our-village.htm


ONVERWACHT FLORA ACCOMMODATION is situated high in the Riviersonderend Mountains halfway between the twin villages of McGregor and Greyton.
ONVERWACHT offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
a 2h Drive from Cape Town via Worcester via Robertson and McGregor brings you to what is often described as"The road to Nowhere".
This nature,s lover,s paradise is situated at the start of the famous BOESMANSKLOOF HIKING TRAIL and those who wish to do so can hike the 16km
to Greyton or otherwise you can take our own private hiking trails at ONVERWACHT with mountainstreams,waterfalls and natural rockpools.
You do not need a permit to hike on ONVERWACHT.
The towns Greyton,McGregor,Ashton,Bonnievale,Robertson etc.are visible from the bungalows.
The lights of the visible towns are a spectacular picture at night.
The sunrise in the east is a breathtaking must for all the early birds!!!
The sunset in the west has the prettiest colours you can imagine!!

Tree Agama; Bloukopkoggelmander on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Tree Agama; Bloukopkoggelmander on Flickr - Photo Sharing!