Cederberg
OVERVIEW
Cederberg Mountains: Wilderness within reach…
The Cederberg Mountains lie 2½ hours north of Cape Town and the Winelands. Yet this is like no other area of the Western Cape. Here, there are no manicured gardens, glitzy shops or boldly- marketed attractions teeming with tourists. Rather, you experience a raw, rugged beauty and a sense of peace and tranquillity. The Cederberg feels like it is far away. But in fact it is surprisingly easy to get to. It is truly wilderness within reach.
As you arrive in the Cederberg, you realise the landscape has changed. It’s wilder and warmer. The Cederberg Mountains, brilliant purple in the late afternoon light, tower over the fruit-filled valley which is laden with the scent of orange blossom in the spring.
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Why we love it
Spectacular Views
Untamed wide open spaces and spectacular views
Beautiful Nature
Famous for its hiking, unusual rock formations, Bushmen rock art & stunning spring flowers
Great Bouldering
One of the world’s top 5 bouldering destinations
Wine Region
Up-and-coming wine region
OUR
Cederberg Lodge
Into the wilderness, out of the ordinary…
Cederberg Ridge is a luxurious wilderness lodge offering delicious food, warm hospitality, and adventure. Enjoy panoramic views over the natural rugged beauty of the Cederberg Mountains and the range of excursions and activities we offer.
A stylish ‘away-from-it-all’ experience, yet it’s only a 2½ hour scenic drive from Cape Town or the Winelands.
LoCATION
Getting to the Cederberg…
It takes an easy 2½ hours from Cape Town or the Winelands to get to Clanwilliam in the northern Cederberg (all on well-maintained tarred roads).
Similarly, Swellendam and Robertson (great stopping points for the Garden Route) are only 3 to 3½ hours away. Whilst the West Coast (Paternoster and Langebaan) is only 2 hours away.
For exact driving directions to Cederberg Ridge Wilderness Lodge, see How to Get There on our lodge page.
Closest Airport
Cape Town
Drive time from Cape Town
2½
Hours
Dry Season
Nov/Mar
Wet Season
May/Aug
(sporadic & low rainfall)
Best Time to visit the Cederberg
If you are a sun-lover then the Cederberg climate is for you! We have a much warmer climate than Cape Town, even though we are only 2½ hours’ north. Plus our winter climate is also noticeably warmer and drier. But we do have big seasonal differences…
Summer in the Cederberg
Our summers are hot, but dry, (so you don’t get sticky!) Perfect for the northern Hemisphere visitor keen to get some sun. If you want to be active, the ideal is to get up early, then come back for a late breakfast/brunch, and then do something less strenuous in the morning. In the afternoons you can relax around the pool or in your suite.
It generally cools down pleasantly in the evening and you can dine outside throughout the summer months. The Cederberg climate in early summer (November to December) tends to be less hot than January and February. Average daytime temperatures are typically 30-38°c. Evening temperatures are 25-30°c.
Some days can be very hot. But you can always either head up into the mountains where the higher altitude lowers the temperature. Or you can head to the Atlantic Coast. As, even though it is only 40 mins drive away, the sea breeze makes it remarkably cooler. It is usually only 25-28°c in summer..
Autumn for the Active
Our spring and autumn months are our favourite time of year. The day time temperatures are warm to hot, but you can still be active. The evenings are cooler but you can dine outside as long as you’ve got something warm to put on. Average daytime temperatures are typically 24-30°c. Evening temperatures are 15-20°c.
Daytime temperatures are such that hardy people try a dip in the pool. But we’ve built a heated pool at Cederberg Ridge to make the most of this time.
Winter sunshine
There is a lot going for the winter climate in the Cederberg. Daytime temperatures can reach a pleasant 20-24°c, (much warmer than Cape Town!) So you can be active for the whole day, and still enjoy sitting outside for lunch. But our mornings and evenings are cold so this is the time for a long lie-in in bed, and red wine around the fire in the evening. Thus usually our activities start after breakfast. We are still a winter rainfall region, (like all of the Western Cape), so it can rain for a day or two. But we are officially a semi-arid region (less than 200mm per year) so you’re not likely to see much rain.
See our article on Reasons to Visit in Winter
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Spring flowers & fynbos
Spring is one of the best times to visit. The day time temperatures are warm, rather than hot, so you can still be active. As with most Spring weather, it can be quite variable, with some cooler days, some rain perhaps and some warmer days.
Early spring (August and early Sept if you are lucky) is the time of the wild spring flowers. Later on, the fynbos continues to flower into October. And everything is green, compared to the Mediterranean dryness of summer.
HIGHLIGHT 1
Unique in the Cape
We think that the Cederberg is the most African in feel of all the Cape destinations. What do we mean by that? Cape Town and the Winelands have a slightly Mediterranean feel to them. The Whale Coast and Garden Route are lush and verdant. They are all stunning destinations to visit. But the Cederberg feels very different even though it is only 2 hours to the north. Much wilder, much hotter, and very few people.
HIGHLIGHT 2
Amazing Hiking
The Cederberg Mountains rises majestically above the vineyards and citrus groves of the Oliphants River valley. There are a number of stunning hiking trails in the Cederberg.
HIGHLIGHT 3
Rock Art
The Khoi-San were the first inhabitants of Southern Africa, present from the Stone Age. For many thousands of years, the so-called Khoisan (in fact, several tribes of both hunter-gatherers and herders) were the largest human population on earth. Much of what we understand of the culture and beliefs of these indigenous people comes from paintings and engravings hidden in the landscape.
With some 2,500 documented rock art sites, the Cederberg is one of the best area in world to see some of their ancient rock paintings. These are usually to be found in lower-lying areas close to rivers often in caves or deep overhangs.
HIGHLIGHT 4
Bouldering
The northern Cederberg, which is where Cederberg Ridge is situated, is one of the top 5 areas for bouldering in the world.
The epi-centre of the bouldering sites is Rocklands which lies approx 15 minutes easy drive from us. The best time for bouldering is May to August as this is our winter time so the days are usually sunny and warm. But not too hot.
Check out our article about Bouldering at Rocklands in the northern Cederberg
HIGHLIGHT 5
Spring Flowers
The northern Cederberg makes a great base to visit the wild spring flowers which bloom on mass during August (and early September if you are lucky.) The best displays are to be found in the Biedouw valley, the Doring River and Nardouwsberg which are all a scenic drive from Simbavati
HIGHLIGHT 6
Wine Tasting
The Cederberg is also an up and coming wine region, with a number of boutique wine estates joining the more established Cederberg Cellars. You can visit some of these wine estates, either en route to us. Or during your stay. Kromrivier, Cederberg cellars and Driehoek are all in the high Cederberg. Whilst Tierhoek and Piekenierskloof are en route to us. Yet more wine estates are to the north.
HIGHLIGHT 7
Rooibos
Rooibos is a major industry in the Cederberg. The Cederberg also happens to be the only place in the world where rooibos tea can be successfully grown. So this healthy caffeine & tannin-free tea is exported throughout the world to Europe, Japan and the USA for example. You can enjoy a Rooibos farm tour with us, or visit the House of Rooibos in nearby Clanwilliam.
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- Maltese Cross Trail: A moderate 6-hour round trip, this trail leads to the iconic Maltese Cross rock formation.
- Wolfberg Arch and Cracks: A more challenging 8-hour trek, offering awe-inspiring views of the Cederberg and a visit to the colossal Wolfberg Arch.
- Stadsaal Caves Trail: A relatively easy hike that takes you to the ancient Stadsaal caves, where you can admire San rock art.
Stadsaal & Cederberg Cellars
For those interested in history and a touch of indulgence, a visit to the Stadsaal caves is a must. These caves hold well-preserved San rock paintings, depicting life in the region thousands of years ago. Adjacent to this historical site is Cederberg Cellars, a boutique winery that produces excellent wine. Set within a picturesque vineyard, visitors can enjoy wine tasting against a dramatic mountain backdrop. The cellar produces wine varieties that thrive in the unique climate, such as Shiraz and Chenin Blanc.
Sevilla Rock Art Trail
This 5 km trail along the Brandewyn River allows hikers to explore some of the best-preserved rock art in Southern Africa. The trail includes nine sites where you can view paintings made by the San people, some of which date back 8,000 years. The artwork is thought to depict their spiritual beliefs and daily life.
Spring Wildflowers & the Biedouw Valley
From August to September, the Cederberg transforms into a colorful tapestry of wildflowers. The Biedouw Valley is one of the prime spots for viewing this spectacular display, with an array of daisies, bulbs, and other indigenous blooms carpeting the landscape. It's a dream for photographers and nature lovers alike, offering incredible views of the flowers with the dramatic Cederberg Mountains in the background.
Muisbosskerm Restaurant
For a uniquely South African culinary experience, head to Muisbosskerm, one of the most famous outdoor seafood restaurants in the country. Set along the West Coast, it offers a casual, feet-in-the-sand dining experience with freshly caught seafood cooked over open fires. The menu often includes local delicacies like snoek, mussels, and crayfish, served in a relaxed and rustic environment.
Wupperthal Mission Village
Wupperthal is a historical village founded in 1830 by German missionaries. Nestled in the remote Cederberg Mountains, the village is known for its well-preserved Cape Dutch architecture and rich history. Visitors can explore the old mission church, the cemetery, and the village’s leather factory, which produces hand-made veldskoene (traditional South African shoes).
Clanwilliam Town & Museum
The town of Clanwilliam is one of South Africa’s ten oldest towns, brimming with heritage. Here you’ll find the Clanwilliam Museum, housed in an old jail, where visitors can learn about the region’s history, including the San people and early European settlers. The town is also the center of South Africa’s rooibos tea industry, so a visit to a rooibos farm or the Rooibos Tea House is highly recommended.
Weather in the Cederberg
The Cederberg enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
- Summer (December to February): Temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), making it perfect for early morning hikes and late afternoon relaxation.
- Autumn (March to May): Cooler temperatures (15°C to 25°C / 59°F to 77°F) and fewer tourists make autumn an ideal time for hiking and sightseeing.
- Winter (June to August): Winter brings cooler temperatures (5°C to 18°C / 41°F to 64°F), with occasional rain, but it’s a great time for photography and exploring the caves.
- Spring (September to November): Wildflowers bloom across the region, making it one of the best times to visit. Temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
Staying at Cederberg Ridge
For visitors seeking luxurious yet nature-immersed accommodation, Simbavati Cederberg Ridge is a premier choice. Perched on a ridge overlooking the stunning Cederberg Mountains, the lodge offers panoramic views, stylish rooms, and exceptional hospitality. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including guided hikes, rock art tours, and stargazing, as well as indulgent spa treatments.
The lodge’s location provides easy access to major attractions like the Stadsaal caves, the Wolfberg Arch, and the wildflower-filled Biedouw Valley. After a day of exploration, you can unwind with a drink on the terrace or savor gourmet cuisine made with fresh local ingredients.
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Cederberg
What to Do in the Cederberg this Summer
- Temperature: Summer in Sedgefield is warm with average daytime temperatures ranging from 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C).
- Conditions: This is the peak tourist season, offering long, sunny days perfect for beach activities, hiking, and exploring the outdoors.
- Precipitation: Rainfall is relatively low during this season, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures.
Autumn (March to May)
- Temperature: Autumn sees a gradual decrease in temperatures, with averages between 59°F and 77°F (15°C to 25°C).
- Conditions: The weather remains pleasant, with fewer tourists, making it a great time to visit if you prefer a quieter experience.
- Precipitation: Rainfall starts to increase slightly, particularly in late autumn, but there are still plenty of dry days.
Winter (June to August)
- Temperature: Winter in Sedgefield is cool, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 66°F (10°C to 19°C).
- Conditions: This season is marked by frequent rain showers and cooler temperatures. However, sunny days are not uncommon.
- Precipitation: Winter is the wettest season, with regular rainfall contributing to the lush greenery of the area.
Spring (September to November)
- Temperature: Spring sees a rise in temperatures, with averages between 55°F and 75°F (13°C to 24°C).
- Conditions: This is a beautiful time to visit, with wildflowers blooming and the landscape rejuvenated after the winter rains.
- Precipitation: Rainfall decreases as the season progresses, leading to more dry and sunny days.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Sedgefield
Sedgefield has a small population, with approximately 8,000 residents.
Sedgefield enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild, wet winters. The average temperature ranges from 10°C (50°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer.
Sedgefield offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, birdwatching, paragliding, fishing, and water sports. The area is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as Myoli Beach and Swartvlei Beach.
Some notable attractions include the Sedgefield Market (Wild Oats Community Farmers’ Market), Gericke’s Point, and the Goukamma Nature Reserve.
Yes, the beaches in Sedgefield are suitable for swimming. Myoli Beach and Cola Beach are popular spots for swimming and other beach activities.
Sedgefield offers a range of accommodation options including guest houses, bed and breakfasts, self-catering units, and camping sites.
The area is rich in birdlife, with over 250 species recorded. You may also see small mammals, reptiles, and marine life along the coastline and in the nearby nature reserves.
Yes, there are several hiking trails in and around Sedgefield, including the popular Gericke’s Point hike and trails within the Goukamma Nature Reserve.
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