Heading for the Cederberg mountain range from Cape Town to the Koue Bokkeveld, brings renewed appreciation for the wherewithal of agricultural living. And so, also an ideal way to re-discover the beauty of unpolluted skies with friends in need of putting to the test their newly ground 150mm telescopic lens recently returned from Sutherland. What marvellous discovery also, for non astronomy amateurs, who felt useful in lining up stars and planets with the help of the latest android cellular software.
However, going the extra mile to the Kagga Kamma Private Game Reserve located on the Swartruggens mountain range across mountain passes and dirt roads, also brought perspective to the value of agricultural land, the lifestyle of property owners and residents, all making a living from farm related industries, amid treacherous terrain and extreme seasonal weather conditions.
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In addition was the opportunity to view valuable live stock, crops and vineyards against many a scenic backdrop in this region, while making way along challenging mountain passes most popular during winter months for snow viewing. Farmers, business owners and labourers here all compete for a share of the market of quality export produce including meat, wine, fruit and related products.
Undoubtedly a highlight of the trip toward the Warm Bokkeveld is travelling from the city’s mild Mediterranean climate, via the N1 toward the Boland wine region. After passing some restored blockhouses, originally built for the protection of railway lines during times of war, one reaches the picturesque town of Wellington. In addition to the town’s beautifully preserved architecture and restored heritage sites, as well as wine and private residential estates, is the new training ground of agricultural and viticulture students at the Cape University of Technology.
Crossing the spectacular Bainskloof mountain pass over stretches of pristine terrain and small pockets of residential areas is the town of Ceres, also known as an all year round hub of agricultural activity. Prospective buyers are offered an interesting mix of properties, ranging from extensive to medium size farms and small holdings, to traditional large family homes and guest houses located just off the main street, not far from public amenities.
Currently for sale in Ceres are two four bedroom houses, each priced at R1.5-million and R1.7-million, plus several vacant stands, ranging in price from R435 000 for a 774m2 plot, and a 991m2 plot priced at R650 0000. A thirteen-bedroom, plus thirteen bathroom guest-house in central Ceres is currently on the market at R6.5-million. For prospective farmers, a private Karoo type game and livestock farm named Kareekolk, measuring 2 344 hectares with farmhouse and labourer’s cottage, is currently listed on the market for R3-million. To own a piece of land not far from here, in the small village of Prince Alfred’s Hamlet, is a plot measuring 646m2 plot available for purchase at the total sum of R172 000.
From setting out to enjoy the offerings of an unspoilt skyline at night, also came the viewing of the ancient rock art of the Khoi San people, some of the earliest inhabitants of this region. And watching wild life roaming around arid land so perfectly lined with colourful rock formations, was a bonus.