De Doornkraal

Riversdale is the gem of the Garden Route, located a casual 3 hours drive from Cape Town along the N2 highway, and is the seat of the Hessequa municipality of Eden District.

Riversdale is a small, flourishing country town nestled between the Langeberg mountain range and the sea. It makes an ideal stop-over for exploring the countryside. Riversdale's location gives it the advantage of being in close proximity of the sea and the open spaces of the Klein Karoo, both a comfortable 25 minute drive away. The Klein Karoo can be reached via the scenic Garcia mountain pass adjacent to the famous Sleeping Beauty mountain peak. Riversdale serves as an ideal and safe base for day trips to explore the variety of natural beauty and places of interest; and the charming boutique hotel, De Doornkraal Historic Country House, is certainly where to stay.  From a travel and tourism perspective Riversdale's immediate surroundings offer majectic mountain scenery, and activities such as absailing alongside waterfalls, hang gliding, hiking trails, horse trails, fishing and golf. For 2010 Soccer World Cup visitors De Doornkraal Historic Country House offered the ideal stopover on the Garden Route. Riversdale, steeped in history and heritage, is located in a malaria free zone, 300 kilometres to the east of Cape Town and 450 km to the west of Port Elizabeth.  Being a rural town it has a small population of 6000 villagers.

Riversdale, Home of the Sleeping Beauty Mountain Peak and the Erica Blenna

This well-known landmark, which never fails to capture the imagination, has earned its name of the "Floral Paradise of the Garden Route" because of the abundance of indigenous flora that covers the mountains and surrounding areas.

Witness the richest floral kingdom in the world, Cape Fynbos, which includes Erica Blenna, a species unique to Riversdale. For this reason it is often referred to as the "Riversdale Orange Heath".The Erica Blenna is found on the lower southern slopes of the Sleeping Beauty mountain peak. This floral rainbow is in full bloom throughout the winter months (May - August). For more details click on "Attractions" in the main menu.

Farming

Farming activities include wheat, grain, livestock, dairy, wine, flower and honey bush tea production. The wine industry originated in the begining of the 18th century with the arrival of the French Huguenots in the area.

Riversdale is a town full of surprises and contrasts.  Experience the serenity of true country life, feel the caress of a fresh breeze, smell the fragrance of fynbos, and cherish the memories of sincere country hospitality.

Where tradition and diversity blend to form rich character, charm and culture.

Where old meets new.