The West Coast is filled with exciting activities around every corner. This beautiful streak in our beloved country is dominated by beaches, undisturbed fynbos and adventures for all age groups. Yzerfontein, the pearl of the West Coast, is a one hour drive from Cape Town and has some incredible experiences on offer.
Whether you want a weekend getaway with your family, friends, pets or a significant other, we have created the ultimate Yzerfontein bucket-list to ensure that you get the most out of this little gem.
HORSE RIDING ON 16 MILE BEACH
Kicking off our list is an experience of a lifetime. Saddle up for horseback riding on our beloved 16 Mile Beach. West Coast Horse Trails offers a guided tour between 1 to 2 hours and accommodates ages 6 years and up. Bring along your sunscreen, sturdy shoes and long pants for riding. Important to know: There is a minimum of 1 person or maximum of 4 people per booking. If there is only one person the minimum riding time is 2 hours. Helmets are mandatory and are provided.
Operating hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 11am – 8pm; Sunday: 11am – 4pm
PICNIC ON THE MAIN BEACH
Order a picnic basket filled with fresh local produce and enjoy a West Coast sunset. Vivianas’s Gourmet Kitchen is a catering service that offers everything from platters to desserts. Grab a bottle of wine from Darling Cellars on your way into Yzerfontein and have a picnic for kings on the main beach.
Contact details: 076 833 0074
!KHWA TTU TEA TASTING
Rediscover South African history while enjoying a Herbal Tea Tasting at !Khwa ttu. This tasting (sourced from local plants) and San Language session is not only educational, but it is also a celebration of a profound South African culture. Book here.
Duration: 45 minutes
WINE TASTING AT BLAKE’S FAMILY WINE
Driving into Yzerfontein, you will find this little gem on the side of the R315. You can enjoy a relaxed lunch with a wine tasting on the outside veranda, or you can have a cellar experience. This lovely wine tasting includes seven of their best wines for R55. Plus, they have amazing pizzas too!
Operating hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 11am – 6pm; Sundays: 11am – 4pm
PASTRIES/ARTISAN BREAD AT ROSEMEAD BAKERY
This is a great pitstop if you are in the mood for something sweet or savoury. Rosemead’s Bakery has an open kitchen, so you get to witness the kneading, preparation and baking right in front of you. They have some of the best croissants, artisan breads and pastries in the Cape. We recommend the pastéis de natas.
Operating hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 8am – 8.30pm; Sunday: 8am – 2pm
SCHAAP ISLAND TRAIL WALK
This lovely trail takes you all along the coast of Yzerfontein. On the trail you will discover a number of bird species, benches to rest while looking out onto the beautiful ocean or just enjoy the spectacular sunsets. Bonus: you will find the stunning Duiwenes and special marked places. This little open cave is best during low-tide so that you can walk through it and put your feet in the water.
WEST COAST PADSTAL
For a great afternoon out go to the West Coast Farm Stall. You will be blown away by the gift store and there is a beautiful bird sanctuary you can wander through. The restaurant serves some delicious dishes like a traditional bobotie, fish and chips, and a selection of toasties and pies. Play area outside for the kids as well.
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 8am – 5pm
THE BEWAREA LABYRINTH
The labyrinth is a perfect spot for a panoramic view of the southern edge of Yzerfontein overlooking Pearl Bay and Dassen Island. You can walk the labyrinth on your own or with other people. The circular path leads from the entrance to the centre and back again. This is great for all ages, because unlike a maze, you can’t get lost.
BEER TASTING AT YZER BRU
This little brewery is quite popular amongst locals. It is situated next to Rosemead’s Bakery and has some excellent craft beer and a fantastic vibe. There are six different beers on tap that you can enjoy all in one tasting. They also have some great food to enjoy with your cold beverage.
Operating hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 11am – 8pm; Sunday: 11am – 4pm
THE BABY POOL
This is a great spot to take the kiddies. The baby pool is just off 9th Street and is a safe tidal pool for kids to splash around in. It’s close to the main beach and is surrounded by a quiet neighbourhood for them to ride bikes in the street. Pack your sunblock and let the kids play around.
If you want to tick off these bucket-list activities in one go, make a weekend or mini holiday of it. Check out some of our best accommodation options and enjoy your stay in Yzerfontein.
