Our lives came to an unexpected halt when COVID-19 hit South African shores and lockdown was implemented. Everything changed. Working and shopping patterns had to be altered, family and friend gatherings became non-existent, while all travelling plans became null and void.
In May 2020, we had planned an in-country camping trip which we had partially paid up, but of course, this was immediately cancelled. Our first-ever trip to Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway quickly shifted from reality to a dream. Needless to say, we were all gutted.
Fast-forward to May 2021, a year later. With the country now on alert level 1, we decided to check our booking with Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway. It was there, partially paid, but still standing.
So, we did a rewind, back to where we were a year before and quickly started prepping, planning and packing. Soon, we would finally be on our way to one of the most beautiful, picturesque camping sites in the Western Cape.
In the week leading up to the getaway, we checked what the weather would be like at the camp area that weekend – 60% chance of rain on the Friday, 90% for Saturday and 30% for Sunday. We did not let this deter us in any way, instead, our 20-strong group of campers made sure to be extra prepared. Off we went with our umbrellas, rain boots, a few gazebos, canvases and tarpaulins to save the day.
Route and Location
We travelled from Cape Town, through the Huguenot Tunnel toll which, after Paarl, took us through the scenic Du Toitskloof mountains. Once we were through the tunnel, we ended up in Rawsonville, a small wine and farming community in the Breede River Valley.
Before we headed onto the final stretch of road to the campsite, we stopped at a little filling station in Rawsonville to get steak pies and cheese sandwiches.
As we sat and ate, we witnessed the liveliness of the people of Rawsonville. Everyone was talking and laughing as they passed one another. We also noticed a little church, a supermarket, a clothing store, a liquor store and some coffee shops. This is the last little town you will encounter before you make your way into the mountains, so if you wish to get the last little bits of eats and treats for your weekend, this will be the perfect stop.
Once we left Rawsonville, we were able to reach Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway’s reception desk in a mere 20 minutes. When we had completed our online booking, we were given instructions and an access code to enter the campsite through a metal gate. Once through the gate though, it became a whole new world and it seemed like we were on the incorrect path.
To paint the picture, what awaits you is a long gravel road through the valley of the mountains. Not a soul in sight. Not a car in sight. Just you, your vehicle, the road and the mountain. It may seem a bit daunting at first, but it eventually transforms into a serene, calming, beautiful sight.
After travelling for some time, a final left turn led us to what looked like a mirage in the middle of the mountains. An oasis of lush green trees and grass surrounded a beautiful large building that serves as Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway’s reception area.
Checking-in and Accommodation
Once we checked-in at reception, we were given our plot number, and off we went. There are little green boards along the road with each plot number written on them. Keep your eyes peeled though, as you may just miss your number. As we drove along the road, we realized how far apart each campsite is from the other – which is perfect if you are looking for peace and quiet from adjacent campers.
Each plot, which is vast and can hold between 15 – 20 people, has the greenest grass, a permanent cement braai (barbecue) area, a portable braai as well as direct access to the river. We arrived on our plot and quickly started setting up the tents, multi-plugs, gazebos, tables and the rest.
Amenities
The amenities certainly needs its own special paragraph. These are, by far, the best camp facilities we have ever seen; and we have been to a fair amount of camping spots in our lifetime.
Unlike the majority of campsites we have visited in the past, at Dwarsberg, the toilet and showers are located directly on your plot, so no need to round up a troop and walk a fair distance should you wish to do a loo-run in the middle of the night. You can literally step out of your tent, walk a few metres and you are there.
The toilet, shower and basin are in a little comfy wooden cabin, and there are two such cabins on each plot. Since the weather was cold and rainy, every trip to the cozy little bathroom cabin was very welcoming each time. This was definitely one of the highlights of the camp site.
There are also two outside sinks, with hot running water which can be used to wash all your dishes and utensils.
Activities
Should you be keen on fly-fishing, this can be done at your campsite, since you are directly situated on the river bank. There are also various hiking trails to choose from, from 30-minute walks to four-hour hikes. For your own safety, before embarking on a hike, make sure you clear it with reception.
There is also a bistro and restaurant at the reception area, should you wish to get a bite to eat during your camp stay. Should you not be the adventurous tent-camping type, there are also cottages and pod-houses which can be booked.
Overall Experience
Just having the opportunity to set up our tent in the valley of the mountains was a surreal experience. This, coupled with waking up each morning to the smell of earthy rain and freshly made coffee was incredible and such a big difference to the lockdown life we have come to know.
Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway campsite is extremely vast, clean and pristine, and packed with outdoor activities. The campsite and journey that took us there was an experience all on its’ own. We will definitely be back, but next time, we will book in the summertime.
*This trip was taken a few months before the current level 4 lockdown.
