Attractions and Activities

There are many historical buildings to view for example the Smuts/Maritz office, the Waenhuis, the Opstal, and many more. For the adventurous people, there are also 4x4 routes and hiking routes that can be explored, The seasonal flower routes like candlestick lilies and yellow “katstert” flowers are to be seen on these routes.

Click here for a map of the attractions on the farm.

4x4 Trails

4x4 routes have been established and are in the process of being graded. These routes can be driven at own risk with 4x4 vehicles. Vehicles can also be rented on Willemsrivier. Guided tours are also available on request.There are four different routes available: Rooigrond, Oshoek, Die Muur and Kromhoek. More information available on request. Routes can take from two hours to two days depending on experience and time available. Self catering accommodation is available on Willemsrivier. Another option is camping at the “trapvloer” which will be renovated in the near future. For the more nature lovers, camping at the 4x4 routes can also be arranged.

Hiking trails at Willemsrivier

Different hiking trails are available on Willemsrivier and its surroundings. Bring walking shoes, a camera and take along fresh water. Each hiking trail can be identified with a map, distance and the approximate time it can take to complete. Interesting information is also available on each trail e.g. On the trails hikers can see several interesting historic buildings, die exquisite flowers in flower season, indigenous bulbs and many more.

Flower trails

The flower season is a paradise for flower watchers. Beautiful, unique flowers and bulbs can be found at Willemsrivier (seasonal). Seasonal flower routes van be found here where you can see flowers like like candlestick lilies and yellow “katstert” flowers. Every year, from July to October, there is a different formula for the flowers as the weathers is different every year. You can see the flowers on the hiking trials as well as the mountain bike routes. Willemsrivier also boasts unique flowers that can only be found on the farm.

Mountain bike routes

Mountain bikers can explore the farm and area on several challenging as well as more comfortable routes. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh Namakwaland air while taking on the hills on this beautiful farm. The one they call the Oshoek - close to Ou Plaas, and the other one is the Rooigrond route. The Rooigrond roete is especially beautiful and looks like the playground for a giant because of the spectacular rock formations. The Oshoek route is more challenging and only for the adventurous. Enjoy the stunning scenery and the fresh Namakwaland air while you go biking in the hills.

Ouplaas

No trip is complete without a visit to Ouplaas. A selection of very old sandstone ruins van be viewed here. “A camera and walking shoes is a must.” Ouplaas is not far from Willemsrivier on the Grasberg road which is a gravel road which can be driven by normal car. It can also be reached by horse, bikes, cycling or walking for the active. Ouplaas is 13 km from Nieuwoudtville. The farm was one of the five 'square' farms in the area.

Activities on the farm

The Kotze family farms with meat, wool and Rooibostea. Visitors to the farm are more that welcome to watch the farm activities. Sheep shearing happens twice a year - in autumn and in August. February and August. It is really mesmerising to watch how quickly the shearers relieve the sheep of their thick coats. You can also expect very friendly and tamed animals during the duration of your stay at Willemsrivier.