Hugged by wildflowers and vineyards, you’ll find the sleepy town of Darling – a place filled with wonder and delight. If you’re looking for a short yet epic road trip to help you soak up the sun and wash away the winter blues, here are a few things to get up to the next time you take a trip to the West Coast.
1. Wildflowers, wildflowers, wildlfowers
Picture: Teagan Cunniffe
Nothing screams “spring” quite like visiting the West Coast when countless fields are blooming with wildflowers. It’s a special time in the Western Cape and this town is the perfect destination to celebrate the fauna and flora that our province is renowned for. To celebrate, they even host the yearly Darling Wildflower Show which celebrates the species of the Cape Fynbos Kingdom – magical!
If you’re a history buff looking to explore the Western Cape while getting your fill of 18th-century history, the museum is the perfect spot. It offers visitors the chance to time travel with different displays and a section dedicated to the history of Darling Butter and Darling Creamery.
- Location: 22 Pastorie Street
3. Have a drink at Darling Brew
Whether you’ve spent the day snapping wildflowers or indulging in history, you’re bound to get thirsty. Darling Brew is an acclaimed craft beer brand that has won numerous awards, including being recognised as Africa’s first carbon-neutral brewery.
- Location: 48 Caledon Street
4. A taste of something sweet: The Marmalade Cat
If you’re in the mood for good food (who isn’t), then head on over to Darling’s popular “The Marmalade Cat.” You’ll find homeware, gifts, clothing and a restaurant all rolled into one with delicious breakfast, lunch and pizza available at this eclectic spot.
- Location: 19 Main Street
It’s a travesty if you head to Darling and don’t visit the famous Evita Se Perron. Located at the old Darling Station, this spot was converted into an incredible theatrical experience by satirist, Pieter Dirk Uys and his alter ego Tannie Evita Bezuidenhout. This slice of theatrical heaven is a theatre, restaurant and bar.
- Location: 8 Arcadia Street
If your tastebuds are screaming for something other than craft beer, then make sure you visit the famous Darling Cellars for a sample of their incredible wines. The cool climate of the West Coast provides wines that have a lighter body, and higher acidity and offer a spicier taste – the perfect combination when enjoying Darling.
- Location: Mamre Weg Station, R315
7. Wheels of Time trail
The Wheels of Time Trail is one of five trails in the Cape West Coast Biosphere and offers glorious views of the West Coast which takes you from Mamre to Darling. It’s the perfect trail for recreational cyclists, however, it can prove to be challenging in some parts. The scenic route is a must if you’re looking to stretch your legs and challenge yourself.
8. !Khwa ttu San Heritage Site
The San people of Southern Africa deserve to be celebrated, and that’s exactly what you’ll get when visiting this heritage site. The culture and education centre offers incredible insight into the culture, heritage and knowledge of the modern-day life of these indigenous people as you explore the incredible surrounding landscape with a group of qualified San guides.
- Location: R27 West Coast Road, Yzerfontein/Darling
9. Take a hike
Darling provides a gorgeous landscape for nature lovers looking to breathe in some fresh air. Along with countless outdoor experiences waiting to be explored, it also has multi-day slackpacking trails. Spend the day exploring the scenic landscape and the breathtaking Cape West Coast Biosphere as you walk a range of trails, including the Darling Stagger.
Pictures: Courtesy of establishments
ALSO READ: Getting intimate with Velddrif, the capital of the West Coast
