Clanwilliam offers different ways to explore the area: the landscape at Ramskop Nature Reserve, the history of the Rooibos industry and experiences centred around Rooibos. There is also a historical walking tour, shoemaking and art classes for children. When planning your trip, consider whether you want to focus on nature, culture or Rooibos during your stay—each experience has its own distinct emphasis.
Hiking Trails, Views and Rock Art
At Ramskop Nature Reserve in Clanwilliam, there are well-marked hiking trails with scenic viewpoints overlooking the mountains and Clanwilliam Dam. If you are looking for a trail with a particular focus on views, this is a good option: the paths lead to viewpoints from which you can see the mountains and dam.
The Sevilla Rock Art Trail, 34 km from Clanwilliam, offers another nature and cultural experience. Along the five-kilometre trail beside the Brandewyn River are nine rock art sites. They are considered some of the finest examples of San rock art in the region. Hikers on the trail may encounter springbok, eland, small game, rock hyraxes and baboons, as well as observe indigenous plants and birds. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
The two places also differ in location: Ramskop Nature Reserve is in Clanwilliam, while the Sevilla Rock Art Trail is 34 km away. If you would like to include rock art and wildlife watching in your plans, take this distance into account.
Local History, Crafts and Art
The Old Gaol Museum showcases the history of the Rooibos industry. Exhibits include machinery from the early 20th century and hand tools used at the time. This brings industrial history to life through specific examples. Check before your visit whether the exhibition is currently on display.
Stepnie offers a historical walking tour through the town centre. Check availability before your trip. Tourists can also visit Strassbergers Shoe Factory, where Veldskoene are available to buy. Check access arrangements in advance.
The Finbond Kunssentrum vir die Jeug offers free art classes especially for children. The children's work is exhibited at the Clanwilliam Tourism Bureau. Before visiting, check whether the classes are currently available.
Rooibos Experiences in Town
House of Rooibos offers Rooibos-inspired drinks and treats, as well as an extensive selection of Rooibos products and souvenirs. At Velskoendraai, the focus is on tastings from a selection of more than 100 flavoured or blended Rooibos teas. This lets you distinguish between drinks, treats and products on the one hand, and a tea tasting on the other. The selection of products and teas may change.
The Rooibos Route offers seven themed areas, including Rooibos cultivation, activities, history and food and drink experiences; Clanwilliam is at the centre of the route. The themes therefore extend beyond tastings to include history and cultivation. Individual participating experiences may change.
Places to Stay Nearby
A resort is located near Clanwilliam, on the banks of Clanwilliam Dam. It offers chalets and a camping area with powered and unpowered sites. There are good views of the dam from the resort. Before your trip, check which facilities are currently available.
The local Angling Club also regularly holds fishing competitions at Clanwilliam Dam, including the Bass Classic in October. Check the dates and whether the competitions are still taking place before making plans.
Discover more destinations: Lutzville, Grotto Bay, Riebeeck West, Koringberg, Vredenburg, Vredendal, Saldanha, Piketberg.
For the broader travel overview: West Coast.
