Riversdale

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Geography and History

Riversdale is situated in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Situated on the Garden Route, Riversdale is a town that has something for everyone and visitors will always feel welcomed by the friendly local residents. Riversdale is a quaint country town situated on the N2 highway between the Langeberg mountain range, on the bank of the Vet River, that flows into the Indian Ocean at Stilbaai. The town was named after Harry Rivers, a local government official, and proclaimed in 1938.

The majestic Langeberg Mountain range is a predominant landmark. The beautiful Sleeping Beauty mountain peak provides a well known backdrop to the town of Riversdale.

Activities

Riversdale is well known for it's abundance of indigenous Fynbos. During the colder winter months, the landscape becomes a floral displays to treat your senses! This has earned the town recognition as being the Floral Paradise of the Garden Route. Proteas and Ericas are harvested here for export.

Riversdale hosts a popular flower show every September. Upon entering Riversdale in the Spring, you will become immediately aware of a rather strong odour which is caused by the rather smelly Agathosma (a type of Buchu plant). Buchu was oiginally used by the San as a relief for stomach complaints, kidney and urinary tract diseases, relieving rheumatism and minor digestive disturbances.

Other activities in the area include several hiking Trails and walks that will take you through this magnificent floral kingdom. For those who feel like taking on something a little more strenuous, there are acitivities such as mountain biking and abseiling, 4 x 4 trails, canoeing etc

The Klein Karoo Nature Reserve at Ladismith and the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area north of Heidelberg are both less than 1 hour’s drive.