Page 27 - Boardwalk Meander Issue 3 2026

TRAVEL

WANDERLUST: AFRICAMPS

KAROO CALM

By Nicky McArthur, courtesy of Muse Magazine, www.musemagazine.co.za

here is a stretch of the N1 that feels Myth and mountain
like driving through a living painting. The Hex River Valley is steeped in more than just agriculture; it is a place of myth and
TAs you climb the Hex River Pass, mystery. While the name originally stems from the crisscrossing Exe (X) of river trails
the lush, green vineyards of De Doorns – and ox-wagons, local legend tells a different story. Since 1768, tales of the Heks (witch)
which famously produce over half of our of the Matroosberg have haunted the peaks. It is said she wanders the mountains
country’s table grape exports – begin to under a full moon, searching for a long-lost love.
give way to the rugged, sun-kissed majesty
of the Great Karoo. Whether you believe the folklore or not, the landscape is undeniably spellbinding as
the sun sets over the Matroosberg – the region’s highest peak – casting long, dramatic
The Huguenot tunnel runs through the shadows over the fynbos. This magical time is ideal for wine on the verandah and
mountain range as part of the unique watching the Karoo stars from the hot tub, which we patiently loaded up with wood all
landscape, stretching 3.9 kilometres and day until it was suitably hot.
cutting through the Du Toitskloof Mountains
between Paarl and Worcester. As you The days are long in summer
transition from the awe-inspiring landscape They stretch lazily from sunrise, and we spent most of our mornings at the
outside, it is here, tucked away on the incomparable rock pool unique to Karoo 1. With cool waters, sun loungers, and epic
Karoo 1 Farm Estate, that AfriCamps at scenery, it’s not hard to while away the time. And when the kids needed movement, we
Karoo 1 invites you to experience glamping met up with Chris, the king of adventure. From quad biking and Segways to archery and
that is as wild as it is comfortable. pellet gun target shooting, there is a lot to do.

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Boardwalk Meander Estate Issue 3 · 2026