Darling
Description
Darling is a small town situated in the west coast region of the Western Cape. Located about 75km from Cape Town, the sleepy village of Darling is characterised by rolling vineyards, golden wheat fields, and a colourful patchwork of seasonal wildflowers. Browse or list of accommodation in Darling listed below.
The historic village of Darling was founded in 1853 and named after Sir Charles Henry Darling, who came to the Cape in 1851 as Lieutenant Governor. Boasting a wide range of historical, natural, and cultural attractions, Darling is well worth a visit. A wide range of accommodation waits, promising to suit all needs and budgets.
Darling features a variety of exciting historical attractions with lovingly restored Victorian homes and ancient trees that add to its charm. Be sure to stop by the Darling Museum which portrays the history of the town and the Darling creamery that was established in 1899 by two Swedish settlers. Darling Museum also holds an interesting collection of large agricultural machines. The Hildebrand Monument is a memorial to Field Cornet C.P Hildebrand of the Boer Forces’ Martiz Commando.
Nature lovers will be in their element. The town is traditionally known for its beautiful wildflowers and has hosted the annual Darling Wildflower show since 1917; attracting tourists from all over. Must-see attractions include the Darling Wind Farm, Yzerfontein beach, Bird Island Nature Reserve, Elandsfontein Private Reserve, the Darling Stagger, Buffelsfontein Game Nature Reserve, and Duckitt Nurseries - the largest orchid nursery in South Africa.
Darling boasts a popular cultural heritage with exciting activities to keep even the most discerning visitor happy. Make sure you stop by the famous Evita se Perron cabaret theatre, where the well-known South African satirist, Peter-Dirk Uys, has performed many of his shows as “Evita Bezuidenhoutâ€. Alternatively, visit the !Khwa ttu San Culture & Education Centre where you can easily spend a couple of hours learning about the indigenous San people. After working up an appetite, enjoy a meal at one of Darling’s quirky eateries like The Marmalade Cat, Vyge Valley Farm Stall, Chicory Cheese Café, and Darling Wine Shop. A monthly market is held on the first Saturday of every month.
The Darling Wine Route boasts a range of excellent wineries, producing top quality wines. If you’re a wine connoisseur, be sure to stop by Cloof, Groote Post, Darling Cellars, Ormonde, and Tukulu for wine tastings and/or cellar tours. Some of the estates have restaurants offering tasty meals to accompany the different wines. Hilda's Kitchen at Groote Post is open for lunch and Darling Cellars offers picnic baskets as well as a kiddies' play area.
Other activities include golfing at Darling Golf Club, hiking the trails in the rolling hillside, and browsing the bric-a-brac at Ouma’s Treasures.
Experience all there is on offer in Darling by booking a stay at one of the following accommodations.