Easy Day Trips from De Rust 

The following is a brief summary regarding a number of day trips and other activities within easy reach of De Rust including the following: 

Cango Caves via Oudemuragie: You can visit the Cango Caves by travelling on the Oudemuragie gravel road which takes you past De Rustica Olive Estates and the Raubenheimer Dam and joins the main tar road connecting Oudtshoorn and the Caves within a few kilometers of the Cango Caves. 

De Rust to Prince Albert via Klaarstroom: This is a easy drive through stunning Meiringspoort which leads to Klaarstroom 22 kilometers away. There are historic buildings in the village including St Saviours Church and two British War graves from the Boer War. Shortly after Klaarstroom turn left to Prince Albert some 55 kilometers further on. The Hamlet of Prince Albert is one of the oldest towns in the country and has many historic buildings and other attractions. 

The Swartberg Pass: You can return to De Rust via the Swartberg Pass which winds over the Swartberg range and has stunning views of the countryside as one ascends on the southern side of the pass. It is then possible to travel back to De Rust via either the Oudemuragie Road or alternatively via Oudtshoorn. 

Die Hel: For those who are particularly adventurous you can travel to Die Hel off the Swartberg Pass Road – this is a gravel road and only all-terrain vehicles with high clearance are advised to take this route. 

Calitzdorp: This town on the R62 Route is the heart of the fortified wine industry in the Klein Karoo and Boplaas Cellars is situated in the town. It also has many historic buildings worth viewing as well as coffee shops, restaurants and various levels of accommodation. 

Oudtshoorn: The capital of the Klein Karoo with a large number of sandstone and other historic buildings, the C. P. Nel Museum being one of these. It is also the centre of the Ostrich industry and the “Ostrich Emporium” is worth a visit. 

Other Environmental Tourism Related Activities in the Area include: 

The Swartberg Nature Reserve: Hikers will relish the challenge of hiking trails in the Swartberg Nature Reserve as well as the unique rock formations in Meiringspoort which have some of the best examples of rock formations and folding in South Africa. 

Meiringspoort and the Waterfall: The waterfall in Meiringspoort is part of the Swartberg Nature Reserve and is a very interesting stop on the way to Klaarstroom and Prince Albert. However, only being 10 kms. From De Rust it is also readily accessible for a short morning or afternoon visit from the Village. 

Mountain Biking: There is wonderful scenery in the immediate De Rust area of the Klein Karoo. Mountain biking is a very popular sport with many beautiful trail rides for both the experienced and other levels of rider. 

Horse Trails: For those who enjoy the open air there are excellent Horse Trails in the De Rust area linked to farm stays. In addition, there are classes for beginners of all ages who wish to learn to ride. 

Farm Stays in the De Rust Area: A number of historic farms in the area offer “Farm Stays” with a mix of other related outdoor activities also available. 

Wine Tasting: De Rust is part of the “Klein Karoo Wine Region” and the area specialities are some excellent fortified wines as well as other varieties. 

Wedding Venues: A number of farms have venues capable of staging “Boutique Weddings” in a unique country atmosphere. 

Off-road Motorcycling: For those looking for adventure experiences, facilities exist for Trail Motorcycling in order to savor the unique Klein Karoo landscape and scenery. 

Note: The above activities are a sample of those available in the De Rust area. Further information can be obtained from De Rust Tourism. 

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