It is August which means Mother Nature is getting ready to put on her annual spectacular show of colour along the West Coast. We’ve put together a few tips to help you make the most of your day among the West Coast wildflowers.
1. Know when flower season starts
Spring starts earlier along the warmer West Coast than in Cape Town, with flower season peaking between early and late August, depending on the winter rainfall. Generally, the further north you travel, the earlier the flowers appear.
2. Watch the weather
The flowers only open on sunny days. Dodge disappointment by checking the weather forecast and avoiding rainy or overcast days. The day temperature should be at least 18 degrees Celsius.
3. Get your timing right
The best time for viewing flowers is during the warmest part of the day, between 10:30 and 16:00. Plan your trip to reach your destination in this time slot.
4. Feel the sun on your back
Flowers follow the path of the sun through the day and are therefore best viewed when traveling with the sun behind you. Try to do most of your flower-viewing by travelling in a southerly direction.
5. Dress comfortably
Wear long trousers and comfortable shoes for walking around in the fields. Insect repellent is also a good idea.
6. Pack a picnic
Nothing beats a picnic among the wildflowers. And no picnic is complete without wine. We recommend our Shiraz Rosé. Pair it with strawberries dipped in chocolate for a luxurious picnic treat.
7. Or make a weekend of it
With so much to offer, the West Coast is the perfect weekend breakaway destination. Spend Friday night at Melkboomsdrift or in Strandfontein, come for a wine tasting at Lutzville Vineyards on Saturday morning or enjoy a leisurely lunch at our Tasting Room after a round of golf. Head out on Sunday morning to feast your eyes on the West Coast wildflowers. You’ll be sure to come back for more next year!