Breaking News
November 19, 2025
Botrivier, a town nestled along the slopes of Houw Hoek Pass and bordering the Overberg area of the Western Cape, has a rich story of land, culture, and nature.
The valley was once home to the Khoi-Khoi herders, who drove their livestock along the river once called āCougaā (or āGougaā), meaning ārich in fat / lots of butter.ā
The Afrikaans name āBotrivierā comes from botter (butter) ā a reference to how the Khoi-Khoi and later the settlers exchanged butter for trade.
In the 18th century, the area was of great strategic value: farms and river crossings, including Compagnes Drift in what is now Botrivier, were overseen by the Dutch East India Company (VOC).
After the 19th century and into the early 20th century, when the railway line reached the area, Botrivier Valley began evolving into a commercial corridor, agricultural center, and convenient stop for travelers.
Nowadays, Botrivier is a place to enjoy wine estates, wetlands, scenic farm landscapes, and a peaceful country setting.
Botrivier offers an abundance of experiences ā whether you are looking for nature, wine, history, or simply a quiet escape. Below are just some of the highlights of what you might experience:
Horseback riding through vineyards, farm tracks, foothills, and river valleys will give you a peaceful and idyllic rural experience.
Take a walk along farm tracks, through the Houw Hoek foothills, and explore the valley and river with your own feet.
The mountain bike trail networks cover farms, hills, and vineyards, making them perfect for your next cycling adventure.
If allowed, enjoy activities like swimming, fishing, small-boat excursions, or simply relaxing by the lagoon or river.
Find a quiet spot along the river or with a beautiful hill view, unwind, and enjoy the fresh country air ā the perfect escape from city life.
Explore the Van der Stel Pass, Houw Hoek route, or other country roads that connect plains, hills, and river valley views.
For adventure seekers, there are tracks running through hills, valleys, and less-congested farmland routes to explore.
Visit early settler buildings, old farms (such as Compagnes Drift), trading posts, and learn the story of butter-bartering that shaped the valleyās history.
Enjoy walking the vineyard trails, olive groves, orchards, and farm estates that are deeply connected to the valleyās farming roots.
Get to know the Bot River Lagoon estuarine system, a Ramsar-designated wetland, home to waterfowl, wild horses, and incredible biodiversity.
