There is no spring in the Cape unless the whales breach for joy and the wild flowers bloom heavenwards: literally in the Flower Church of Clanwilliam. Be sure to visit the annual kaleidoscopic flower arrangement of this Namaqualand district and view more than 500 species at the annual botanical gathering.
What makes the flowers of Clanwilliam so special is the region's varied topography: to the north of the picturesque Cedar Mountains there is a typical Karoo environment; at the foot of these mountains there is the valley area of the Olifants River; and to the west there is the Sandveld with its own unique habitat.
Showcasing the unique flora of the Clanwilliam region and Ramskop Nature Reserve, the show aims to raise public awareness on conservation issues. A new medicinal garden has also been planted during the past year to add to the comprehensive variety of flora in the region. A special botanical division displays all the flowers on show with their botanical, as well as their common names. The flower fête includes concerts, art and food stalls, and a street carnival. Various exciting activities like music performances, art competitions for kids, hiking trails and trips are on offer throughout the show which promises a memorable experience for the whole family. So, grab the kids and come to see the annual explosion of colours, reflected in all the pretty Mesembryanthema or Vygies.
Need to know? The official opening of the Clanwilliam Wild Flower Show will take place a day before on 21 August at 18h00 and the public are invited to attend. The show is open from 08h00 to 19h00 daily and the entry fee is R20 for adults, R15 for pensioners and R5 for children.