The Wildebeest's guide to South Africa

Darling

Afrikaans name: Darling

Darling CBD

Darling CBD

Photo © Johan van Zyl

Western Cape

About an hours drive north of Cape Town is the small town of Darling. It may be small but it has a big reputation when it comes to attracting tourists. What is the attraction? There are many of them including the spring flowers, fantastic food and, of course, the iconic South African personality Evita Bezuidenhout.

Darling is hosting more and more events during the year including country markets, flower shows and live acts at Evita se Perron.

The Darling Museum was established in 1978, by some of the farmers' wives, to highlight the butter making history of the area. Besides the butter exhibits there are agricultural implements on show and displays of various Victorian and Edwardian furniture. There is also an exhibit to highlight the heritage of the San and Khoe people who have inhabited South Africa for so long.

There are a number of good restaurants in the town but eating at 'Evita se Perron' is more than just a meal. Evita Bezuidenhout, the stage name of actor Pieter-Dirk Uys, is well-known in South Africa and this is her home and restaurant. It is open for breakfast and lunch on Tuesdays through to Sundays. Dinner is only served when there are shows on or for private functions.

Besides the attraction of the spring flowers, nature lovers will enjoy a visit to Buffelsfontein Game Reserve and !Khwa ttu San Culture and Education Centre. The area surrounding Darling is also great for birders. Darling is part of the Swartland Birding Route.

A variety of accommodation is available for visitors including self-catering, guest houses, B & B's and there is even accommodation on some of the farms nearby.

Have you been to Darling? Would you recommend it?



CBD, Darling

Above - Darling CBD

Photo © Johan van Zyl

Evita se Perron

Above - Evita se Perron - home of Pieter-Dirk Uys and his well-known stage character Evita Bezuidenhout

Photo © Johan van Zyl

Dutch Reformed Church, Darling

Above - Dutch Reformed Church (1958)

Photo © Johan van Zyl

Presbyterian Church, Darling

Above - Presbyterian Church (1915)

Photo © Johan van Zyl

References and further reading


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