The Kleinrivier Mountains are part of the Cape Fold Belt of the Western Cape and is named for the Kleinrivier (Afrikaans: small river) that has its origin along its north-western slopes. The range rises in the west along the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley and continues eastward towards Stanford from where it stretches in a north-easterly direction, terminating at Akkedisberg Pass. The highest point in the range is Maanskynkop (964m) (Afrikaans: moonlight peak), and although no peaks actually exceed 1000m, the range is still quite imposing as it rises very steeply from sea-level.
The Klein River originates as the Hartebees River along the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley where the catchment is divided between the headwaters of the Onrus River (flowing west) and the Hartebees (flowing east).
From the confluence of the Hartebees and a smaller tributary of the Klein, the river is officially known as the Klein River. Three other rivers flow into it before it curves south and then west to reach the Atlantic Ocean at the Klein River lagoon. Although the river’s course is 80 km long, at 5km it is the river with the shortest straight distance between its origin and mouth in the world.
From the Stanford road bridge (R43), the Klein River meanders for 6 km before it reaches the neck of the lagoon. The Klein River Lagoon is about 10km long, just over 2km wide at its widest point and is a proclaimed bird sanctuary.
Gateway to the Overberg – An Introduction:
Within driving distance of South Africa’s Mother City, lies a region of contrasts and wonder. The Overberg has rugged mountain ranges, fynbos, rolling wheat and canola fields, and splendid coastal vistas. It is for you to reflect, discover and have a geocache adventure worth remembering.
Once on this side of the mountain, the traveller will find a myriad of roads into the Overberg where the land, mountains, sea and people tell their own story. The Overberg is a region that stretches along coasts with beautiful beaches, and over mountain ranges with interesting geological formations, abundant birdlife and unique fynbos. The roads will take you on a journey through valleys with picturesque vineyards, orchards and beautiful landscapes of green, gold and brown.
Memories from the past – as illustrated by the Overberg’s rich collection of mission stations, shipwrecks and old architectural treasures – exist harmoniously with new town developments, ensuring visitors find all they need.
So get away from life’s mad rush and pay the Overberg a visit. Here, on our roads, you will have the freedom to decide whether to turn left, right, stop or drive on slowly.
Suikerbossies are a South African geocaching team.
You can follow our adventures on our Facebook Page Suikerbossies Geocaching Adventures.
