Lowlands Estate is a beautiful sheep, cattle and pecan nut farm on the Fish River 30 minutes northwest of Cradock. The farm also offers accommodation which means visitors can access the farm to see some of the magnificent landmarks and historic houses located here. The Fish River flows all year round (except for a month during winter) thanks to the Orange-Fish water scheme which means the farm has an abundance of water which is evident in the fast-flowing river, full water channels, many irrigation pivots and green fields.
Katkop Weir on the Great Fish River is probably the most notable landmark on Lowlands. Thanks to the Orange Fish water scheme the area has an abundance of water and the river runs strongly for 11 months of the year with the 12th month being used for maintenance on the tunnel so there is no water running through.
The irrigation scheme is mainly supplied with water from the Orange River diverted from the Gariep Dam. The water gets pumped via an 83 km tunnel from Oviston to the outlet at Teebus near Steynsburg. Water supplied through the tunnel is destined to several irrigation schemes and metropolitan areas in the Easten Cape. These include the Cradock area, Lower Sundays River Valley irrigation areas near Kirkwood / Addo as well as Grahamstown and the Nelson Mandala Bay Metropolitan area.
Note - The electronic gate to the farm is open from 6am to 6pm, so don't get caught inside.
Another Note - Keep following the Lowlands Country House and Lowlands Manor signs and you won't get lost
Just in case Note - If you get lost or need assistance while on the farm, please phone Dave & Anne Bowker based at Lowlands Country House on 071 393 3354. They are aware of the caches and gave permission for them to be placed.