Property for sale in Clanwilliam, Western Cape

From the pristine Cederberg mountains to the cold waters of the Atlantic, the area comprises Clanwilliam properties, Graafwater properties and Lambert's Bay properties. Also included is Leipoldtville, a hamlet that originated as a mission station. Clanwilliam, first named Jan Disselsvlei, was founded at the beginning of the 19th century, when Irish settlers were encouraged to make their homes here. Named after the Earl of Clanwilliam who was father-in-law to the governor of the Cape at that time, Clanwilliam is one of the ten oldest towns in the Western Cape. Graafwater, which refers to the spade used to dig for water, was created as a railway station when the junction from Cape Town to Bitterfontein was established in 1910. Lambert's Bay's coastline was charted by Admiral Lambert and first became a municipality in 1969. Although small, with a population of around eight thousand, Clanwilliam has a busy atmosphere. Many Clanwilliam properties are situated above the Ramskop Dam, the wall of which is to be raised. The dam is a popular spot for water-sports and camping and is set to become a prime development area with plans for a waterside boutique hotel and restaurants. There are primary and high schools, a clinic, hospital, four major banks, a Super-Spar, various active sports clubs and facilities and a strong tourist presence. Chief tourist attractions include hiking, visiting bushman rock art sites and rock formations, bouldering and taking in magnificent vistas of wild flowers in Spring season. Clanwilliam is the centre of the rooibos tea industry, this being the only area in the world where rooibos is to be found. Rooibos tea has many health properties and is a strong export. Bushmanskloof, one of the top ten hotel properties in the world, is about 40 km into the Cederberg from Clanwilliam. Graafwater is halfway between Clanwilliam and Lambert's Bay. This area is known as the Sandveld, which is a prime area for potato farming as well as mixed farming. It is a quiet town. Graafwater properties are sought by those who wish to leave a city context and diversify investment. Lambert's Bay is a harbour town, reminiscent of diamond dredging and guano farming. Bird Island has a large gannet colony. There is a rocky stretch of coast south of the harbour and long, white beach to the north, picturesque against the blue Atlantic. Lambert's Bay has primary schools, a clinic, banks, a hotel, sea-food restaurants, and wonderful views over the ocean. Lambert’s Bay Clanwilliam properties are spread over the bays that flank the harbour. They also overlook the vlei with its bird life that borders the town. Often referred to as the Cederberg to sea area, there are choices here for those who wish to create a homestyle and lifestyle. From town homes to small cottages, apartments overlooking the dam, farms, seaside villas and guest houses, there are properties to suit all pockets and purposes. The simplicity of living here is reflected in the relaxed, queue-less yet full activities of local people. Short winters and extended mild changes of season add to the attractive climate. With the raising of the Clanwilliam Dam wall,Clanwilliam properties have the prospect of increased value while properties throughout the area have the benefit of offering versatile entrepreneurial value. Whether the choice is to braai each evening, carve out a new work signature, retire while popping over to Cape Town for weekends or to become familiar with one of the Western Cape’s more rugged yet beautiful vistas, the region creates homes that breathe clean air, knit new perspectives and grant the peace of a more simple lifestyle. From Lambert's Bay through Graafwater to Clanwilliam properties are the means to discover and establish another beautiful aspect of the soul of the Western Cape. Read Less