The Berg River region got is name from one of the major rivers of the Western Cape. The Berg River's long course starts in the mountains of Stellenbosch, passes through Paarl, Wellington, Gouda, and Piketberg, and eventually spills into the Atlantic at Velddrift. During the rainy season (July) the Berg River Marathon is where canoeists gather from all over the world. But besides being a popular sports attraction, the river is also the main source of water for irrigation to the numerous wine farms along its banks. The largest town in the region is Piketberg, situated at the foot of a large massive that is surrounded by plains. Piketberg got its name from French word picquet, which means a small group of soldiers on the lookout. This refers to the lookout post that was established here in 1792 to protect local farmers against plunderers. The town developed on the location from where the cannons were fired. Across the valley towards the east is Porterville, a small agricultural town and gateway to the spectacular Olifants (Elephant's) River Mountains. Take the Dasklip pass to the Beaverlac Private Reserve and enjoy the cool mountain pools and waterfalls of the Ratel River or hike up to the cave on the bank of the Olifants River. If a leopard already occupies the cave, please respect its privacy and return later.
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