Adelaide

Adelaide in the Eastern Cape is predominantly a beef, mutton, wool and citrus farming district, set in the attractive area just south of the Winterberg Mountains. The town played a large role in settler history, which is reflected in various historic homes, graceful churches and monuments. The large “square” with its trees, gardens and the municipal offices, makes a fine centre piece. 

The town museum was the parsonage of the Dutch Reformed Church from 1860 to 1964 and is a fine example of a two storey colonial era house. It is a national monument and has been finished in period style and houses collections of textiles and clothes, glass, porcelain, Wedgwood and silver.

For a glimpse of the traditions, culture and way of life of the Xhosa people, one can visit the township taverns and shebeens to sample traditional cooking, watch the dancing and perhaps purchase traditional beadwork and arts and crafts.

Just over 60km from Adelaide is the little-known Fort Fordyce and Mpofu Nature Reserves. Straddling the sourveld and Afromontane forest biomes, Fort Fordyce reserve has spectacular biodiversity for its size. Keen twitchers can prowl the forest in search of Knysna turacos (louries), Narina trogons and other megaticks. There is hiking, mountain biking, fishing, horse riding and some good rock climbing. The Mpofu Reserve is much larger and offers game drives, walking trails and bird watching. 

For more information on the Amatola Region, visit ShowMe.