Hexpas Express, De Doorns, Hex River Valley
All who have done this trip come away with not only memories of the beautiful scenery, but with a sense of having “lived” the history – that of the railway, built in the 1870’s, aspects of the Boer War and the way of life of those who originally inhabited this area.
The railway was hewn from the rock creating tunnels and cuttings and negotiated the steep climbs of the Hex River Pass, sometimes at an incline of 1:40 between Hexpass and Matroosberg Stations.
The remains of British blockhouses still guard the handmade cutting as they did during the Boer War in the early 1900s, and each century-old rock inscription, done by the soldiers on the walls of this cutting, tells its own story.
During the ride, Stephaan Jordaan, our guide, identifies some of the indigenous plants, many utilised by the Khoi San for making their bows, tipping them with poison, or for curing various ailments. Baboons, rock hoppers, and numerous interesting birds were spotted.
Bring your own picnic basket as a lunch stop at the scenic Tunnel Station is included on all trips. Passengers are allowed to walk through the 130+ year old railway tunnel on all trips.
You can take this trip any time of year, and each season puts its own stamp on the experience. Bright summer scenery with the valley clothed in green; Autumn when the grape vines turn to gold before losing their leaves and winter, (remember to bring warm clothes), when the mountains are capped with snow.
The vintage Fordson 35 horse power tractor has been adapted to the lines and pulls two coaches seating 6 and 18 adults.
You can take this trip any time of year, and each season puts its own stamp on the experience. Bright summer scenery with the valley clothed in green; Autumn when the grape vines turn to gold before losing their leaves and winter, (remember to bring warm clothes), when the mountains are capped with snow.
The vintage Fordson 35 horse power tractor has been adapted to the lines and pulls two coaches seating 6 and 18 adults.
The trip duration is 5 hours from Hexpas Station to the old Tunnel Station. (November to April – 09:00 and May to October – 10:00 when you must bring warm clothes).
Special trips, for groups of at least 8 people, can be arranged for any other day of the week.
Departure: Veldskoen Farm Stall (35 km from Worcester on N1 and 4.5km north of De Doorns)
Booking is essential (12 hours prior to trip) Tel: 083 292 0348 Call +27 (0)23 356 3233 or +27 (0)23 356-2041 or E-mail
Rates are R120 per adult and R60 per child (under 18).
| More info on the town of De Doorns | More info on the Breede Valley area |
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