Uniondale, Karoo-Western Province

Uniondale lies adjacent to the Langkloof, which winds its way through the foothills of the of the Tsitsikamma Mountain range in an Area renowned for its scenic drives. Uniondale came into being when the two towns of Hopedale and Lyon became one in 1856. Uniondale was originally famous for its wagon building and ostrich feather industries but these faded over time leaving a quaint Farming Community whose principle production is sheep, goats, seeds and apples. There is too much to keep visitors entertained, like its aloe factory, which produces aloe crystal, gel and health drinks and the six Anglo Boer War forts - one of which has been restored to its original state and is well worth a visit. Then there’s Uniondale’s Watermill - the lovingly restored 1854 version with the largest wheel in South Africa, which now houses an art Gallery and superb Restaurant - and the Jewish Synagogue with its unique murals. Some of the most beautiful Drives are possible in the area around Uniondale. The Prince Alfred, Homtini, Montagu and Phantom passes, all dirt roads, are sheer breathtaking beauty. A tarred alternative is the Langkloof to Kareedouw Drive, which twists and turns along the foot of the Tsitsikamma Mountain range. The Langkloof includes a fruit route, which takes in a number of fruit farms and packing sheds. Possibly the best reason to linger in Uniondale is planning your outward journey: The N 9 takes you via Graaff-Reinet to Nieu-Bethesda and the unique Owl House; Prince Alfred’s Pass takes you down to Plettenberg Bay and Knysna on the Garden Route and if these don’t do it for you, then the R 62 takes you to Port Elizabeth.