McGregor

McGregor is situated in the Western cape on Route 62

The 19th century village of McGregor is home to artists, craftsmen, and colorful characters. Here life is slow, tranquil and gentle. Beautifully preserved white-washed cottages nestle in half wild gardens, water trickles and burbles down old stone irrigation channels and one almost expects to see the shadowy figure of a woman in the garb of yesteryear, with a basket of roses over her arm, disappearing around the next corner

Here in McGregor the rush and bustle of the city seems far, far away. Wander along some of the beautiful trails in our nature reserves, watch the birds at play from the hide, have a delicious meal and a chat at one of our coffee shops or restaurant, or relax with an aromatherapy massage. McGregor, a village lost in time, a place for reflection. You may never want to leave.

Situated at the foot of the Riviersonderend Mountains, McGregor is by far the best preserved and most complete example of mid 19^th century Cape architecture, with most cottages built with end-gables, stables doors and small lofts under reed-thatched roofs. This quaint village, originally known as Lady Grey and situated 20 km from Robertson, offers a peaceful weekend retreat for tired city dwellers

GENERAL INFORMATION

How to get there

Robertson 20 km

NATURE

Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve

The reserve covers 2004 ha. Antelope species include springbak (reintroduced), klipspringer, grey rhebok, Cape Grysbok, Steenbok and common duiker. Over 180 bird species have been recorded. There are no accommodation facilities in the reserve. Other facilities include a number of paths for walking, picnic sites, a bird hide and the Rooikat Trail of 16,5 km. The reserve is open throughout the year from sunrise to sunset, and visitors are requested to phone ahead to book permits.

Krans Nature Reserve

In spring this small reserve, a blend of mountain fynbos and Karoo scrub, provides a colourful display of wild flowers. The reserve has an abundant birdlife and offers magnificent views of the surrounding hills and the village of McGregor.

ATTRACTIONS

Art Mill Stone Pottery

Paul De Jongh – raku, terracotta, stoneware, porcelain

Jo’s Studio

Drawing courses, paintings ans mixed media workshops – fabric collage.

McGregor Trading Store & Teddy Shop

For your quality gifts, decorating goods and hand made McGregor Teddies.

Banks Pottery Studio

Fynbos decorated wash handbasins

McGregor Winery

ACTIVITIES

Hiking

Rooikat Trail

Vrolijkeheid Nature Reserve

Boesmanskloof Hiking Trail

The trail winds through the Riviersonderend Mountains in the Robertson Karoo region of the southwestern Cape. The trail links the small towns of McGregor in the north and Greyton in the south. It passes through the Riviersonderend Conservation area, which is a declared mountain catchment area comprised of state land and private property. The conservation area and the trail are managed by Cape Nature Conservation from the Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve near Robertson. Climate, Plants and Animals. The summer months are extremely warm and dry, while winters are generally cold and wet. The vegetation in the area is typical mountain fynbos with a rich diversity of plant species. Many different protea and Erica species occur here, notably the extremely rare Erica galgebergensis and Erica parvulsepala. More than 50 species of the grass like restions are found in these mountains. Distinctive riverine vegetation grows along the water courses, with typical species the stream conebush and wild almond. Mammals found in the area include common duiker, grey rhebuck, klipspringer, baboon and dassie. Caracal and small spotted genet are fairly common, and leopard occur but are less likely to be encountered. Birds include Malachite Sunbird and Cape Sugarbird which are attached by the vast tracts of sugarbush and common pincushion. Black and Booted Eagle, Jackal Buzzard and other raptors may also be seen. Hikers should note the following: The trail is reasonably strenuous and they should be fit and well equipped. Water may be required in the summer months. The trail can be dangerous under extreme winter conditions. A valid permit is required and must be carried at all times. The hike should be booked well in advance. Numbers are restricted to 50 hikers per day, with a maximum of 20 per group. No dogs are allowed. No fires are allowed. No overnight camping is allowed on the trail. The flora and fauna are strictly protected. Field rangers regularly patrol the route and will assist hikers with information.

Accommodation in and around McGregor