The Namaqualand region of the Northern Cape is bordered in the North by the Orange River and Namibia border and in the West by the rugged coastline of the Atlantic Ocean.
The area is best known for the profusion of wildflowers that burst into colour during the late Winter / early Spring months of July to October.
Normally a drab colourless desert during the remainder of the year, the annual Winter rainfall is enough to germinate millions of flowers, turning the desert into a mass of brilliant colour.
Houthoop
The name, "Houthoop", was derived from a stack of indigenous "Redvig" wood, that was placed in the shape of a shelter. It has been in existence for over 45 years and now serves as an open-air restaurant.
The Houthoop is located on the farm, Steenvlei, which is very centrally situated. Our location makes us the ideal place to stay, especially during the flower season, or just to visit different destinations along the West Coast.
The rustic farm-style setting of The Houthoop is ideal for visitors to Namaqualand who would like to experience true Namaqualand hospitality.
Houthoop is ideal for nature lover who would like to see Namaqualand in all its splendour. The flower season starts from June to October when winter rains have converted the veldt to a green winter wonderland.
Informal walking trails are available. You might see the meerkat or suricate, a small mammal while walking. Plants can be identified and for the inquisitive person, there is a world of insect life.
The generous meals that are served are prepared to perfection. Braai's (barbeques) and potjies served with salads are the standard. Seafood and game meals will be prepared upon request at an extra cost.
Accommodation
Enjoy the rustic atmosphere of true Namaqualand farm-style accommodation. We offer 4 en-suite Self Catering Units, 25 Huts (sleep 2 each), Campsites (grass, electrical points and warm showers).
Wooden Huts with shared facilities:
We offer 20 wooden huts and each hut can accommodate two people.
The lounge in the guesthouse is available to all visitors where they may relax; make use of the private bar facilities and catch up on current affairs on DSTV.
Meals are served in our restaurant in the guest house or optional we can recommend meals in The Fishbone (the Visbeen).
* Open-air Restaurant
* Various 4x4 trails
* Van Dyk Veld Museum
* Camping at Taaibosknop
* Fauna & Flora of The Houthoop
* Conferencing and Wedding Facilities
* Gift Shop
From Johannesburg/Upington follow the N14 to Springbok (or the N7 from Cape Town)
Flower Route:
In Springbok follow the road past the Mikro Suprette on your right to the first turnoff on your left hand-side.
Take the turnoff to Buffelsrivier town and follow it (through the town of Komaggas) for 30km from the turn-off.
The total distance to The Houthoop is 65km. Turn right at The Houthoop sign.
Alternative Route:
In Springbok follow the road to Kleinzee.
Drive past the Grootmis Church to your right and over the concrete river-crossing.
Just past that turnoff on your left-hand side; follow it for 15km to The Houthoop.
