Situated along the N7 Kardoesie offers respite for the soul and the stomach.
There is an old saying along the lines of “When buying a café pie and coke, be sure to get a Rennies too” But that is not true for Kardoesie, one can drive here from Cape Town for their pies without any need to worry about heartburn.
Capetonians know about Kardoesie. It is a well known farmstall and campsite next to the N7 just as you summit the Piekenierskloof Pass en route to Citrusdal and its worth stopping here.
The moment I stopped I was offered lunch and it only took me a few seconds to settle on a homemade lamb pie and ginger beer, I am a sucker for pies, and it was certainly the right choice.
Bianca Theron and her husband Barthlo are in charge of things on the farm. In a jiffy lunch was on its way and my camping spot was organised. And this is how they treat all visitors, ensuring that everything is comfortable and convenient for all visitors and campers.
I have seen very few camp sites which such views . From the swimming pool’s deck or the lawns on which the campsites are located you have the most amazing views of the Swartlands wheatfields. Even better, was the golden sunset over the Westcoast. They say on a clear day the sun makes a golden stripe over the sea, which can be seen from the campsite.
The campsites are located on well maintained lawns and perfectly level. Each site has a powerpoint with blue plugs. Three of the sites share a distribution board, but with an extension, which each camper should have, it is easy enough to get electricity to your caravan or tent.
The green lawns are perfect for the younger generation to play on while parents relax around the fire as the sun sets in the west. Bliss.
A nice big swimming pool, surrounded by a big wooden deck will cool you down during the warm summer months. There is also a small jungle gym next to the swimming pool and the whole camping area creates a relaxing atmosphere for the entire family.
The mountains offer an abundance of hiking paths and dedicated cyclists will enjoy exploring the trails in the area, however they are not for everyone you will need a mountainbike and some experience to do so enjoyably. The hiking and cycling trails are however very well marked.
The ablutions are located right next to the camp sites and are spacious, perfectly clean and well looked after. There is even the luxury option of a bath.
As I walk into the farm stall, friendly, hospitable staff are on hand. My lunch was a freshly baked venison pie and homemade Rooibos lemonade. It was a winning combination and I can really recommend it. The pie tasted like my grandmother had baked it and I instantly knew that it had been baked with love. And if Kardoesie reminds you of your grandmother, they must be doing something right
The morning before I depart, I first drink a nice cup coffee at the farmstall. I order a cupcake and I concluded my visit to kardoesie after two lovely days. Located on the N7 on the Cape Namibia route it is the ideal place to sleep over if you are doing that trip or if you are just looking for a quick breakaway from the Cape. Come enjoy the lovely eats at the farm stall and the vistas from next to your tent as the sun sets.
FACILITIES
- Electricity: yes
- Hot water: yes
- Fishing: No
- Relaxing space: yes
- Swimming pool: yes
- Nearest town: Citrusdal
I WANT TO GO, TOO
- Name: Kardoesie
- Location: near Citrusdal
- Accommodation: Camping and self-catering
- Pricing: From R130 per person per night
- Contact: 071 416 3820
- Website: https://www.lekkerkampplekke.co.za/kampplek/kardoesie/
Text and photographs: Pierre Labuschagne