Perched on South Africa’s Western Cape, Darling is a laid-back country town known for its deliciously creamy butter. It's part of the Cape Floral Region and is surrounded by a tapestry of beautiful wildflowers. Spend your time visiting boutique wineries, discovering local history and viewing local wildlife at nearby nature parks.
Things to do in Swartland
Starring local legend Pieter-Dirk Uys, the Evita se Perron is one of South Africa's most iconic cultural experiences. The tongue-in-cheek cabaret show touches on everything from history to politics. You can also stroll through the sculpture garden, devour Afrikaner cuisine at the Darling Station Restaurant and shop for traditional Swartland handicrafts at the A en C Shop.
Housed in the historic Town Hall, the Darling Museum offers a fascinating glimpse at the town's butter-making industry. It was founded in 1978 by the Darling Women’s Agricultural Association and showcases everything from Victorian clothing to vintage butter churning wheels.
With its fertile soil and sunny climate, Darling is prime winemaking country. Groote Post is one of the best local vineyards, famous for its crisp chardonnays and fruity sauvignon blancs. There are free tastings, a fantastic on-site restaurant and a handful of self-guided nature walks to explore.
If seeing exotic animals are on your wish list, don't miss the !Khwa ttu San Culture & Education Centre. It's home to a host of African game species, including zebra, ostriches, oryx, bontebok and big herds of springbok. The park is at its best in August and September, when it explodes in a sea of wildflowers.
Getting around Swartland
Darling is easy to explore on foot, but you'll need a car to tour the rest of the Cape Floral Region. The town is a one-hour drive from Cape Town and 30 minutes from the town of Malmesbury. Cape Town International is the closest airport, about an hour away by car.