Towns and suburbs

Klaarstroom

Klaarstroom is a small settlement at the southern entrance to the Swartberg Pass near De Rust. It is best known as a quiet stop along the scenic route between Oudtshoorn and Prince Albert.

Klaarstroom

Klaarstroom is a small settlement in the Karoo of the Western Cape, situated in a narrow valley at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains. It lies about 15 km south of De Rust and just off the R407 road leading towards the Swartberg Pass and Prince Albert. The village sits along the Klaarstroom River and serves mainly as a quiet stopover for travellers moving between Oudtshoorn, the Swartberg Pass and the Great Karoo.

History of Klaarstroom

Klaarstroom was originally called Pietersburg. The current name means “Clear stream” This would refer to the water that flows off the Swartburg mountains. As a result of this water, the vineyards flourish and produce wonderful grapes. This, in turn, produces the best Witblits, which is a distilled spirit from the grapes. Some swear by its medicinal qualities, others insist it affects eyesight.

The clear water in the river presented the first opportunity to wool farmers en route to Mossel Bay to wash their wool. This led to the establishment of a wool-washing facility. However, technology, the railways and highways made this stop unnecessary, and the wool-washing facility closed down

The little village has many examples of Victorian buildings and restored Victorian homesteads. There are three churches, a Victorian-style police station, a General Dealer, a hotel/bar/restaurant, and an authentic old-world guest house. There are two South African War/Anglo-Boer War graves in theAnglican Church cemetery.

The otherwise sleepy town was the scene of a commotion during the Anglo-Boer War when Denys Reitz and his flying commando galloped through the British-held town.
The town has kept its rural, sleepy atmosphere, but there is a dam in the area that is offered as a skinny-dipping venue.

Klaarstroom also has its own ghost story, ” The Wandering Jew of the Swartburg. An old smous (hawker) who rides with visitors and then suddenly disappears.

The postcode for Klaarstroom is 6932

Things to see and do in Klaarstroom 

Resources

Practical information for the Western Cape, Regulations, permits and helpful tips. See the Colourdots coastal and nature use guide

local WEATHER TODAY

Browse businesses and places to visit in Klaarstroom

 

Useful Numbers

Residents and visitors can find important local contact numbers below, including police, medical services, utilities, and community facilities in and around

  • Emergency Services

  • Police: 079 893 9995
  • Fire: Prince Albert – 0842796430 or 0822200848
  • Ambulance: 10177

  • Medical

  • Closest hospital: Prince Albert 023 541 1300/ 1301
  • Clinic; Sub-District Office – 023 5411 300

  • Municipal & Utilities

  • Water:0822200848
  • Electricity:023 5411320, after hours on tel: 0822200848

  • Transport & Roads

  • Traffic department: Prince Albert 023 541 1648 / 648 / 306

  • Community & Safety

  • SPCA: The De Rust Animal Health Trust 082 297 6977

  • Local Contacts and Community Resources 

  • Post office; Post Agency – 023 541 1667
  • Library:023 541 1193

  • Schools in Klaarstroom

  • : Primary school 023-541-1993
  • Colourdots is an independent regional information resource for the Western Cape.
    Learn more about the project HERE

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