Swellendam - Canola Fields a Festive Sight

Canola Fields Credits: "Freda"

Canola plants, grown for their oil, flower in late July through to mid September. When they do it is a quite beautiful sight. Canola is a derivative of rapeseed and there is a lot of debate regarding the qualities of Canola Oil, but there is little to beat the sight of Canola fields around Swellendam (and other parts of the Cape) in full bloom. 

Of course wheat fields and maize fields and vineyards and fields full of sheep and herds of Herefords are just as beautiful. I suppose it depends where you are, and the time of year! 

Whatever you do, do yourself a favour. If you are driving to the Cape anytime from the end of July to Mid September come via Oudtshoorn, George, Mossel Bay and Swellendam. The Aloes in full bloom and the Canola fields will create a lasting memory. 

From Johannesburg go through Beaufort West and a few kilometres past Beaufort West turn left onto the N12. You will go through the Meiringspoort Pass, through De Rust and then on to Oudtshoorn. From Oudtshoorn down the Outeniqua Pass to George and then onto the N2 to Swellendam and Cape Town. 

Alternatively, from Oudtshoorn go through Calitzdorp and Ladismith to Barrydale and then from barrydale down to Swellendam.

See some images in our Facebook album called Canola Fields.