The farm of Kromrivier, which has been in the Nieuwoudt family for several generations, is located approximately 35km east of Algeria Forest Station in the heart of the Cederberg. In the 1960’s the Nieuwoudts founded the Cederberg Tourist Park.

The aim is to redevelop Kromrivier into a unique resort experience which celebrates the beauty of the Cederberg landscape in an ecologically sensitive and sustainable manner.

 

Proposed development

 

Rehabilitation of the existing farm Opstal and Werf

The historical Kromrivier homestead has over the years transformed architecturally through the accretion of diverse additions   and alterations. In addition to this, the use of the farm buildings and the farm as a whole has, in some instances changed, and in other ceased to be maintained or used at all.

As part of the resort development at Kromrivier, it is proposed to renovate the existing homestead and farm buildings to reflect its original state.

 

Based on professional consultation and historical architectural research, it is proposed to refurbish the farm buildings and structures by removing some of the non-historical elements and renovating others. This would include the replacement of the existing asbestos roof over the manor house with a historically accurate thatch roof. The original mill structure, amongst other dilapidated farm werf structures, would also be renovated and put into working order.

The intention is to turn the farm werf into a ‘working farm’ whereby visitors and tourists will be able to experience farming activities first hand and gain an understanding of how the farm has historically functioned. Parallel to this, there are various entertainment and activity opportunities that can be paired with this ‘working farm’ experience.

It is proposed that the original manor house and adjacent buildings be utilised as a facility for conferences and functions. It is also envisaged that a small museum be established in one of the existing buildings.

 

 

The proposed Visitors’ Centre aims to capture and exemplify the unique beauty and genus loci of the Cederberg in general and specifically Kromrivier. This structure will form the heart of the resort development and, with its positioning on this specific site; aim to enhance the Cederberg experience. The proposed Visitors’ Centre will accommodate a small restaurant, outside entertainment areas, a small shop, information and the associated service areas.

 

 

At present, 11 existing Chalets populate the southern bank of the Kromrivier, with two more adjacent to the homestead. Despite the fact that these existing Chalets are in usable condition, they are all in need to upgrading and maintenance. It is proposed that these Chalets are demolished and that a variety of new Chalets are built to replace them. In keeping with the design ethos and development policy of the resort, the new Chalets are to be sensitive architectural interventions in the landscape which will enhance both the resort and the visitors’ appreciation of the pristine quality of the Cederberg environment. These new Chalets will also aim to be environmentally sustainable in terms of both their design and their role in the management of the resort.

Relocation of the existing Campsite

Currently the campsite is situated on the southern bank of the Kromrivier amongst a portion of the existing Chalets. With the intention to replace these Chalets, and to ensure adequate spacing between the Chalets, it is proposed that the campsite be relocated in an area to the east of the existing farm werf. The proposed site is planted with two rows of mature oak trees and it is the intention to capitalize on this ideal and existing condition to relocate the camping area and thus take advantage of the shade between the rows of oaks. New ablutions are proposed with a small wc/ shower/ washup facility being provided for each campsite. These structures will take on the same understated and sensitive architectural language as the rest of the development. Currently 35 camping sites exist (each catering for approximately 6 people) and it is proposed that this number be reduced to 20 sites.

 

 

Through an environmentally sensitive approach to the design and development of the Cederberg Tourist Park and a commitment to its long term ecological sustainability, we intend to create a resort which is at harmony with its surroundings and which will enhance the visitors’ appreciation of the pristine beauty of the Cederberg environment.