Theewaterskloof Dam, Western Cape
Theewaterskloof Dam, Western Cape
The Theewaterskloof Dam, located near the town of Villiersdorp in the Western Cape, is the largest dam in the Western Cape Water Supply System. It plays a crucial role in supplying water to Cape Town and its surrounding regions. Constructed in the 1970s, the dam is formed by the confluence of several rivers, with the Sonderend River being the primary inflow. Its strategic position and storage capacity, which exceeds 480 million cubic meters, make it a key component for both agricultural irrigation and residential water supply, especially in a region that experiences periodic droughts.
Set against a backdrop of picturesque mountains, the Theewaterskloof Dam has also become a popular destination for outdoor and recreational activities. Visitors can engage in various water sports such as sailing, water-skiing, windsurfing, and fishing. The dam’s expansive waters, surrounded by natural beauty, make it ideal for leisurely boating and picnics along its shores. This recreational appeal, combined with its role in water provision, underscores its multifaceted significance to the Western Cape.
The surrounding area is home to fertile farmland, where vineyards, orchards, and grain crops thrive, thanks in part to the irrigation facilitated by the dam’s water. The agricultural activities have a symbiotic relationship with the dam, emphasizing its importance for sustaining local economies and food production in the region. The dam’s catchment area is managed with environmental conservation in mind to ensure sustainable water supply, which is vital for the communities and industries it serves.
In recent years, the Theewaterskloof Dam has been at the forefront of water crisis discussions, particularly during Cape Town’s severe drought that peaked between 2017 and 2018. The dam's historically low water levels during this period highlighted the challenges posed by climate change, population growth, and demand for resources. It served as a wake-up call for intensified water conservation efforts, improved infrastructure, and policies aimed at ensuring water security for the region.
Accommodation Near Theewaterskloof Dam, Western Cape
Petit & Grande Plaisir
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Franschhoek
13.8km from Theewaterskloof Dam, Western CapePetit & Grande Plaisir Cottages provide self catering accommodation in Franschhoek, in the Cape Winelands and Breede River valley region of the Western Cape. We offer 3 self catering options: Petit Plaisir - Freestanding Self-catering cottage. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Le Ballon Rouge
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Franschhoek
14km from Theewaterskloof Dam, Western CapeLe Ballon Rouge Guest House offers bed and breakfast accommodation in the heart of Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands and Breede River Valley region in the Western Cape. Le Ballon Rouge offers 9 stylish and individually decorated rooms and one... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
22 Van Wijk Street Tourist Accommodation
Room Only / Limited SC Accommodation in Franschhoek
14.2km from Theewaterskloof Dam, Western Cape22 Van Wijk Street Tourism Accommodation provides room only accommodation in Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands and Breede River region in the Western Cape. Four lovely rooms in a pre-1910 house right in the center of Franschhoek. Two Double bed rooms... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Los Olivos
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Franschhoek
14.2km from Theewaterskloof Dam, Western CapeLos Olivos luxury self-catering penthouses have one of the best locations in the Franschhoek village. Everything is within walking distance. You can park in our off-street parking and you won’t need your car until the end of your stay. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Heuwelsig Cottages & Franschhoek Camping
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Franschhoek
18.9km from Theewaterskloof Dam, Western CapeHeuwelsig Cottages & Franschhoek Camping offers both self catering accommodation and special sites specifically for motorhomes in Franschhoek. Heuwelsig Cottages is situated on a working wine farm, surrounded by lush vineyard, orchards and scenic... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Val d Or Estate
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Franschhoek
20.8km from Theewaterskloof Dam, Western CapeVal d'Or Estate offers bed and breakfast and self catering accommodation in Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands and Breede River Valley region in the Western Cape. Nestled in the foothills of the magnificent Franschhoek mountains, a few minutes drive... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Lavender Cottages & Libertas House
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Elgin Valley Area
24.7km from Theewaterskloof Dam, Western CapeExperience self catering heaven in the heart of the Elgin Valley near Grabouw in the Overberg / Whale Coast region. We offer 3 cottages and a farmhouse, all on a self catering basis, set amongst orchards, offering spectacular views of the Elgin Valley... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Cheverells Farm Cottages
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Elgin Valley Area
24.7km from Theewaterskloof Dam, Western CapeCheverells Farm Cottages offers self catering accommodation in the heart of the Elgin Valley near Grabouw in the Overberg / Whale Coast region. Cheverells Farm Cottages are two self catering cottages set in the Orchards on a working apple and pear farm... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Zorgvliet Wines Country Lodge
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Stellenbosch
29.1km from Theewaterskloof Dam, Western CapeZorgvliet's warm and welcoming country lodge caters for the needs of every individual with exceptional attention to detail. This lodge offers guests an opportunity to truly experience the unique personality of the Stellenbosch winelands... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Lalapanzi Lodge
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Somerset West
29.8km from Theewaterskloof Dam, Western CapeOn a private 600 acre estate at the foot of the Hottentots Holland Mountain with outstanding views of False bay and Cape Point, Lalapanzi Lodge offers exclusive accommodation. This stylish vineyard retreat is the perfect place to unwind or use as a base. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
- Franschhoek Pass - Cape Winelands (11.02km)
- Haut Espoir Winery - Franschhoek, Cape Winelands (13.03km)
- Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve - nr Franschhoek, Cape Winelands (13.54km)
- Huguenot Memorial Monument - Franschhoek, Cape Winelands (13.62km)
- First South African Perfume Museum - Franschhoek (13.65km)
- Huguenot Memorial Museum - Franschhoek, Cape Winelands (13.65km)
- The Franschhoek Motor Museum - Franschhoek, Western Cape (13.90km)
- Franschhoek Bastille Festival - Cape Winelands (14.05km)
- Franschhoek Literary Festival - Cape Winelands (14.05km)
- Paradise Stables - Franschhoek, Cape Winelands (14.78km)
- Franschhoek Wine Tram - Cape Winelands (14.97km)
- Grande Provence Wine Estate - Franschhoek (16.21km)
- Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve - Overberg, Western Cape (17.43km)
- Green Mountain Trail - Elgin Valley, Overberg (18.86km)
