Why Darling lives up to its unusual name
Olden-day charm and modern-day elements marry in this Darling town.
A salty gust from the Atlantic Ocean ripples over golden wheat fields, through massive turbines, and into the heart of Darling. Just 15 kilometres from the West Coast shoreline is a place unlike any other. Bearing strong agricultural roots, this community prides itself on keeping things fresh. With its lush vineyards, sprawling farms, and a love for the theatre and contemporary arts, the town lives up to its unusual name.
Darling was founded on Langfontein farm in 1853. For more than a century, locals have protected its natural beauty, so it’s little wonder that 1 200 species of plants grow in this region. Every spring, the Darling Wildflower Show celebrates the landscape’s floral diversity, attracting visitors from across South Africa. The marvels of this land don’t end there. Towering windmills harvest the breeze at Darling Wind Farm and are easily recognisable from the roads beside it. Here, every element enhances the earth’s abundance. At Alexanderfontein Estate, stop by Darling Olives to sample their chutney, antipasto and marmalade.
While the rest of Darling is characterised by grand Victorian homes, the buildings on Akkerboom Road have experienced a remarkable transformation. More than 31 murals grace these walls as part of a project initiated by graffiti artist Falko One. On Saturdays, the air is filled with the sound of band rehearsals by Darling Music for All. They’ve been providing free music lessons for people in the community for over a decade.
Downtown, iconic actor Pieter-Dirk Uys has revitalised the railway station on Arcadia Street. Evita se Perron is now a restaurant, theatrical hub, and one of Darling’s most notable venues. In honour of Uys’ much-loved persona, Evita Bezuidenhout, Darling Sweet named one of their creations Tannie Evita’s Classic Toffee. Watch treats being handcrafted in their tasting room or pop into The Toffee Gallery next door to discover curated exhibitions from across the country and abroad.
This delightful getaway is a feast for the mind, body, and soul. Step into Darling and discover a town defined by its eccentricity.
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Main image courtesy of Beautiful News