The rise of the digital nomad lifestyle has rewritten the rules of where—and how—we work. With just a laptop and a good internet connection, the whole world becomes your office. But why settle for crowded cities and noisy cafés when you could be answering emails with a mountain view, wrapping up meetings just in time for a beach sunset, or brainstorming your next big idea while sipping coffee in a friendly village cafe?
Welcome to the Bergrivier region—a hidden gem just a short scenic drive from Cape Town that blends connectivity, natural beauty, and small-town charm into the ultimate remote working experience.
From Velddrif and Laaiplek by the sea to the mountains of Piketberg and the rolling countryside of Aurora and Porterville, Bergrivier offers digital nomads a chance to work, live, and really breathe. Here’s why you should pack your laptop and come stay awhile:
Velddrif & Laaiplek: River Views, Coastal Breezes, and Easy Living
Set where the Berg River meets the Atlantic Ocean, Velddrif and Laaiplek are a paradise for those who love a coastal lifestyle. Famous for its historic Bokkomlaan—a heritage site and riverside road lined with local fish-drying sheds —Velddrif offers plenty of inspiration between meetings. Take a boat cruise down the river, kayak through the estuary, or simply stroll along the harbour at sunset.
For nature lovers, Velddrif is a top birdwatching destination, especially around the Ramsar-listed estuary, where you can spot flamingos, pelicans, and hundreds of other species. Dwarskersbos, just a few minutes’ drive away, offers wide sandy beaches perfect for peaceful morning walks (or a quick surf session if you’re feeling adventurous). If you are into water sports, then this area is a must – windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, sailing – the list goes on.
Markets, riverside restaurants, pet-friendly cafés, and stunning views make Velddrif and Laaiplek an unbeatable base for work-life balance.
Aurora: Starry Skies, Wide Spaces, and Total Peace
If deep tranquillity is what you seek, the picturesque village of Aurora is your haven. Nestled between rolling hills and surrounded by untouched nature, Aurora offers the kind of peace that encourages creativity, mindfulness, and deep focus.
Hike the Danielshoogte Private Reserve trails to enjoy panoramic views over fynbos-covered landscapes, perfect for clearing your mind after a day of screen time. By night, prepare for some of the best stargazing imaginable—far from city lights, the skies above Aurora are nothing short of breathtaking.
In Aurora, you’ll find cosy self-catering cottages and a warm village welcome, offering the perfect reset for remote workers needing to reconnect with nature and themselves.
Piketberg: Heritage, Wine, and Mountain Views
Craving crisp mountain air and a rich sense of history? Piketberg is calling.
Nestled at the foot of its namesake mountain, this charming town is known for its beautifully preserved architecture and its relaxed, small-town feel. Spend your lunch breaks wandering the Piketberg Historical Route, passing the neo-gothic church, heritage cottages, and fascinating museum, or head out for a scenic drive to explore historic mission villages like Goedverwacht and Wittewater.
Piketberg also offers organic wine tastings at Org-de-Rac and beautiful hiking and mountain biking trails in the Piket-Bo-Berg area. Foodies and fresh-produce fans will love the monthly Piket-Bo-Berg Farmers Market—perfect for stocking up on local artisanal goods and homemade treats.
Quiet, scenic, and surprisingly sophisticated, Piketberg offers a slower pace of life without ever feeling disconnected.
Porterville: Creativity, Adventure, and Mountain Magic
At the base of the Groot Winterhoek mountains lies Porterville—a town bursting with creativity, charm, and outdoor adventure. Home to an exciting arts scene, including open studios and an annual art festival, Porterville is perfect for digital nomads looking to balance work with artistic inspiration.
Thrill-seekers can paraglide off Dasklip Pass, hike to cascading waterfalls, or camp overnight in wild nature at Beaverlac. Ginsmith’s distillery on the mountain adds another flavourful local experience, where you can sample artisanal gin made with indigenous botanicals.
Porterville also offers an abundance of accommodation options, including stunning mountain retreats—ideal for those who want to mix remote working with true outdoor living.
Why Bergrivier Works for Digital Nomads
- Reliable Wi-Fi across the region: Almost all accommodation options and eateries offer fast and dependable internet, so you’ll stay connected wherever you choose to work.
- Formal meeting spaces when needed: Several lodges, hotels, and resorts offer meeting rooms and conferencing facilities, ideal for hosting business gatherings if needed.
These include:
- Draaihoek Lodge (Velddrif)
- Charlie’s Brewhouse (Velddrif)
- Riviera Hotel (Velddrif)
- Laaiplek Hotel (Laaiplek)
- Dunn’s Castle (Piketberg)
- Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort (Piketberg)
- Highlands Eco Estate (Piketberg)
- Flyers Lodge (Porterville)
- Diverse accommodation: Choose from stylish guesthouses, self-catering houses, eco-lodges, boutique hotels, and cosy chalets.
- Affordability: Well-priced stays, especially outside of peak holiday seasons, mean you can work remotely longer without blowing your budget.
- Easy access to Cape Town and the International airport: Bergrivier is linked to the city and the airport by well-maintained highways, making day trips or quick business trips easy.
- Friendly locals and great amenities: Local markets, cafés, farm stalls, and restaurants offer everything you need for daily life—and a strong sense of community.
- Natural beauty on your doorstep: From beach strolls and mountain hikes to river kayaking and birdwatching, the Bergrivier landscape keeps life vibrant and inspiring.
Stay Awhile, Work Well, Live Fully
If you’re looking for a destination where work feels like part of an adventure—and where weekends turn into mini-holidays—then Bergrivier is the place for you. Fresh air, freedom, friendly faces, and all the modern essentials you need to thrive as a digital nomad.
So, what are you waiting for? Set up your new remote office in Bergrivier, and let your best work—and life—begin.
For more information visit www.bergriviertourism.co.za.
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