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Good morning Somerset westers! I hope everyone had a lovely weekend. Let's kick off the week with the latest news, hidden gems, and community happenings from around the Helderberg.
In today’s edition:
Hiker Rescued After 20-Metre Fall
UNIQ Opens at Somerset Mall
The 7 Best Winter Escapes Near Cape Town
Activity of the week
Local Sports
Events happening
Weekend’s Weather
-Karl Berger
News
Hiker Rescued After 20-Metre Fall
A local hiker is recovering after a dramatic late-night rescue in the Helderberg Nature Reserve, where emergency teams found him unconscious after he fell an estimated 15 to 20 metres from a hiking trail.
The rescue operation was launched after members of the public reported hearing cries for help. Assisted by the Western Cape EMS Drone Unit, rescuers quickly located the hiker using thermal imaging before medical teams treated him on the mountain and carried him to safety. The incident was one of three mountain rescues carried out across Cape Town that night by Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) volunteers and partner agencies.
The successful rescue highlights the dedication of emergency services and serves as an important reminder for hikers to plan ahead, avoid hiking alone where possible, and carry the necessary safety equipment when exploring local trails.
Click here: to read more about the rescue mission
UNIQ Opens at Somerset Mall
UNIQ Clothing by Checkers has officially opened a new store at Somerset Mall, marking the brand's arrival in Somerset West as it continues expanding its retail footprint across South Africa.
The Somerset Mall branch stocks clothing for men, women, and children, with a focus on everyday essentials. The opening forms part of UNIQ's broader national expansion strategy, following the launch of several new stores in recent months. The brand is owned by the Shoprite Group, which introduced UNIQ to offer affordable, quality clothing through standalone retail stores.
The 7 Best Winter Escapes Near Cape Town
Winter is the perfect time to slow down, light a fireplace, and explore somewhere new.
From cosy mountain retreats to charming coastal towns, there are plenty of destinations just a short drive from Cape Town that are ideal for a winter escape.
Here are seven great winter getaways:
Franschhoek – Cosy wine farms, fine dining, and mountain views
Ceres – Snow-capped peaks, fruit farms, and crisp winter mornings
Hermanus – Whale watching and scenic coastal walks
Greyton – A peaceful village with cafés, hiking trails, and fireplaces
Tulbagh – Historic charm surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery
Montagu – Hot springs, hiking, and boutique guesthouses
Paternoster – Fresh seafood and a quiet West Coast atmosphere
Whether you're planning a romantic weekend away or a family road trip, these destinations offer the perfect excuse to embrace the cooler weather and explore the Western Cape.
Click here: to check out these great winter getaways
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CatHeaven
Africa's First Rescue Cat Café Is Right Here in Somerset West
If you're a cat lover, this is one experience you won't want to miss.
Cat Heaven Gift Shop is home to 22 rescued cats and was the first rescue cat café on the African continent. Every visit helps support the care of the resident cats while giving visitors the chance to relax with some furry company.
Here's what you can expect:
Spend time with 22 rescued cats in a relaxed café setting
Coffee, cakes, toasties, and light meals available
Africa's largest cat-themed gift shop
Entry is just R30 per hour
Support a local non-profit caring for rescued cats
Whether you're looking for a unique date idea, a peaceful afternoon, or simply some quality time with cats, it's one of Somerset West's most unique attractions.
📍 Cat Heaven Gift Shop
Click here: to check out CatHeaven
Local Sports News
Wednesday Night Rugby Returns to Charles Morkel Stadium
Looking for something to do on Wednesday evening? Helderberg Rugby Club is back under the lights for another exciting Wednesday Night Lights clash.
Helderberg will take on Maties Rugby Club in a big WP Super League A fixture, with all three senior teams in action.
Here's what's happening:
🏉 Helderberg vs Maties
📅 Wednesday, 29 July 2026
📍 Charles Morkel Stadium
🕡 U20s: 18:25
🕢 2nd Team: 19:40
🕘 1st Team: 21:00
The club is encouraging supporters to fill the stands and get behind Helderberg for what promises to be a great night of local rugby.
Events coming up this week (27 July-2 Aug)
Summer Drum Club – Helderberg | 17:00–19:15, July 28
Location: Gordon's Bay Yacht Club, Gordon's Bay
Description:
Warm up your winter evening with the rhythmic energy of the Summer Drum Club at Gordon's Bay Yacht Club. This interactive drumming session welcomes participants of all experience levels to explore rhythm, connect with others, and enjoy the uplifting power of music in a relaxed setting.
Polymer Clay Jewelry Workshop | 18:00–20:30, July 29
Location: Artjamming Somerset West
Description:
Discover the art of polymer clay jewellery in this fun, hands-on evening workshop at Artjamming Somerset West. Guided by Inge from Look Up! Handmade, you'll learn the basics of working with polymer clay while designing and creating your own unique earrings, pendants, charms, or other wearable pieces.
Jack Parow, Van Pletzen & Die FakBoiz Live | 17:00, August 1
Location: Daisy Jones Bar, Stellenbosch
Description:
Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon as South African music icons Jack Parow, Van Pletzen, and Die FakBoiz take over the stage at Daisy Jones Bar. Expect high-energy performances, crowd-favourite hits, and an electric atmosphere as three of the country's biggest acts deliver an explosive live show.
GBYC 80's Party | 19:00, August 1
Location: Gordon's Bay Yacht Club, Gordon's Bay
Description:
Step back in time for a night of retro fun at the GBYC 80's Party. Dress in your favourite 80s outfit, hit the dance floor, and enjoy an evening packed with classic hits, great company, and nostalgic vibes at Gordon's Bay Yacht Club.
Events coming up next week (3-9 Aug)
L’Ermitage Wellness Retreat with Gigi | August 3–8
Location: L’Ermitage Franschhoek Château & Villas, Franschhoek
Description:
Escape to the Cape Winelands for six days of relaxation, renewal, and personal growth at the L’Ermitage Wellness Retreat with Gigi. Set against the tranquil backdrop of Franschhoek, this immersive retreat is designed to help you reconnect with yourself through a carefully curated programme of wellness activities, mindfulness, and restorative experiences.
Bruce Springsteen Tribute Show | 20:30, August 8
Location: Triggerfish Brewing, Somerset West
Description:
Experience the timeless music of Bruce Springsteen in an intimate tribute performance at Triggerfish Brewing. Performed by Radio Echo featuring Jack Stone, the show captures the emotion, storytelling, and iconic sound of The Boss through heartfelt renditions of his greatest hits.
Galpalooza 2026 | 12:00–23:00, August 9
Location: Daisy Jones Bar, Stellenbosch
Description:
Celebrate Women's Day at Galpalooza 2026, a vibrant one-day festival dedicated to honouring the incredible women of South Africa's music and creative scene. Hosted at Daisy Jones Bar, the festival features an exciting lineup of live performances, creative talent, and a welcoming atmosphere where everyone is invited to join the celebration.
