The Overberg Explorer: A Steam-Powered Revival Rooted in Community Spirit

What started as a hopeful idea from one community member has grown into a story of collaboration, heritage, and rural revival. The Overberg Explorer — a newly launched steam train experience running between Botrivier Station and the Elgin Railway Market — is more than just a train ride. It’s a symbol of what can happen when a small town rallies behind a big idea.

In 2023, Susan van Dyk, organiser of the Botrivier Country Market, approached Ceres Rail Company with a bold and imaginative idea: bring a steam train to Botrivier to complement the growing market culture and breathe life back into the station district. Her vision was compelling and quickly gained traction.

By early 2025, planning was fully underway. The vision grew from a rail trip into a much larger community revitalisation initiative, aiming to create jobs, attract tourism, and reawaken pride in the Botrivier station precinct.

While the train plays a key role in the experience, the success of the Overberg Explorer rests on the people who made it happen.

Perhaps the most remarkable part of the story is the overwhelming support from the community.

Without being asked, residents and local businesses showed up to:

• Tend to the gardens and clean the station grounds
• Clear and prepare parking areas
• Sponsor supplies like paint, tar, and tools
• Offer their time, energy, and enthusiasm to get the district ready

Local businesses continue to champion the cause, helping with signage, community awareness, and joint promotional offers.

The first Overberg Explorer trains depart on 26 April 2025, with two departures per day over the long weekend (09h00 and 13h30). Tickets are:

• R295 for Adults
• R180 for Children (17 & under)
• Free for kids under 3

Tickets are available online at www.ceresrail.co.za or in person at the Shuntin Shed (ticket sales open 7 April).

Botrivier is making this a full-day experience. On the station grounds and nearby, you’ll find:

• Botrivier Country Market – with fresh produce and handmade goods
• The Shuntin Shed – a retro diner and bar right on the tracks
• Botrivier Hotel – Historic bar, wood-fired pizzas, unique train packages, and signature PaardenKloof wine pairings
• The Trading Post Botrivier – family-friendly coffee spot with a playground and pizzas
• GT Carwash – a professional crew with the knack for cleaning your car better than you can

The Overberg Explorer is just the beginning — not just of a train journey, but of a broader story about community-led tourism, economic upliftment, and heritage in motion.

Come ride with us, and experience the heart of Botrivier the way it was always meant to be: full of steam, soul, and small-town spirit.