Local History
Often referred to as the ‘Diamond Way’ between Cape Town and Kimberly, Victoria West is home to a number of historical and cultural artifacts dating back to the 19th century.
The beautiful Dutch Reformed Church that stands in town was originally built in 1850, and features exquisite stained-windows depicting scenes from the Christian bible. The history of the church is set out at the Victoria West Regional Museum, which displays documents, photographs, maps, Bibles, items of the first Communion Service and the church's first organ. The church was declared a National Monument in 1992.
The museum also houses excellent historical and archaeological exhibits and interesting displays of fossils, including the 250-million-year-old Atherstonia Seeleyi fossilised fish, which is the most complete of its kind ever found anywhere in the world.
Apollo Theatre
Known as the last example of an art deco cinema in South Africa, the Apollo Theatre in Victoria West has undergone some renovations and now stands proudly as a quirky theatre beloved by culture fundies throughout the country.
The theatre’s takes visitors back to the 1920s Art Deco era; the flapper fashion movement, and all things elegant, engulfed with clouds of cigarette smoke and bluesy jazz. The restaurant has an a-la-carte menu that features some classic favourites and vintage options. There is also a shop where fascinating keepsakes can be explored and bought.
The Apollo Theatre is home to the Apollo Development Association, which is aimed at uplifting impoverished local communities through workshops, charity events and donations. The Apollo Film Festival is one such charity event which hosts local films to be showcased and enjoyed. It was proclaimed a national monument in the 2000s.
Nature Reserve
The Victoria West Nature Reserve on the outskirts of the town incorporates the Victoria West Dam and a number of antelope and other wildlife species endemic to the Karoo can be seen. The nature reserve is also an important breeding area for the endangered Riverine rabbit.
The dam is a birding hotspot and there is an excellent viewing spot above the dam wall at the end of Church Street as the road climbs the end of the valley towards Loxton. The Moonlight Hill and Ribbok Plateau walking trails provide expansive views across the town and the Victoria West Dam.