A Life Lived Less Hurriedly
The pace of life is often set by the natural water one finds near a settlement and, in Great Brak’s case, you need look no further than the river.
This tranquil and scenic town has taken shape around the Great Brak River over the centuries, and its slow flow down to the Indian Ocean makes for a life lived less hurriedly. Great Brak River is easy enough to miss when you bomb along the N2 highway midway between George and Mossel Bay. Here’s some advice: take time out to explore the pristine beaches, a safe lagoon perfect for kids, the quaint ‘Island’ with its wooden holiday homes and the widest Pepper Tree in South Africa.
Named for the Brackish Water
The town was named for the brackish water of the Great and Little Brak Rivers, where the dual estuary splits into two sandy channels. The village boomed in 1859 as businesses expanded around the old toll bridge built across the Great Brak River, and a good many historical buildings (such as the Searle Memorial Church and Searle Family Graveyard) still stand proudly.
December brings the usual rush to this peaceful hamlet, so rather pop in with the Southern Right and other whales between May and November. The river that divides the village is rich in marine life while its wooded banks offer excellent birding opportunities year round.
Footwear Did you know: Both Grasshopper and Watson Shoes have been produced on site since 1886 at the footwear company’s production facility in Great Brak.By Jacques Marais