Third Oldest Town in SA
Swellendam, the third oldest town in South Africa, nestles within the immediate foothills of the spectacular Langeberg ranges situated centrally within the Overberg region. These magnificent mountains lie parallel to the Indian Ocean to overshadow the fertile Breede River valley, arguably one of the Western Cape’s most scenic waterways.
This is a true agricultural dorp, with bakkies lining the main street and a co-op where farmers in khaki shorts congregate to sip on a cup of ‘boeretroos’ while discussing the weather. Originally founded by the Dutch East India Company in 1745, Swellendam is famed for gracious architecture, the grandeur of its mountains and, to a lesser extent, for being the largest youngberry cultivation region in the world.
It serves as the agricultural hub for the entire region, with vegetables, citrus, persimmons, canola, milk, cheese, peppers and even lavender flourishing in its temperate climate. Swellendam’s setting on the N2 two hours from Cape Town makes it a popular tourist stop on the way to the Garden Route, with excellent restaurants and accommodation establishments.
A Place Called Paradise
Once you’ve taken in more than 50 provincial heritage sites (mostly Cape Dutch buildings), the two nature reserves (Marloth Nature Reserve and Sanbona Wildlife Reserve) as well as the Bontebok National Park are alternate outdoor destinations worth exploring.
A few kilometres away is Suurbraak, a place called ‘Paradise’, where time has stood still. Traditional farming methods are still practiced, coal ovens are still used for baking and many households own at least one cow and some horses. Horse and donkey drawn carts are often seen on the street. The isolation of Suurbraak is one of its many charms, and the inhabitants are friendly and welcoming.
Scenic Area
The greater Swellendam area offers a peaceful and relaxing destination with untouched fynbos and stunning endemic birds.
The climate is ideal, with long lazy summer days. Winter has occasional storms and showers but still enjoys mild temperatures. The Langeberg Mountains are breathtakingly beautiful in winter when the tops are covered in snow.
Visit the undulating coastal plains beyond and you will discover a multitude of nature reserves, private conservancies and wilderness areas as well as the Bontebok National Park. A scattering of historic towns, rural dorps and mission villages boast award-winning accommodation establishments, excellent restaurants, arts and crafts studios, vernacular architecture, national monuments and an awesome outdoor environment, all set within secure country surrounds.
When headed to the Overberg, you’ll find a graveyard of ships and floral riches beyond compare along a coastline patrolled by great white ...