Swellendam

Swellendam is one of the oldest towns in South Africa which still supports the farming legacy for which it was originally populated. This fertile valley surrounded by the Langeberg Mountains creates a patchwork of colours that keep changing with the seasons. The canola fields turn bright yellow in spring and the wheat changes from green to golden in November.

Having begun life in the 1700’s, Swellendam has a wealth of historic buildings, with architecture ranging from Cape Dutch to Victorian and many other styles. Most buildings are in good condition and together with the tree lined shady streets make this is a gem of a town. The abundance and variety of coffee shops, restaurants, art galleries and attractions caters to the visitors of today as it did all those years ago.

Things to do in Swellendam:

Visit the historical areas of Voortrek Street, Van Oudtshoorn Street and Swellengrebel Street all leading to the Cape Dutch Drostdy Museum.

Kunste Huijs fine art gallery sources and displays the original work of more than 60 South African artists. There are also pottery studios and craft shops in town.

The Sulina Faerie Sanctuary is a wonderland of fairies, gnomes, wizards, unicorns, elves and butterflies and much more.

Bontebok National Park is a nature reserve of simplistic beauty and peaceful charm. Home to bontebok, mountain zebra, grey rhebok, bat-eared foxes, geometric tortoises and over 200 bird species.

The Marloth Nature Reserve lies within the rugged and scenic southern Langeberg mountain range near Swellendam and is popular for scenic day walks, cycle trails, horse riding and just having a braai and relaxing in the beautiful environment.

The Stormsvlei Farm Stall & Restaurant are idyllically situated next to Stormsvlei Country Flowers, the legendary dried flowers of Mary Spies. The food is fresh and local and the menu is just right for travellers taking some time out.

Wildebraam Berry Estate – Swellendam is the largest youngberry growing area in the country. Wildebraam is in the heart of the Hermitage Valley, just 3km out of town.

East of Swellendam on the Tradouw River is the picturesque old village and mission station of Suurbraak with its oak-lined streets and charming cottages.