Swellendam, the third oldest city in South Africa, lies at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains and has much to offer visitors interested in history, nature, the outdoors and art. Swellendam is ideally situated halfway between Cape Town and George and is therefore an ideal stopover for tourists. In these two hours from Cape Town to Swellendam, you will pass through unspoiled towns and cities. Take a journey back in time and stay in some of the area’s historic farmhouses and cottages, which offer bed and breakfast accommodation. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year and there is little wind and temperatures are moderate throughout the year.
Swellendam has been a major travel hub for centuries. Early travelers and explorers traded with the Khoi-Khoi people and in 1743 the Dutch East India Company declared Swellendam a magisterial district and built the Drostdy which was completed in 1747. This Drostdy, a national monument, is the only Drostdy of the century XVIII that is preserved. in its original form and will give tourists a wonderful insight into the life of the settlers.
The more adventurous tourist can go on the Swellendam walk. Located in and around the Marloth Nature Reserve, this hiking trail is one of the most beautiful on the Cape. There are numerous shorter routes if a six-day trek is too long for you. On this trail you will see sections of fynbos interspersed with fresh native forests, small animals and birds. Other sections of the trail will give you the feeling of being in a quiet and secluded wilderness. The six-day trek requires a medium to high level of fitness and is therefore not recommended for light-hearted people. Marloth Nature Reserve is also one of the best birding spots in the Western Cape and is therefore definitely worth a visit.
The rare and beautiful Bontebok antelope and other small deer species can be seen in Bontebok National Park. This park is only 6 km from Swellendam. A total of 126 different bird species have also been identified. There is a lovely caravan park on the banks of the Breede River, where fully equipped chalets are also rented and where day visitors can swim, fish or picnic.
In addition to hiking, the adventurous at heart can also enjoy a day or two of river rafting. The Breede River Rafting Adventure is about a 2.5-hour drive from Cape Town. On this adventure, you’ll spend your days paddling two-person Mohawk canoes on the calm waters of Breede and your nights socializing around a campfire. Up the Creek Camp is situated near Swellendam, on a hillside overlooking the river, where accommodation is either A-frame chalets or 3 bullock carts. This accommodation includes comfortable beds with linens and duvets. All in all, this adventure will be worth it and is ideal to enjoy with the family.
Young berry tasting can be done at Buffeljags Dam. This cultivated wild berry was imported to South Africa in 1939 by Professor OSH Reinecke. The industry is sadly in decline due to endless problems associated with wind and rain or excessive heat, pest attacks, and insufficient labor during the peak harvest period from mid-November to early December. Today, more than 90% of the total annual crop of just over 600 tonnes is produced by farmers in the Swellendam area. On your visit to Hermitage Liqueur Farm, just 3 km from the city, you can try some of the liqueurs made from young berries. Other Youngberry products are also for sale here.
Local artists such as potter Jan du Toit’s vases are famous, visit him and other artists in town.
Other activities that Swellendam has to offer include:
* 4×4 Mountain Experience: Marloth Nature Reserve
* Canoeing on the Breede River * Sunset cruises on a fully equipped double-decker wooden raft
* Buffeljachts dam for water sports
* Horse trails
* Whitewater raft on the Breede River
* Water skiing
* Several renowned artists have settled in Swellendam and their studios can be visited.
* Visit Sulina Fairy Sanctuary: Magical Fairy Garden and Exhibition
* Cruise on the Breede River on a double-decker riverboat – “Pot se Vlot” * Flights on motor gliders
As you can see, Swellendam is well worth a visit. Come and enjoy a few days of relaxation in our beautiful town while we take care of all your needs.
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