Swellendam – Steeped in History
Located in the Overberg region of the Western Cape, halfway between George and Cape Town, the picturesque town of Swellendam lies at the foot of the majestic Langeberg Mountains. As the third-oldest immigrant settlement in South Africa, Swellendam is steeped in history, which is reflected in the town’s many architectural treasures, and is surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty.
The Drostdy Museum in Swellendam consists of a number of historic buildings, giving visitors insight into the colorful history of the town and its surroundings. The museum complex also houses restaurants, a craft shop and an art gallery.
Activities in the area include 4×4 trails, horse riding, bird watching, hiking and mountain biking, as well as a range of water sports on the nearby Buffeljachts Dam or the Breede River. Moreover, Swellendam is close to no less than four nature reserves – Marloth, Bontebok, Grootvadersbosch and the De Hoop Marine Park and Nature Reserve – and is within easy driving distance from other noteworthy attractions, such as Cape Agulhas and Struisbaai, making this peaceful little town the perfect base from which to explore the area.
