SWELLENDAM
what to do | where to stay | where to eat | services | home Swellendam is the third oldest settlement in South Africa after Cape Town and Stellenbosch and is often referred to as the historical heart of the Overberg and gateway to the Garden Route. The Dutch East India Company founded the town in 1745 as the last outpost of civilisation on the eastern frontier. By the middle of the 19th century, British settlers had colonized the eastern districts and Swellendam became a thriving centre serving travellers on their long journey up the coast. Situated at the foot of the magnificent Langeberg Mountains, it is a popular tourist destination for travellers between Cape Town and George on the N2. The Hermitage Valley is the largest youngberry producer in the country and visitors are invited to try some liqueur and other berry product tasting. It is not only famous for its youngberries, but also for the picturesque Koornlands River, its ancient oak trees, architecture, stately whitewashed homesteads, its fascinating past and great outdoor life. Outdoor adventurers have many activities to choose from: backpacking in the mountains, visit the Marloth Nature Reserve, the Bontebok National Park which is home to the endangered bontebok, De Hoop Nature Reserve or tour the wine route of the Breede River Valley, Montague and the Klein Karoo. For the avid golfer, A lovely 9 hole golf course with magnificent views of the Langeberg Mountains can be found just outside the town. Other activities in the area include: canoeing, water-skiing and the “watersnake”on the Buffeljachts Dam, Pot Se Vlot’s double decker river boat on the Breede River, Two Feathers horse trails, mountain biking, abseiling, 4x4 adventures and much more! A variety of accommodation to suit every taste, including luxury guest houses, Bed and Breakfast establishments, chalets, caravan and camping facilities as well as self-catering cottages on farms in the area can be found in the area. The restaurants are a culinary delight with many fine restaurants and coffee shops on offer. Swellendam Tourism Info
what to do | where to stay | where to eat | services | home 
We have also included information on the following categories of accommodation in the Garden Route: Accommodation in the Garden Route from 5 star to self catering Eco Friendly accommodation in the Garden Route Budget accommodation in the Garden Route Kid and family friendly accommodation in the Garden Route Wedding accommodation in the Garden Route Pensioners accommodation in the Garden Route |