Swellendam, a No. 1 Destination When Visiting South Africa!
THE CAPE OVERBERG, WESTERN CAPE, SOUTH AFRICA, Part One
Once you’ve arrived at Cape Town International Airport, collected the vehicle for your journey, you might spend a few days in Cape Town. However, soon you will head away from the city bustle, over the Hottentots-Holland Mountains via Sir Lowry’s Pass to continue your adventure. The drive to your destination will only take a couple of hours, as it winds through orchards, grain fields, canola fields, olive groves and vineyards, all surrounded by rolling mountains and valleys. The scenery is incredible.
My Travel Tip: Never travel without the following 8 items, a hat, sunglasses, water, sunblock, a light jacket, camera, snacks and comfy shoes.
Once “over the berg”, the Elgin valley is one of South Africa’s largest apple growing regions and you will want to stop at a farm stall, (padstalle) selling beautiful fresh local produce. Don’t miss out on the fresh fruit, farm breads and cheeses.
The Overberg stretches from the Hottentots-Holland Mountains in the west, to Swellendam in the east. In the north it reaches as far as the Riviersonderend Mountains and runs south to include a breathtakingly beautiful coastline.
From Elgin and Grabouw, the N2 winds its way through the incredible Houw Hoek Pass en route to Bot River. Here your journey can either continue inland, via Caledon and Riviersonderend to Swellendam, or south towards a coastline that is rich in beauty and one of the most famous coastlines in the country. Enjoy this stunning scenic drive another time, today it’s on to Swellendam your our No. 1 destination.
This country town, hidden under old oak trees and shadowed by the Langeberg Mountains, is yet to be discovered by the world. There are several hiking, cycling and easy walking trails into the mountains, where fresh, clear streams, make perfect summer cool off swimming pools. Truly an adventure hotspot!
The top notch cycling routes in the Overberg, especially in and around Swellendam, have encouraged the growth of super cycling events. These include annually, the Coronation Double Century and The Trans Cape MTB Series, and with a controlling body, who organise these races, the area has become a competitor’s paradise. Events like the endurance road cycling races have been bringing keen cyclists to this area for a long time and they become more popular every year.
From locally produced honey and soap, from berry and chilli jam to artisan bread, Swellendam is home to artists to small business owners, a most diverse group of beautiful people. People here have passion and the will to succeed, sharing their happiness with and supporting the community.
A trending term is that Swellendam has it all!
If your question is, for how long should I visit? One night is not long enough, is our answer.
(Aan de Leisure Collection owns and manages a variety of establishments in various places that range from bed and breakfasts to self – catering units. We specialize in all travellers’ accommodation needs, for international and domestic guests, corporate or leisure. Our establishments offer something for everyone, tailored to suit your every need. Our accommodation ranges from, cheaper budget bedrooms and deals, amazing group and family options, affordable short breaks, to luxurious stays and romantic getaways. We strive for service excellence and accommodation made perfect! Don’t hesitate to contact us for a comfy stay, with a relaxed atmosphere and outstanding service.)
Main Photo Credit To, Carlo Jorge, an exceptional photographer and brilliant videographer. Have a look at his work, it will not disappoint, https://cfjphotography.co.za/photography/
