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Swellendam Places of Interest
Historical Builsings – Swellendam has many old buildings, some of which date from the 18th century, but many more were built during the town’s boom years in the mid-19th century. The Tourism Bureau has a pamphlet, "Swellendam Treasures", which provides the visitor with interesting snippets of information about the National Monument Buildings in the town and surroundings. There are also several interesting buildings dating from the beginning of the 20th century, the most noteworthy being the Dutch Refored ‘Moederkerk" with its eclectic architectural features, including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and vernacular Cape elements.
The Drostdy Museum – The open-air complex of the Drostdy Museum consists of several historic buildings including official, town and country dwellings. The Drostdy itself reflects the official history of the district from a Dutch East India Company outpost to a prosperous town under British Colonial rule. It is renowned for its fine collection of late 18th and early 19th century Cape furniture. There is also a restaurant in a re-constructed farmhouse as well as a gift shop in the old gaol building. For more information contact the Director at Tel 028 514 1138.
Bontebok National Park – The rare and beautiful Bontebok antelope and other small buck species can be seen at this park, which is only 6km out of Swellendam. A total of 126 different bird species have also been identified here. There is a charming caravan park on the banks of the Breede River where they also have fully equipped chalavans for hire and where day visitors are welcome to swim, fish or picnic. Reservations may be made through the National Parks Board jor contact the Park Warden at Tel: 028 5142735.
Marloth Nature Reserve – Situated along the southern slopes of the Langeberg Mountains, the Marloth Reserve is a botanist’s dream with an abundance if wild flowers and fynbos. Hiking trails have been established and for those who with to undertake the entire 81km trail, there are six huts positioned at regular intervals. There are also several day walks. For more information contact the Conservation Officer at Tel: 028 514 1410.
De Hoop/Potberg Nature Reserve – This unique reserve has seven distinct eco-systems and the De Hoop Vlei is a sanctuary for waterfowl and other birds. This is an excellent spot to view the Southern Right Whales with their calves from August – November. A few cottages and camping facilities are available. For more information, call the Nature Conservation Officer at Tel: 028 542 1126.
Malgas – The hand-drawn pontoon ever the Breede River at Malgas, 40km from Swellendam, is believed to be the last remaining pont operation in Soujth Africe. It operates every day during daylight hours.
Suurbraak – This old mission village, near the foot jof the Tradouw Pass, lies in a picturesque valley 25 km beyond Swellendam and dates from 1812.
Tradouw Pass – A 315m high mountain pass of gret scenic splendour and well worth a visit.
Outdoor Activities – All the usual sporting facilities are available and visitors are welcome to join the members at the various clubs. In addition, horse-riding, canoeing and other water sport can be arranged. Rafts for larger groups are on the Buffeljags Dam and also the Breede River. There are also mountain bike trails in the area.
Two feathers Horse Trails – From rides of one hour to 5 day wilderness trails, accompanied by experienced guides. Cell: 082 4948279/082 9569452
Artists – Several well-known artists have settled in Swellendam and their studios may be visited
Sulina Faerie Sanctuary – Magical faerie display and garden. Open every day, excepting Mondays, from 0900 – 17h00; during school holidays, open 7 days a week Tel: 028 514 1786
Country Flowers – At Stormsvlei (+- 40km from Swellendam on the N2 towards Cape Town), where flowers are grown and preserved fro export and floral gifts are sold. Tel: 028 261 1289 Fax: 028 261 168
Breede River Bird Gardens – View numerous different bird species on a farm 3 km out of Swellendam on the N2 Tel:028 514 1673
Hermitage Liqueur Farm – Swellendam is the largest Youngberry growing area in the country and a farm just 3 km out of town may be visited for liqueur tasting. Other Youngberry products are also for sale: Call Kosie or Natalie van Zyl at Tel:028 514 3132