The third-oldest town in South Africa sits at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains. Founded in 1745, it has preserved Cape Dutch buildings and the Drostdy Museum.
Swellendam sits at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains, 220 km east of Cape Town. You can walk through the 18th-century Drostdy Museum's gardens, spot rare bontebok antelopes in the national park, or climb mountain trails to 1,500-meter peaks. Every Saturday morning, local farmers sell fresh youngberries, jams, and handmade crafts at the Under The Oaks Market.
Getting to Swellendam
Swellendam lies on the N2 highway, making it an ideal stop between Cape Town and the Garden Route. The drive from Cape Town takes about 2.5 hours, while George is about 3 hours away. The town stretches along a tributary of the Breede River, with most attractions concentrated within walking distance of the town center.
Wildlife at Bontebok National Park
Bontebok National Park started with just 17 bontebok in 1931 and now maintains a healthy population of South Africa's rarest antelope species. The 28 square kilometer park has Cape mountain zebras, grey rhebok, and over 200 bird species. You can walk through trails in the fynbos vegetation, swim in the Breede River, or go canoeing.
Hiking the Langeberg Mountains
Marloth Nature Reserve's Twaalfuurkop Trail climbs to peaks reaching 1,500 meters, while the shorter Duiwelsbos Trail leads through indigenous forests. Along the Koloniesbos Trail, you might spot the rare forest emperor butterfly or endemic ghost frogs. The trails range from 2-hour walks to 3-day hikes through the mountains.
Local Food and Markets
Under The Oaks Market runs every Saturday morning from 9 AM to 1 PM. Local farmers sell fresh produce and herbs, while craftspeople display wooden items, pottery, and textiles. In the Hermitage Valley around Swellendam, farmers grow South Africa's largest crop of youngberries. You can buy youngberry jams and liqueurs directly from farm shops.
Historical Buildings
The Drostdy Museum complex includes the former magistrate's residence from 1747, the old jail, and Mayville House. Inside, you'll find period furniture and exhibits about early colonial life. The Dutch Reformed Church, built in 1911, has Italian Baroque towers and French Gothic windows, with a striking white facade visible from most parts of town.
Seasonal Activities
January and February temperatures reach 30°C, ideal for swimming and hiking. April and May are mild with occasional rain. In June and July, temperatures drop to 5-15°C, with snow sometimes visible on mountain peaks. Wildflowers start blooming across the region from August.
Whale Watching at Witsand
From June to November, southern right whales swim in the protected bays of Witsand, 50 kilometers from Swellendam. September and October are peak months for whale watching, when mothers and calves often swim close to shore. You can watch these marine mammals from several designated viewing points along the coast.
