Nestling at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains, Swellendam has much to offer visitors who have an interest in history, nature and outdoor activities. Situated on the N2, approximately 240km from both Cape Town and George, Swellendam is the perfect choice for a halfway stopover or as a base from which to explore the area.

Swellendam offers a variety of accommodation to suit every taste. This range includes one hotel, luxury guest houses, Bed and Breakfast establishments, chalets, caravan and camping facilities as well as self-catering cottages on farms in the area.

he Buffeljachts Dam allows for much entertainment. Taking a sunset cruise on the sparkling water aboard a fully kitted-out double decker wooden raft is an unforgettable experience. A catering service is available and a braai on board can also be arranged.

This town is home to its very own magical Faerie Sanctuary which is open every day except Mondays, when the faeries take time to rest. It is also home to many famous artists who get inspiration from these beautiful surrounds. The Drostdy Museum Complex is worth a visit to gain some insight into the town's history.

Horse -riding, gliding, canoeing, mountain-biking and waterskiing are but some of the activities Swellendam has to offer.

For the more extreme traveller, there is a fuffi-slide and watersnake. One can also go for a ride on a motor-glider and take a twenty minute flight alongside the birds, soaring above the majestic Langeberg mountains.

Rainfall is spread over the year (55% winter and 45% summer). There is little wind and temperatures are moderate. There is no shortage of water and gardens are lush and luxuriant. The cost of living is reasonable and the town is clean and efficiently and well run.

After Cape Town and Stellenbosch, Swellendam is the third oldest settlement in South Africa. Laying at the foot of the beautiful Langeberg mountains this place is not only famous for its youngberries, but as well as for its architecture and its history.

The town is situated halfway between Cape Town and George on the N2. Swellendam was founded by the Dutch East India Company in the year 1745.

The town and its district was named after the governor of the Cape and his wife, Hendrik Swellengrebel and Helena Ten Damme. In time, a village was established opposite the Drostdy, across the Koornlands River, where artisans, including numerous wainwrights, and traders settled. To travellers and explorers, the services of these village folk were indispensable, as Swellendam was the last outpost of civilisation on the eastern frontier.

By the middle of the 19th century, the eastern districts has been colonized by British settlers and Swellendam was a thriving metropolis. The town served as a useful refreshment station on the long slow journey up the coast. Nowadays, in addition to serving its local and surrounding community, Swellendam glories in its past by continuing to offer travellers the services they require for rest and relaxation on their travels.

Swellendam offers a variety of accommodation to suit every taste. This range includes one hotel, luxury guest houses, Bed and Breakfast establishments, chalets, caravan and camping facilities as well as self-catering cottages on farms in the area. Details can be obtained from the Swellendam Tourism Bureau.

Restaurants – Swellendam still lives up to its reputation as a foremost ‘refreshment station’ and there are many restaurants and coffee shops in the town catering to travellers.