'''Swellendam''' (pop. 35.000) is in the Western Cape region of South Africa. It`s one of the oldest European settlements in South Africa and offers some fine examples of Dutch-Cape architecture. The tourist office is in the old mission at Voortrek Street (mon-fr 9am to 5pm). - Local area code: 028; Postcode 6740

Get in

By car

It will take about 2-3 hours on the N2 to reach Swellendam by car from Cape Town (240km).

By bus

The major companies serve Swellendam on their run from Cape Town to the Garden route but the service isn`t very extensive. Swellendam is also served by the Baz Bus on it`s way from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth.

By plane/ rail

There is no airport nor rail to Swellendam

Get around

The town is so small that it`s best viewed while walking through the streets. There is no public transport in the town except for the minibuses. The minibus stand is on Voortrek street behind the SPAR supermarket.

See

  • The Drostdy: the former magistrate`s seat was built in 1747 and now houses a museum. It is a fine example of Cape-Dutch architecture.
  • Bontebok National Park: A few kilometres out of town, this park offers nice scenery. Worth a day of hiking and a viewing of the flora and fauna.
  • De Hoop Nature Reserve: Beautiful little reserve, perfect for spotting whales!
  • Marloth Nature Reserve: On the southern slopes of the Langeberg Mountains offers an abundance of wild flowers and fynbos, as well as some hiking trails.
  • Do

  • Visit the museum and then go for Bontebok National Park. For those with more time hiking in the Marloth nature reserve is worth a thought.
  • Eat

    Several restaurants line the main street.
  • '''Mattsen`s Steakhouse''', 44 Voortrek St. Popular not only for its steaks
  • Drink

  • The Old Mill. ain Road, Swellendam. Traditional South African cooking served in warm, rustic surroundings. Lovely, large patio area under vines for warm, balmy summer evenings. Great food, great atmosphere and friendly staff.

    Sleep

  • Bloomestate Luxury Retreat Guesthouse. 76 Voortrekstreet. 27 (0) 28 514-2984. ttp://www.bloomestate.com/. For lovers of style, modern design, beautiful surroundings and the finer things in life, Bloomestate will be your retreat of choice. On an estate of 2,5 ha, this guesthouse has seven stylish modern gardenrooms with large bathrooms. French doors open onto landscaped gardens with a tranguil dam, heated saltwater pool and mountain views. With a maximum of 14 guests, privacy, attentive service and supreme comfort are assured. The perfect hideaway to relax and unwind. Lounge area with open air Jacuzzi, conference facilities in the lounge. Stroll to restaurants, small platters on request. Wine estates and nature reserves nearby.

  • Swellendam Country Lodge Guest House B&B. ttp://www.swellendamlodge.com/. 4 stars (Tourism Grading Council of South Africa). The Guest House itself has a unique atmosphere, the stylish characteristic interior is a combination of classic charm and modern style. The guest rooms are situated in a beautiful landscaped garden where you will enjoy the wide range of birds, trees, fruit and flowers. On warm summer days, the large sparkling swimming pool is a refreshment not to be missed. Off street parking. English, Afrikaans, Deutsch, Nederlands spoken.

  • Heerden Huijs. Swellengrebel Street. 27 (0) 28 514-2841. ttp://heerdenhuijs.co.za/. ates are R275pps, single on request.. Situated in the heart of Swellendam, offer the essence of hospitality. Although situated on the main road, the rooms are quiet and cool. Within walking distance of the historical sites and restaurants. Enjoy a scruptious breakfast either in the dining room or on the patio besides the pool. Dinner/braai (barbeque) by prior arrangement.

  • African Shades Guesthouse. 3+11 Swellengrebelstreet. 27 (0)28 514-2944. nfo@africanshades.co.za. ttp://www.africanshades.co.za/.

  • Braeside Bed & Breakfast. 3 Van Oudtshoornweg. 27 (0)28 514-3325. ttp://www.braeside.co.za/. rom R250 pps. A very nice Cape Edwardian building, enjoy the breakfast on the terrace.

  • Swellendam Backpackers Adventure Lodge. ttp://www.swellendambackpackers.co.za/. Offers adventure and accommodation.

    Get out

  • The rest of the Overberg.