| Upon visiting Bredasdorp, you’ll find that it is a rather sleepy agricultural town that lies in the midst of a peaceful landscape of sheep, farms and wheat fields. But there is more to Bredasdorp than what appears at first sight.
The story of Bredasdorp began way back in 1837. On the farm Langefontein, which means long fountain, a Dutch Reformed Church was erected and named after a farmer known as Michiel van Breda. Van Breda did most of the work on the church. He was also the first Mayor of Cape Town.
Since then Bredasdorp became the center of the dairy and wheat region, and also the capital town of Africa’s most southern district. The exhibits to be found in the small yet extremely enlightening shipwreck-museum bears witness to a time where many ships ran a ruin near the infamous coastline of this area. Don’t miss the opportunity to revel in the former glory of these mysterious artifacts, as you’ll find anything from savaged furniture, skulls, brass telescopes to fascinating navigational instruments, exotic coins and superb china and ceramic ware.
Apart from the typical rural atmosphere, all essential services are available in Bredasdorp. Visitors regard this town as a conveniently situated base from which to explore the surrounding countryside, as the town is well situated and also very clean and pleasant.
Halfway between Bredasdorp and Napier you can enjoy the Mountain Fynbos Tractor rides on Kleinsanddrif Farm, which offers guided tours up the picturesque mountain overlooking Aghulhas Plain, the most southern-tip of Africa. On these tours you are also almost certain to catch a glimpse of the endangered Blue Crane – a truly magnificent bird species. And if you have never heard the term – ‘Potjiekos’ (food in a pot) – then Bredasdorp is the place to go, as all locals are well-trained in the art of making a good ‘potjie’.
After a day of sightseeing, the Bredasdorp Hotel is the local hub for catching up on some good local rugby. Here you’ll find farmers, salesmen, fisherman and travellers alike – all relishing a game of Saturday rugby on the television, whilst enjoying a nice cold beer. |
