It’s the third-oldest town in South Africa, yet Swellendam is anything but stuck in the past. Established at the foot of the Langeberg mountains during the mid-1700s, it was originally a resting station between George and Cape Town. As a result of its remote location, early settlers had to quickly learn how to provide for themselves. Farms sprang up and, as time went on, trades like sewing and pottery added to the community’s culture. Today, Swellendam is famous for producing 90% of the world’s youngberries, and the town’s artisanal ventures continue to grow alongside its historical significance.
At the Drostdy Museum, relics of Swellendam’s early inhabitants offer a glimpse of the town’s heritage. The building itself is a treasure – built in 1747, it used to be the official quarters of the magistrate, or landdrost. Explore the homely setting of the Mayville House Museum section and then step outside to the Ambagswerf exhibition, where hammers and wagons of tradesmen in the wheat industry showcase the effort it took to shape a life here. This tradition of innovation has been passed down over the decades, taking present-day residents to magical new dimensions.
The Continent of Sulina is an enchanting sanctuary designed by local sculptors Ian and Minky Sulin. A life-size fairy welcomes passersby on Buitekant Street, while glittering gnomes, imps, and elves peek out from between the ferns and flowers. Should a little creature ignite your imagination, you can take it home from their Faerie-nuf Gallery or make your own sculpture at the Bukkenburg Pottery Studio & Guest Cottage Swellendam. Resident artists Dave Schlapobersky and Felicity Potter offer workshops in clay art. Situated on a provincial heritage site, they also cultivate a vast garden which supplies the community with fresh vegetables.
When harvest season comes around at the end of the year, The Berry Guest Farm opens its doors to pick the blackberries, blueberries, and youngberries that grow in abundance here. Sample their sweetness straight from the bushes, or take home some jam as a souvenir. For a more refined culinary experience, head back to the hub of Swellendam and discover one of the Western Cape’s top patisseries, Tredici. This Italian eatery weaves wonders with local produce, transforming them into exquisite treats.
Though Swellendam has all the makings of a rustic South African town, the dynamic community lends a distinctly sweet character. From its weighty heritage to the creative avenues and fruitful farms, this region is rich in flavour – the epitome of a self-made life in the countryside.
