Bredasdorp

Description

Bredasdorp is a quaint town in the Overberg region of the Western Cape. It is the main economic sub of the region, well known today as a wheat and wool centre on the northern edge of the Agulhas Plain. Visitors to Bredasdorp can enjoy numerous nature activities, as well as cultural and historical attractions. Browse or list of excellent Bredasdorp accommodations below.

The town of Bredasdorp was founded in 1838 with the construction of the Dutch Reformed Church. It was named after Michiel van Breda, the first mayor of Cape Town, who was also known as the father of South Africa’s merino sheep industry. Bredasdorp, situated at an elevation of between 40 and 120 metres on the slopes of the Heuningberg, enjoys a Mediterranean climate. This, along with its close proximity to the ocean, makes Bredasdorp a popular tourist destination. A number of accommodations await visitors to Bredasdorp.

Bredasdorp is surrounded by a colourful patchwork of farmlands and the Heuningberg Nature Reserve. Famous for its sheep farming industry, the Merino Statue was erected at the entrance to the Bredasdorp/Napier Co-operative in honour of the merino sheep that brought fame to the area. In addition to sheep farming, Bredasdorp also boasts other agricultural activities such as wheat, canola, milk, and indigenous fynbos cultivation.

Nature lovers will be in their element in Bredasdorp. The 800 hectare Heuningberg Nature Reserve bordering Bredasdorp provides panoramic views of Arniston, De Hoop, Struisbaai, and Soetanysberg. It features walking trails, wildlife, birds, and 270 species of fynbos, 30 of which are endangered and 6 of which are indigenous to the region. Alternatively, one can visit the De Hoop and De Mond Nature Reserves lying along the coast not far from Bredasdorp. Beautiful fynbos, various animals, and walking and cycling trails can be found here, as well as whales off the coast between July and November.

Bredasdorp offers an array of historical attractions. While here, be sure to visit the Shipwreck Museum which boasts artefacts and furniture from ships wrecked along the coast. The museum consists of three sections; the previous “Independent Church” which was developed into the shipwreck section; the Old Manse containing old bottles and antiques; and the “Coach House” with vintage horse carriages and fire engines. Also worth a visit is the Dutch Reformed Church which has organ pipes set in a solid brass foot piece, believed to be one of only five in South Africa. The All Saints Church (1863) and the old gaol (1861) are also worth a look.

Other places of interest in Bredasdorp include the offices of Kapula Candles, the Wine Shop, Bredasdorp Golf Club, and arts and crafts shops like the Antique Warehouse, Craft Corner, Klippen Coffee & Gift Shop, and Paleishuis. Lastly, be sure to see the Foot of Africa exhibition room housed on the premises of the Bredasdorp Tourism Bureau, honouring the marathon that sets off from Bredasdorp annually in October.

Experience Bredasdorp by booking a stay at one of the following excellent accommodations.