Swellendam

The town stretches along a tributary of the Breede River at the base of the Langeberg mountains, located 190 kilometers east of Cape Town.

Established in 1746 by the Dutch East India Company, Swellendam became the third-oldest settlement in South Africa and briefly declared itself an independent republic in 1795.

The Drostdy Museum complex contains numerous Cape Dutch buildings that display the architectural methods and lifestyle choices of early European settlers in South Africa.

Swellendam functions as an agricultural center producing cattle, sheep, grain, and fruit, while offering accommodations for travelers between Cape Town and George.

The town sits at an elevation of 128 meters above sea level, providing views of the Bontebok National Park where the rare bontebok antelope finds protection.

Location: Swellendam Local Municipality

Inception: 1746

Elevation above the sea: 128 m

Website: https://swellenmun.co.za

GPS coordinates: -34.02306,20.44000

Latest update: May 27, 2025 06:56