Overberg Region

Stretching from the Hangklip to the Breede River, the Overberg region is the most southerly African region, and is framed by sea and mountains. The coastal areas encompass the seaside towns of Betty’s Bay, Pringle Bay, Gansbaai, Arniston, Cape Agulhas, and Hermanus.

Towering mountains, red disa, and orchid vegetation can be found further inland. Continue further for fertile valleys and fruit orchards. Elgin and Grabouw, Caledon, Villiersdorp and Swellendam are located in these fertile areas where sheep graze among the fields of wheat.

Just 90 minutes from Cape Town you’ll find Hermanus, at the heart of the whale route. Hermanus offers some of the best whale watching in the world. Whale watching is best here, where the warm waters bring enormous southern right whales. Watching is best between September and November.

Hermanus also offers a variety of outdoor activities, and a wide range of accommodation.

White sandy beaches are another highlight of the area, ideal for long walks, and a favorite destination for families. Hermanus is a bustling seaside resort, with the heart of an old fishing village. The area is very popular with locals, holiday travelers and tourists alike, especially during the summer months.

Accommodations are varied, and there are quaint shops, restaurants and an outdoor craft market for your enjoyment.

Apple country is another must-see destination. Producing more than half of all South Africa’s apples, Grabouw is located in the beautiful Eligin Valley.

Apples aren’t the only thing Grabouw is known for; the valley is also very well known for its Proteas and other cultivated flowers.

A popular outdoor destination, the area provides a natural location for hiking and mountain biking, with the Hottentots-Holland Nature Reserve nearby. Find a roadside farm for delicious home baked confections, teas and lunches!

Another two and a half hours from Cape Town is Swellendam, the third oldest South African settlement. Swellendam is located at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains. The nearby mountains and the Breede River, offer plenty of outdoor activities, including walking, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.

With a mixture of white-washed homes and architectural charm, the area is an outdoor delight. Enjoy some river rafting and canoeing on the Breede River, or take a scenic walk through the nearby Bontebok National Park, a sanctuary for mountain zebra and numerous antelope herds. Marloth Nature Reserve also offers hiking trails and abundant flora.

Only 90 minutes from Cape Town is Villiersdorp. A small town, surrounded by farm lands, its known as the “sleeping beauty of the Overberg”.

Nearby is the Theewaterskloop Dam, one of the largest in South Africa. The area also offers abundant water sports, fishing and a 9-hole golf course.

Villiersdrop Nature Reserve offers beautiful hiking trails, or visit the Wild Flower Garden and Nature Reserve and see the amazing variety of fynbos, proteas and birdlife.

If you don’t mind the 2-3 hour drive, visit the picturesque fishing village of Arniston, also known as Waenhuiskrans. Local fishermen have fished here for over 200 years, and it is said that several oxen wagons can be housed in the sea cave its named for.

With thatched and white-washed cottages it is a favorite for artists, and is a national monument due as a result of its years as a fisherman’s village. Also nearby is De Hoop Nature Reserve, and Shipwreck Museum. Visit Arniston for a real escape of walking, swimming and fishing.

For Overberg Accommodation, click here