Bredasdorp Accommodation

Bredasdorp is known as South Africa's first "dorp" and lies 30 km inland from the coast on the north slopes of the Preekstoel (pulpit) hill. Founded in 1838 by Michiel van Breda, it is well known today as a wheat and wool centre.

Bredasdorp's Shipwreck Museum is also worth a visit for its collection of ship artifacts - testimony to the numerous ships sunk off the treacherous Agulhas coastline. These relics are housed in historical buildings including the original farm homestead Langefontein. The Cape Agulhas Lighthouse only became operational in 1849 - too late for many.

The De Hoop nature reserve lies 50 km east of Bredasdorp and covers over 60 000 ha of endangered coastal fynbos. As well as supporting a huge variety of plants within its boundary, it is home to Africa's largest bontebok population and the endangered Cape mountain zebra. Popular activities include: game viewing, angling, hiking, cycling and bird watching. The reserve, which extends to the coast, is ideal for seasonal whale watching.

Bredasdorp, located in the Overberg region of the Western Cape, is a charming town that serves as a gateway to the beautiful Whale Coast.

Here are three top things to see or do in or near Bredasdorp:

1. Cape Agulhas

Description:

• Cape Agulhas is the southernmost tip of Africa, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. It’s a must-visit destination for its natural beauty and symbolic significance.

Activities:

• Cape Agulhas Lighthouse: Visit the historic lighthouse, which is the second-oldest working lighthouse in South Africa. Climb to the top for stunning views of the coastline.
• Southernmost Tip Marker: Walk to the marker that designates the exact point where the two oceans meet.
• Agulhas National Park: Explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna, scenic landscapes, and the unique rock formations along the coast.

2. De Hoop Nature Reserve

Description:

• Located about an hour's drive from Bredasdorp, De Hoop Nature Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.

Activities:

• Whale Watching: Between June and November, Southern Right Whales can be seen close to the shore, making it one of the best land-based whale-watching spots in the world.
• Hiking and Biking: The reserve offers a variety of trails for hiking and biking, allowing visitors to explore its dunes, wetlands, and coastal plains.
• Bird Watching and Wildlife Viewing: Spot a wide range of bird species, including the endangered Cape Vulture, and other wildlife such as bontebok, eland, and Cape mountain zebra.

3. Shipwreck Museum

Description:

• Located in the heart of Bredasdorp, the Shipwreck Museum offers a fascinating look into the maritime history of the region, showcasing artifacts and stories from shipwrecks along the treacherous coast.

Activities:

• Exhibits: Explore exhibits featuring items recovered from shipwrecks, including old maps, cannons, figureheads, and personal belongings of sailors.
• Historical Buildings: The museum is housed in several restored historical buildings, each offering a glimpse into different aspects of the town's and region’s history.
• Guided Tours: Take a guided tour to learn more about the dramatic tales of shipwrecks, the lives of sailors, and the history of the Overberg region.

These attractions offer a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and history, making Bredasdorp and its surroundings a wonderful destination for visitors.