Great Brak River (Afrikaans: Groot-Brakrivier) is a Coastal Village which nestles in, the Garden Route. Situated midway between George and Mossel Bay.
Mossel Bay was officially proclaimed a Town in 1848 and in 1852 a Municipal Area. As a result of the new Municipal dispensation introduced by the South African Government, in December 2000. This Municipal Area now includes the Towns and Settlements of: "Mossel Bay; Boggoms Bay, Brandwag, Buisplaas, D'Almeida, Dana Bay, Glentana, Fraaiuitsig, Friemersheim, Great Brak River, Hartenbos, Herbertsdale, Hersham, KwaNonqaba and Little Brak River."
It was founded by the Searle family of Surrey, England, of which the elder brother Richard, emigrated to South Africa under a Government-sponsored scheme in 1845. He arrived in Great Brak River, to work for the Central Road Board in 1850. Richard’s brother, Charles, and sister-in-law, Pamela, are credited with founding the Village in 1859. The Searle family went on to become toll keepers (toll houses were operated by private contractors during the 1800's).
There are beautiful, unspoiled Beaches in the Area, and the Lagoon, offers safe swimming. The presence of Southern Right and other whales from May till November is one of the Town’s main attractions. The River that divides the Village is rich in marine life. While its wooded banks offer excellent opportunities for bird watching. Follow the circular route through the Village and experience the History and Culture, of Years gone by.
'There is the scenic beauty of the majestic Outeniqua Mountains and the blue Sea, rolling green Hills and pastures, rich Agriculture and Culture. River bush and fynbos, aloe and dolphin, whale, Suikerbekkie (Sunbird) and man live side by side in a place one can only describe as paradise!'.