Swellendam is situated in the Breede River Valley 190 km, East of Cape Town. The Town lies at the base of the Langeberg Mountains. Founded in 1743 by the Dutch East India Company, it was named after the Cape Governor- Hendrik Swellengrebe and his wife, whose maiden name was Damme. The Town, stretching along a tributary of the Breede River, is surrounded by natural beauty of flowers and scenic Reserves! The Town’s old Cape Dutch buildings including the Drostdy was built by the Dutch East India Company in 1747.

Swellendam is the centre of an agricultural Area producing cattle, sheep, grain, and fruit.

Bontebok National Park is the smallest National Park in South Africa; it is only 28 square Kilometers. Therefore, the Park is very rewarding in your animal sightings!
The Bontebok is a medium sized antelope, with a multi-coloured coat which is endemic or native, to the Western Cape. This species is unfortunately listed on: "the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List, of Threatened Species!" There is however, a variety of beautiful Rare Fynbos, abundant birdlife, tortoises; Mountain Zebra and much more, to be seen, in the Park. Walking and Mountain Biking Trails are available as well as Picnic spots, along the Breede River. 

Swellendam connects the Overberg with the Garden Route and is an attractive Town with the Koornlands River running through it. Beautifully Historic sitting at the base of the Langeberg mountains near to the R62’s Tradouw Pass, Swellendam is in the perfect location from where to explore the surrounding Areas. Surrounded by Nature Reserves hiking is a popular past-time -( bring your binoculars as the birdlife is amazing!) There is a kaleidoscope of flora and fauna providing great photographic opportunities. The three reserves that are near Swellendam are; the Bontebok National Park, Marloth Nature Reserve and the expansive De Hoop Nature Reserve.. The Bontebok is a medium sized antelope, with a multi-coloured coat which is endemic or native, to the Western Cape. This species is unfortunately listed on: "the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List, of Threatened Species!" There is however, a variety of beautiful rare Fynbos, abundant birdlife, tortoises; Mountain Zebra and much more, to be seen. Walking and Mountain Biking Trails are available as well as Picnic spots, along the Brede River.