Swellies for the weekend: Here’s 7 things to do in Swellendam

Last year this time, I had the most colourful weekend away in Swellendam… and to think, I almost didn’t go!

Despite me usually being the ever-ready, eager-beaver when it comes to a getaway opportunity, this particular trip just wasn’t tickling my fancy at the time of its approach. On the day I had to leave, I felt the most overwhelming anxiety about literally everything I had to do – and needed a serious (yet kind & gentle) pep-talk just to get my booty in the car.

I had had such a highly frustrating & tough week, that it didn’t take too much convincing to get me out of the city, leaving all my worries far behind. I needed to relax, and according to my doctor, this weekend away that was already completely planned out was exactly what was prescribed.

The road to Swellendam is not too long, so within 2 and a half hours of my teary-eyed phone call at an undisclosed BP Garage in CPT, I arrived at my beautiful remedy.

Aan de Eike is where we stayed for the weekend, and I’d highly recommend them… The 4-star guesthouse is intimate and well-managed, with delicious food served in their restaurant (open to the public for breakfast & lunch service), a pool, beautiful mountainous backdrop and super-clean, fresh, beautifully decorated rooms. Did I mention how well-run this place is? Shout out to the management team.

I did not even know there was so much fun to be had in Swellendam (obvs… cause I didn’t even plan to go there!)

Now, since I’ve been there for more than just a hike, let me tell you My Top 7 things to do in Swellendam for a colourful weekend away.

 

1. Eat well

I recommend Drostdy Restaurant a million times over if you’re looking for really good food and high-end service to match the French chef’s abilities. Tres magnifique! I did not order a starter, but when it came time for starters at my table, the manager (wife to the chef, and also one of the owners) brought me a lovely taster of their “soup of the day”.

which was butternut soup and it tasted just lovely. I also got a bite of the blue cheese soufflé plated across from me and man was that good. Literally, that was the best soufflé I’d ever had. Texture, presentation and of course, the taste.

For mains, we had the pork belly with mash and a steak with mushroom sauce & fries.

There are a number of other restaurants in Swellendam, that come very highly rated, such as tredici, etc. I did not manage to go to them, but based on the experience I had, I can certainly believe the rave reviews for the restaurants in Swellies…

As mentioned earlier Aan de Eike has a restaurant open to the public and this is where I had breakfast. Amazing offerings and highly recommended.

 

2. Something Sweet

Bee Things and Chocolate Etc. can be found just 2 doors from each other and are certainly worth visiting… even if not for honey or chocolate specifically.

I went to Bee Things.

They sell so many different kinds of honey, as well as amazing honey & bee themed gifts and things.

You can also check out their bees of course and learn a bit more about bees, beekeeping, honey, honey badgers – and all such things like that.

And even though I am a real chocolate lover, I didn’t get to visit Chocolate Etc. We didn’t check the operating hours beforehand and with it having been COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, unfortunately they weren’t open when we wanted to pop in.

 

3. Something Spicy

There’s many pickles at Wildebraam farm, but that’s not all. This farm has an array of things to do.

The fun part – all the tastings. There’s jams, pickles and liqueurs. And the flavours are endless. I’m not much of a jam person, but I love the hot chilli relishes they had on offer, from something called Rattlesnake bite, to Chilli Jam and lots more.

Next they offered a liqueur tasting – for free. Such a vibe.

The farm is of course, family-friendly. They have a lovely lawn where you can picnic. Depending on the season, you can do berry picking (they also sell frozen berries in bulk throughout the year – yum!). There is a restaurant which also operates in the summer season.

Overall, loved this location and next time would spend much more time here lazing around under a tree, savouring the uninterrupted mountain views after all those liqueur shots – hahaha.

 

4. Bike about & learn the history

Everywhere you go in Swellendam, they’re gonna tell you that Swellendam used to be a republic.

The museum and many key attractions around Swellies gives you a true sense of the deep history of this place, and the pride of the people around there for it.

I didn’t go to the museum but it’s said to be quite fun and informative. Around town there are some great historical structures, statues and buildings. Whether you’re interested in all the history or just really like a photo op, there’s plenty to be found for you in Swellies.

 

5. Enjoy time in nature

Of course, mountains all around.  WEIRD, but I didn’t hike on this trip. Most walking I did was to go down to the market from our guesthouse.

I did do a lot of research though, because I’m definitely going back.

Swellendam is situated within close proximity to the central part of the Langeberg mountains. Marloth Nature Reserve in the Swellendam area gives access to a few different day hikes, with trails for both easy walking or those seeking something a bit more strenuous.

Some of the better known hiking trails around Swellies would be Duiwelsbos Waterfall and Clock Peaks. Check out the “Visit Swellendam” website for more detailed info on all the cool hiking trails out there.

On a previous trip to Swellies, I visited Kam’bati River Resort where you can enjoy both traditional camping and more modern Glamping accommodation. The resort and many parts of the region surrounding it, boasts beautiful views along the riverbanks, and the fun nature activities that accompany such places. This includes fishing, birdwatching, hiking and various other nature activities.

 

6. Under the Oaks Market (Saturdays)

Such a cute family friendly vibe.

It’s not very big, but there’s some yummy things, pretty things, and really friendly people.

They have a great selection of stalls including goods like; books, crafts, plants, clothes, cheese, coffee, sweet treats, food, and even a massage service.

 

7. Visit the Fairies

My absolute favourite part of this trip was visiting the Faerie Sanctuary.

How did I never know about this place? I am obsessed and was really so happy to be among my fellow faerie creatures.

Entry is R30 per person and R20 for children (there’s even a separate kiddies play area). I will literally go back annually now – as a Fairy-at-heart, I believe it’s mandatory.

 

Next time you want to have a fun-filled weekend, maybe Swellendam has something to offer.

 

Colourful Kisses

Sherri