swartlandtourism@westc.co.za
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Malmesbury, generally known as the ‘Heart of the Swartland’, is a tranquil country town with a Mediterranean climate. It’s only a 40-minute drive from Cape Town.
Jan van Riebeeck, referring to the black colour of the original vegetation found in the region, was the first to use the Dutch name ‘Het Zwarte Land’. The dark hues, only seen in summer, are characteristic of Renosterveld, the indigenous scrubland.
Despite its tranquillity, Malmesbury has a bustling business life as well as an active informal sector. Its beautifully maintained and restored historic buildings on the "Historic walk about route" attract historians. In winter, during the ‘green season’, the area is covered in green wheat fields and yellow canola fields.
This small town is the perfect break away, and offers you a wide range of activities from hiking trails and 4x4 routes to various sporting activities and wonderful wine cellars and restaurants.
Main Photo: ©Shutterstock
