Bredasdorp, South Africa’s first  “-dorp” was established by Michiel van Breda in 1838, and today forms the economic hub of the Suidpunt region.  Van Breda and other leading personality, Pieter Voltelyn van der Byl, could not agree where the Church should be built, and two towns, Bredasdorp and Napier, were established in 1838.

The population of this predominantly agricultural area is about 20 000.  Notwithstanding its typical rural atmosphere, all essential services are available in Bredasdorp.  The establishment of Denel’s missile test range (OTB) and the SA Air Force’s Test Flight and Development Centre (TFDC) in the mid-eighties near Waenhuiskrans/Arniston, and the movement of the Overberg District Council’s Head Office to Bredasdorp, accelerated the development of the town.

Audrey Blignault:  Furnished in honour of Audrey Blignault who was born in Bredasdorp and who enjoys national recognition as a writer, especially on the Bredasdorp area.  This room forms part of the Shipwreck Museum.

Foot of Africa Room:  Commemorative Room for the historical records of the famous Foot of Africa Marathon.  The 25th marathon took place in 2002.  This room forms part of the Tourism Bureau Complex.

Shipwreck Museum:  Unique world-renowned museum with artifacts and furniture from ships wrecked along our coast in years gone by.  The biggest collection of bottles in South Africa is also housed in the Museum.

Churches:  Imposing Dutch Reformed Church (1911) – An impressive example of Cape-Gothic style architecture.  Beautiful oak pulpit.  Reformed Church (1996) Plantation Street – Furnishings from early 1900 churches.  The pulpit, bell, organ and hand-carved door are all special.  Contact the Verger at 028 424 1832.  Anglican Church (All Saints) (1861) – Beautiful little stone church, designed by Sophie Gray.  Stained glass windows.

Heuningberg Nature Reserve:  A must for nature lovers and birders.  Offers various 2-15km walking routes in the mountain.  Top end of Van Riebeeck Street.

Merino Statue:  Erected in honour of the merino sheep which brought fame to this area, due to careful breeding by Michiel van Breda on this historic farm, Zoetendals Vallei, early in the last century.  At the entrance to BNK Landbou, Swellendam Road.