Property for sale in Witsand, Western Cape

The Witsand property region is centred around the quaint fishing hamlet of Witsand/Port Beaufort on the Southern Cape coast, where the majestic Breede River flows into the ocean. The town used to be of great economical importance during the previous century when it was a main port for the loading of wool and grain destined for the markets of Cape Town and George property areas. Today, the Witsand property area is no less vibrant, but a whole lot more laid-back. A favourite amongst holidaymakers, the bay is renowned internationally for the large numbers of endangered Southern Right Whales that annually make their way here to calf in the safety of the San Sebastian Bay. These intelligent and mysterious giants of the ocean and their calves remain here from June to November before they migrate back to the icy waters of the Antarctic. Click here to view our highly sought-after Breede River Lodge properties. As far as scenic beauty is concerned, Witsand is a prime location. From its turn-off, just outside Heidelberg on the N2, the road to the village meanders through beautifully cultivated fields, sheep and ostrich farms - a place where at sunrise and sunset, the sky, land and waters are aflame with hues of red and gold. The area is also a birdwatchers' paradise, boasting at least 260 species, of which quite a number are rare birds. The Breede River is known as one of South Africa's finest fishing estuaries. The salt water pushes up to 60 km inland, forming many creeks that rise and fall with the tides and still produces cob of up to 65 kg. Apart from fishing, the Witsand propertyregion offers great opportunities for water sport enthusiasts who enjoy surfing, kite-boarding, rowing, canoeing and sailing. However, it is mostly the historical gems of the area that date back at least two centuries that attract visitors to the small village. Sightseeing opportunities include: Witsand's famous landmark, the Barry Memorial Church, built in 1849. The ruptured remains of the steamship, SS Kadie, and the water boat the Locust, which are visible at low tide around the Breede River Lodge and at Infanta. The original harbour built by the Barry's ('The Kraaltjie') that was rebuilt in recent years and is still in use. The hand-drawn pontoon at Malgas that still ferries vehicles and visitors across the river. Moodie's Well, situated about 4 km further along the beach, which was carved out of rock by Scottish labourers to provide fresh water for campers. The Bonnievale wine route and Montagu's hot springs. Several hiking trails, including the well-known Whale Trail. Puntjie, a small settlement on the Duivenhoks River. The De Hoop Nature Reserve, 3000 hectares of undisturbed fynbos that is home to the endangered Cape mountain zebra and Cape vulture. The beautifully preserved town of Genadendal, established in 1738 as a missionary station. The historical town of Swellendam with its Cape Dutch architecture that was established in 1775, which offers wonderful museums, restaurants and markets. The Tradouw Pass and the old mission village of Suurbraak. Read Less