Geography Picturesque Arniston, also known as Waenhuiskrans, is a small seaside settlement close to Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of Africa. It lies about 25km southeast of Bredasdorp and just 210km (a two-hour drive) from Cape Town along the N2 highway. History There is evidence around the area that shows that early inhabitants were the Khoisan, living off the land and in particular off the sea as Strandlopers (beach combers). The last surviving Strandloper is remembered today at Bientang's Cave near Hermanus, the place where she lived her final days. The modern history of Arniston starts around 1820, when the ocean here was fished by local fishermen under the services of the British. Interestingly, the town of Arniston has two names. The original Afrikaans name is Waenhuiskrans, which literally means "wagon house cliff", named after the sea cave here that was large enough to park a wagon inside! This huge tidal cavern is easily accessible at low tide for anyone wanting to explore. The English name, Arniston, is in memory of the 372 people who drowned when the British East Indiaman transport ship "Arniston" ran aground in May of 1815. About 12km northeast along the coastline at Marcus Bay, anyone interested in shipwrecks can go and check out the remnants of Clan McGregor, yet another ship that was wrecked off the coast.Arts and Culture The settlement is best known for Kassiesbaai, a quaint 200-year old restored fisherman's village. The entire village is a provincial heritage site, and has stolen the hearts of many writers, artists and photographers who come for peace and inspiration and who love the whitewashed thatched cottages. The village adds much old-world charm to Arniston. For the visitor interested in arts and crafts, there is a craft centre here displaying and selling local arts and crafts.Science There are two nature reserves near Arniston, namely the De Hoop Nature Reserve and the De Mond Nature Reserve. Both have fascinating habitat types including fynbos and sand dunes, and the rare animal species include the bontebok, Cape mountain zebra and the Cape vulture. These reserves are perfectly suited to those wishing to spend a day out in nature.Entertainment Arniston definitely lives up to its reputation as being a place where you can "get away from it all". Relax on an unspoilt white beach, enjoy pristine countryside, participate in a plethora of water sports or just enjoy sunrises over the ocean. The waters of Arniston are well known for their whale-watching opportunities, while birdwatchers are in for a treat as there are hundreds of species to spot. Walks through the countryside are a real treat, while exploring the numerous coastal caves is great fun for the more adventurous. Arniston is well-known for its excellent culinary culture, and sampling some of the fresh seafood caught here is a must. For those holiday-makers wishing to make day trips a little further out of town, there are numerous options. Struisbaai has lovely beaches and a working harbour, and Bredasdorp is great for shopping and eating out, and is in the heart of the Bontebok National Park. Visit Agulhas, and stand at the southernmost tip of Africa! |
|
