Infanta, Cape Agulhas

The little village of Infanta is one of several villages that lie on the banks of the Breede River as it flows from its source near Ceres, although it is Witsand and Infanta that lie at its mouth - Witsand on the eastern bank and Infanta on its western flank.

You would be forgiven for thinking time had more or less stood still in this part of the world. Infanta is a little fishing hamlet and access into the resort is along a gravel road - veering off the N2 west of Swellendam - that leaves a lot to be desired, or not, depending on whether undulating potholes and dongas are your thing. The other way of reaching Infanta is from Witsand - you need to cross the Breede River via the Malgas Pont - a ferry ride of note.

Infanta is more than often not referred to as a ‘sleepy little town’. It was founded in 1819 during a time of severe drought during which its creator, Joseph Barry, transported rice and maize from Cape Town up into the Breede River mouth. Interestingly though, its name is taken from the commander of the second caravel under Dias, Joao Infante.

It is the surrounding hills swathed in fynbos that are a call to many a traveller, as they represent, together with the undisturbed beach front, a nature lover’s escape, and the rocky shoreline is great for fishing. But probably the biggest bonus is to find how many whales frequent this coastline during the whale season and another is the awe-inspiring drive from Witsand along Sebastian/Barracouta streets with vistas of both sea and river.