Closest Town: Swellendam
Grading: Intermediate
Duration: Depends on the route chosen
Location (Area/Province): Overberg & Southern Cape and Western Cape
Configuration: Various
Start Point: Malgas
Access: Public access
Beware of: Flooding after heavy rain
Facilities: Heaps of quality accommodation options available in Swellendam.
Cell Reception: Intermittent
OVERVIEW
Malgas (previously Malagas) is a remote village which has the only remaining pont in South Africa. The pont which was built in 1914 still operates in the original way with two men using the strenghth of their legs and chain straps to pull the pont over the river. The pont is still the only crossing over the Breede River between Swellendam and the sea.
On your bike
Everything goes, with off-road options including anything from awesome downhills to gravel road cranks.
Off the bike
The pontoon over the Breede River at Malgas, 40km from Swellendam operates every day during daylight hours.
The Bush Pub is a seasonal rustic pub offering a relaxed setting and sensational views of the brederiver.
Whale watching season is from June to November each year. The Southern Right whales congregate here with their calves at the river mouth and De Hoop Nature reserve. The calves come right into the mouth at the river and stay here for about 6 months until they have been weaned from the mother. This is a special experience which touches the soul!
CONTACT:
Telephone: +27 (0)28 542-1049
Website: www.malagashotel.co.za
GPS: S 34° 18′ 3.01.5″ E 20° 35′ 17.4″
