Where is Arniston / Waenhuiskrans?

One of the proud gems of Cape Agulhas, Arniston is truly a treasure to be discovered. Hidden alongside the wreckage of the ages, you will find a town decked in rich history and untouched natural beauty.

The most eastern town in the Cape Agulhas district is surrounded by surreal seas and open fields of fynbos that crash together on either side of the town’s famous golden sand dunes. Hugged by pure sandy beaches and numerous nature reserves, it’s no wonder why Arniston is called the perfect getaway.

Just short of 3 hours from Cape Town, a scenic drive through the Overberg will take you to this humble fishing village. Whether you decide to head out from Cape Town via the coast hugging route through Betty’s Bay or the climbing path over Sir Lowry’s Pass, you won’t be disappointed. Each showcasing the unique differences between land and sea, both routes will offer an array of sights to be enjoyed and photographed.

Taking a more inland tour, the picturesque town is located south-east of Bredasdorp. Named after the first mayor of Cape Town, Michiel van Breda, Bredasdorp is located at the foot of the Heuningberg (directly translated as honey mountain) and serves as a good pit stop before heading to the coastal town. Alternatively, you can make a stop at the most southern tip of Africa and then follow the coastal route leading up to Arniston. L’Agulhas and Struisbaai are located south west of Arniston.

Located at opposite points of the half moon, Struisbaai and Arniston signal the beginning and end of the stretch of coastline that forms Struis Bay. Nudged in between these towns also lay two of the area’s most cherished nature reserves, namely the De Mond Nature Reserve and the Heunings River Private Nature Reserve.

Heading to Arniston from the Garden Route or Port Elizabeth, you get to cruise through one of the country’s most lush regions. Following the path of towns characterized by flourishing ferns and mountain streams you finally find the sunny farm style town of Swellendam where the road veers off to the coast. From here on out, it’s no longer as the crow flies but as the seagull soars. The more or less straight road slices through green farm fields and golden canola in bloom – smooth sailing all the way!

No matter which way you look at it or from which way you’re heading towards it, Arniston is a uniquely beautiful town ideal for the perfect getaway. The scenic routes guiding you to Arniston are as timeless as the town itself and leave you breathless at the beauty of the diverse landscapes they take you through.  

Find directions to Arniston here.