Living in the city isn't for everybody. In light of the new working-from-home policies that many companies have adopted, it's more feasible than ever for many people to think about moving to a small town. Seeff takes a look at seven of South Africa's favourite small towns and the reasons why they are so well loved.
Bathurst - home of the Big Pineapple
Bathurst is surrounded by agricultural land renowned for its pineapple production, so it's only natural that this Eastern Cape town chose to celebrate the prickly fruit. They did so by building a three-storey pineapple from metal and fibreglass - and inside is a museum dedicated to all things pineapple. Once you've had pineapples "in chunks", you can visit one of South Africa's oldest pubs, dating back to around 1832. The Pig and Whistle Inn got its current name during World War II and also offers rooms for those visiting from out of town. For residents, Bathurst offers a small-town ambience and surrounding natural beauty in abundance.
Betty's Bay - the best place to recharge your batteries
Betty's Bay is a spot where Capetonians love to go to relax - and those lucky enough to call Betty's Bay home get to live in a peaceful, friendly and relaxed environment. Things to see in the area include the Harold Porter National Botanical Gardens, Stony Point Penguin Colony and Kogelberg Nature Reserve. Residents may eventually start to take the spectacular sunsets on Betty's Bay's main beach for granted - but don't miss it if you're just visiting.
Graaff-Reinet - home to history and wildlife
Graaff-Reinet is well known for its array of Boer War monuments and heritage buildings. In fact, the town is home to at least 200 relics of the past, making it an ideal home or holiday spot for history buffs. Perhaps what locals love even more, however, is the wealth of natural beauty. A range of outdoor activities can be enjoyed in Graaff-Reinet, from bird watching and game viewing to horse riding, trout fishing and much more.
George - enjoy the great outdoors
If you're lucky enough to call George home, then you're living in one of the best-loved and most beautiful areas of South Africa. Don't miss opportunities to get outside, such as paying a visit to the Garden Route Botanical Garden. The Outeniqua Family Market takes place every Saturday from 8am to 2pm, and you'll find more than 150 food and craft stalls to explore. Residents of George get to make the most of a community-orientated and friendly way of life.
Hermanus - so much more than the whales
Hermanus is well loved for its beaches, scenery and whale-watching opportunities. There is a range of other events and opportunities for which the town should be known, such as free weekly tours of the SANSA Space Science centre. These tours take place every Wednesday at 11am and you can email the centre to book your space.
Another firm Hermanus favourite is the Hermanuspietersfontein Food & Wine Market. On Saturday mornings, Hermanus locals can enjoy a smorgasbord of local and international food and wine. Locals love the market for the laid-back ambience, delectable cuisine and great opportunity to spend time with friends.
A final Hermanus must is First Fridays Artwalk. On the first Friday of every month, the town's fine art is showcased as the town's 12 art galleries stay open until 8pm.
Mossel Bay - a mecca of things to do
There are many reasons that people choose to live in Mossel Bay, and topping the list for many is the list of productions and cultural activities on offer. From drive-in movies and theatre productions to concerts, sporting events and flea markets, there is something for everyone. Other factors making Mossel Bay a popular small town is its moderate weather and beautiful beaches. It's easy to see the appeal of a small town where the motto is "No hurry. No worries".
St Lucia - Northern KZN's coastal gem
Anyone who has visited St Lucia is bound to have fond memories of the trip there - and those lucky enough to call St Lucia home love the outdoorsy way of life that's enjoyed here. No trip to St Lucia can be complete without a boat trip on Lake St Lucia, which is South Africa's largest estuary. Taking a stroll along the estuary boardwalk that runs from the end of Sugar Loaf Road is another must. Those who enjoy snorkelling are in for a treat thanks to the nearby Cape Vidal, where subtropical reefs and the Dorothea wreck await to be explored.
Typically, small towns offer a peaceful way of life in which there's a real sense of community. Small-town life differs from big-city life in many ways, and for many, moving to a small town can be the start of dreams coming true. If you're wondering which of South Africa's small towns is right for you, contact Seeff and we will help you find a town and a home that meets your needs and your budget.
Image accreditations:
Mossel Bay Photo: Dellex | Wikipedia | CC BY-SA 3.0 | https://bit.ly/3n382dq
Graaff-Reinet Photo: Michael Clarke Stuff | Flickr | CC BY-SA 2.0 | https://bit.ly/3wxM311
Betty's Bay Photo: Alexander Wunschik | Web.archive | CC BY-SA 3.0 | https://bit.ly/3qszhQv