Mossel Bay has such an incredible history, plus amazing beaches and activities galore.
It is one of my favourite towns in South Africa!
"Mossel Bay Municipality partnered with Mossel Bay Tourism to rejuvenate the building that once served as the second municipal office (circa 1879). This initiative intends to unlock new potential in the tourism industry when the renovated centre will serve as the starting point for the exciting Tourism Route that will soon entice visitors and locals alike to meander through the historic core of Mossel Bay's 'Old Town'"
"Eventually, the old municipal building will house, among
others, a coffee shop and a beautiful garden and form the link between the
Tourism Centre and the rejuvenated arts centre. The planned renovations will
add to the renewed focus on the heritage of Mossel Bay"
"The Tourism Route will
unfold the story of Mossel Bay, taking in the history since 1488, but also
telling the unique history of the Koi-San, the Strandlopers, the cave with its
world-renowned history, and will integrate the World Heritage Status
application that is in process. The story thus extends from the prehistoric,
pre-colonial era to the later and modern history. Mossel Bay has a rich
history and, according to archaeologists, this is where modern human behaviour
developed more than 166,000 years ago. Therefore, the Tourist Route will offer
new vistas to young and, and from far and wide, and new opportunities to many.
This initiative, therefore, fits perfectly into the growing international
tourism trend towards authentic experiences of local cultures and builds on an
already well-established local arts and crafts community. In the July 2020
newsletter, Mossel Bay Municipality outlined our intent to optimise the
tourism potential of our town and, in doing so, create employment. Empowering
artists and crafters, in cooperation with the Tourism Office, is a high
priority on the agenda".
The Santos Pavillion is one of two beach pavillions still in use today from Colonial times. the other one is in Brighton, UK. Enjoy some craft beer, wine and food at Jackal on the Beach!
"These renovations captured the opportunity to restore
and repurpose two existing municipal buildings to house the refurbished arts
and crafts centre. The first municipal building was built in 1858 and is a
small white building with distinctive Karoo-style architecture. The plastered
quoins around the front door and windows and at the corners are typical of
this period. This was the town’s first municipal and community centre and was
later used as a library, telegraph office, and dance hall. The mail coach also
stopped here"
Something not to be missed! It is an exhilarating experience!
Text of Article - Courtesy Mossel Bay Tourism Office