Halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth nestles the seaside town of Mossel Bay.
A bustling holiday resort in summer and the ideal retreat in winter, it is situated on a spectacular sunwashed peninsula embraced by the warm Indian Ocean. No wonder that the town is featured in the Guinness Book of Records as having the mildest all-year climate, second only to Hawaii.
Mossel Bay has a fascinating history, much of which is on display at the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex. Of the seven National Monuments on the Museum Grounds, 6 are buildings dating between 1830 and 1902.
The history is reflected by the architectural styles found throughout the town.
Many of the well-preserved old stone buildings today are part of an historic walk trough town.
The pride of Mossel Bay's sporting facilities is its 18-hole golf course, with a view of the sea from every tee. Aquatic sports are a prime attraction, and the modern mooring facility makes it a haven for yachting enthusiasts.
Surfing, boardsailing, power boating, deep sea fishing and scuba diving are immensely popular as are the romantic, relaxing sunset cruises.
Attractions & Activities
The Point area
One of the more famous areas for sufers, the Point, also features a natural pool formed by rocks - a popular swimming place at low tide. The St Blaize trail starts here, and in season this is the ideal spot to watch the whales and dolphins at play.
The harbour
Rich in history, the harbour has been a favourite spot for visitors to Mossel Bay.
Mossgas info centre
The Mossgas Info Centre, situated next to Santos Protea Beach, informs visitors about the project and the production of synthetic fuels from Mossel Bay's offshore gas fields.
Historical wreck siteThe history of Mossel Bay is closely linked to maritime activities. The site of the PHILIA and other wrecks was identified as an underwater museum because of easy accessibility.
Mosselbay Zipline
This adrenaline-pumping experience allows you to glide for 1100 meters (at speeds of up to 90 km/h*). This zip line will take you above the bay, giving you a bird's eye perspective. Simply take in the grandeur of this spectacular natural landscape from a one-of-a-kind perspective!
Book Zip lineMuseums:
- The Dias Museum Complex
- Cape St Blaize Cave
- ATKV-Hartenbos Museum
- Great Brak River Museum
Other activities include fun for old and young at The Point, with mini golf, trampolines and go-carts. Hartenbos has a heated indoor swimming pool and recreation centre. One can get close to nature, horse riding along the beaches and through the fynbos. Or be brave and go shark diving - or bungi jumping from the Gouritz River bridge!
The sun-drenched, north-facing beaches, historic architecture and unique museums, out- standing fish cuisine and a working harbour for commercial as well as leisure craft, make it a veritable mecca for outdoor enhusiasts in search of a Mediterranean type climate and lifestyle.
