Suurbraak is a mission village situated in the fold of the Langeberg mountains, alongside the Buffeljags and Tradouw rivers and about 5 km from the magnificent Tradouw Pass that leads to Barrydale. Called Xairu “Beautiful” or “Paradise” by the local Attequa Tribe, the name does Suurbraak justice.
In 2012, Suurbraak celebrates it’s 200th anniversary from when it was established in 1812 as a missionary station. Many of the original buildings give the town its wonderful historic feel and the canvas of the towering Langeberg Mountains and large oak trees is the perfect setting.
Many of the 3000 residents still lead the simple life using horse-and-donkey-drawn ploughs and almost every household has a cow for milk. Although there is electricity in the village, most people still use their wooden stoves and fetch wood to fuel them from the forest alongside the river. A few households still have dung floors. Most people in the village own their own piece of land and local Lawn Services are provided by roaming animals…
Guided walks of the village are offered, as are horse cart rides. Many of the original houses have been preserved and the buildings around the village square and the two church buildings completely restored. Visit the Suurbraak Furniture Manufacturers in Manho Street, who manufacture outstanding chairs for which the village is well-known or the Xairu Rustic Garden Furniture in Main Road. After browsing, have lunch at The Organic Restaurant, also in Main Road.
Directions: 250km from Cape Town just off the N2 on the R324 and 5km from the magnificent Tradouw Pass to Barrydale and Montagu.
