Elim

Founded in 1824 by Moravian missionaries, the village of Elim can be reached from Bredasdorp. Napier of Pearly Beach, and is one of the best known mission stations in South Africa. Elim is renowned for it’s picturesque thatched cottages, with fig trees lining the streets which lead to the large white washed church. The entire village has been declared a National Monument. Apart from the gospel, the missionaries taught their flocks many other skills, including thatching. To this day the inhabitants of Elim are sought after thatchers, responsible for many of the Cape’s famous thatched roofs.

GENERAL INFORMATION

How to get there

Arniston / Waenhuiskrans 53 km, Bredasdorp 36 km, Caledon 77 km, Napier 30 km, Stanford 32 km, Struisbaai 42 km.

HISTORICAL VIEW

Moravian Church & Clock

In the heart of the village stands the huge white-washed church (1842) with it’s 200 year old clock. The clock is still keeping time perfectly.

Slave Monument

The only monument in South Africa commenmorating the freeing of slaves in 1834, many of whom found a home in Elim.

The old Watermill

It’s restored wooden wheel is the largest in the country. Wheat is still milled with stone grinders.

NATURE

Geelkop Nature Reserve

Well known for it’s variety of fynbos, especially the Protea pudens which is unique to Geelkop.

Scenic Drive

Between Elim and Wolvengat (Viljoenshof). Most varied fynbos environment found on this road.

ATTRACTIONS

Annual Events

Elim Love Feast – August

Elim Special Children’s Festival – August

Elim Flower Festival – September (every 2^nd year)

Die Dam

Popular camping and angling resort

Wild Flower

Visit the flower shed in Elim to see how the wild flowers are prepared for export.

ACTIVITIES

Bosluis Hiking Trail