"Big" little towns: Arniston

Arniston, also known as Waenhuiskrans, lies on the shores of Marcus Bay, just north-east of Cape Agulhas. This town got its name after a ship that was wrecked on its coastline in 1815.

It was one of the worst sea disasters in South Africa's history with only six survivors (out of 378) left alive to tell the tale.

Don't let this image of "doom and gloom" scare you though.

This village has moved on and become a thriving tourist attraction and a haven for artists and photographers. Despite the dangerous cliffs, the majestic sand dunes and ever popular beaches are what keep people coming back year after year.

You can take the family for a walk along the never ending beach, relax with a book under the sun, or splash about in the crisp cool ocean.

No matter how you decide to spend the day in Arniston, it will be worth it.

This historically enriched town is perfect for those desperate for some down time. Not having given in to commercialism, all you will find in Arniston is a hotel and tiny supermarket.

You can forget about the hustle and bustle that is city life for as long as you like.

Being a fishing village, you can even help the fisherman out when they bring in their catch. If you mind getting your hands dirty that is...

For all those history "boffs" out there, if you get the chance to explore the coastline, take it!

The Khoisan strandlopers built fish traps in the stone built enclosures of the coast to catch fish and these prehistoric traps are still there along with fish bones and shells.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to see what remains of these vanished people.

If you'd like some more options to pass the time (beside the gorgeous beach) we have a few places you may like to explore in or near Arniston:

• Agulhus National Park:

The Agulhas National Park lies at the southernmost tip of Africa, just 45 minutes away from Gansbaai.

Come here if you are keen to see the place where the tow oceans meet as well as diverse amounts of lowland fynbos that are considered to be endangered. Not only do they focus on the reintroduction of endangered plants, but also animals.

Rumours surround the re-breeding of the guagga and Cape lion. If anyone knows anything about this, be sure to let us know!

Other highlights include the lighthouse at Cape Agulhas and the graveyard of ships that lie just off the coast where some 250 ships have been wrecked over time. In season, whale watching is also a plus.

For more info contact: (028) 435 6222

• Waenhuiskrans Nature Reserve

This nature reserve lies a short distance from the town of Arniston. Here, one can view the tidal cave so large that an ox wagon and its span of oxen could make a comfortable about turn whilst still in the cave.

The ‘Waenhuiskrans Grot' is the main attraction of the reserve which includes the sand dunes and amazing views of the coastline.

Remember that you need comfortable shoes for the walk through the reserve and to the cave. There are rocks to climb and wading through some tidal pools, but the experience is surely worthwhile.

• Cape Agulhas Wine Route

Yes, you read it correctly. Cape Agulhus has a wine route! Most vineyards are found in the village of Elim thanks to its cool winds and climate.

The farms here have as their slogan - ‘Real wine, Real people' and this encapsulates the atmosphere and flavoursome wines in this little hamlet.

Care to try something different? Explore the Cape Agulhus Wine route on your next visit.

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