There's something special about the quaint town of Bredasdorp.

Lying on a hill known as Preekstoel, this town named after the first mayor of Cape Town Michiel van Breda, claims to be the first town or ‘dorp' established in South Africa.

As quiet as this town is on any given day, Bredasdorp is known as the economic hub of the Cape Agulhus region and swarms with tourists.

Proteas that grow on the hills are one of the main products this town boasts.

I warn you though, that despite this, the town may be a buzz in the morning but when it comes to later in the day and it is so still and quiet that you could hear a pin drop.

If you need a drastic change of pace and scenery, give Bredasdorp a try for your next vacation.

Just because it is a little "dorp" does not mean that it hasn't had its' very own historical issues. Former mayor Van Breda and his neighbour Pieter Voltelyn van der Byl were in conflict about where the Dutch Reformed Church should be built.

Neither man would give in, resulting in the establishment of two churches - one in Bredasdorp and the other in the small town of Napier.

(It was previously the location of van der Byl's farm)

Bredasdorp is probably best known for its Shipwreck Museum. This is something to be proud of as it is the only one of its kind in the county.

The museum is dedicated to the wreck of the Arniston on 30 May 1815, which killed 372 people during a storm near Waenhuiskrans.

The museum houses a collection of artefacts from ships that have been wrecked along the coast over the years.

Some pieces of furniture that were salvaged are restored here and on display.

Are you a nature lover? The Heuningberg Nature Reserve at the top end of Van Riebeeck Street in Bredasdorp is definitely something to consider visiting.

Go for short hikes or long walks on the mountain... it's always a good way to clear ones' head.

Stay over at the Bunchu Bushcamp which promises not to dissapoint.

If you'd like some more options to pass the time in this historically rich town, we have a few places you may like to explore in or near Bredasdorp:

• EnviroWines Bistro

Situated in Long Street, the EnviroWines Bistro is a very popular wine lounge and tea garden in the centre of the town. Have a scrumptious meal while your kids play in the plush garden. The bistro is open every day, except for Monday, and dinner is served on reservation over weekends.

The staff are extremely friendly and capable. They speak English, Afrikaans, German and Spanish!

There's more!

In mid 2009 a wine-tasting shop will open on the same premises offering quality wines which have been audited by the strict criteria and received the quality seal of EnviroWines.

For more info contact: (028) 424-2158

• Salmonsdam Nature Reserve

Just 20 kilometres of the village of Stanford, the Salmonsdam Nature Reserve is well known as both a hikers' and bird watchers' heaven.

If you crave adventure in the pure simplicity and beauty of nature, decide on one of the great hikes on offer:

1) Waterfall Trail

2) Mountain Trail

For more info contact: (028) 314 0062

Going through a mid year slump?

Book your next holiday today! It will be worth it. Our packages include flights, car rental and accommodation.

Are there any other "Big" little towns you would like us to explore?

Leave a suggestion in our comments section below!