A personal experience of living in the Overberg, Western Cape, South Africa. Copyright images: Herman van Bon Photography
Elim is especially known as one of the few towns in the Western Cape where the Moravian church rules about the wellbeing of its ‘sheep’. And yes; there is also some nasty politics involved. But that set aside the town is worthwhile a visit with amongst others the oldest Slave Monument in South Africa (another slave monument is in Pniel between Franschhoek and Stellenbosch.
The Moravian church is in the centre of it all. I was able to obtain the key for a shoot inside.
There are two graveyards (cemetries); one nearby the church and one between the trees at the other side of town. Interesting are the gate signs at both locations; when you go in (freely translated) ‘Sown in weakness’ and when you go out ‘Conceived in power’
(Retrospective 2019)
Most tourists only know Napier of landmark; the DR-Church, a magnificent building. They pass the village and stop only to make a picture of the church or go into one of the eateries. But there is sooo much more. Napier is a destination in its own right with not only artists but with a toy museum (by appointment) beautiful vistas (just take the time to explore the back roads); a miniature steam engine maker (with global export), a military museum, a pottery, the largest sundial in South Africa, a 90 yr old woman making bird dens for sale at ‘Greta’s Place’ along the main road (many collector’s items over there), etc. etc.
Since recently Stellar Lodge and Private Gallery Napier also offer three day workshops jewellery making, painting and photography for beginners (including light lunch etc.).
But what makes this village also an outstanding multi-day destination is that is centrally located in the Overberg with places as Gansbaai, Cape Agulhas, Hermanus, Arniston, Swellendam and Greyton within 1 hour drive. For an active affordable holiday think twice….
More info: greenc2 -at- me.com or +27 (0)60 712 4001 We can also mediate in finding the right accommodation,
