Bo-Kapie

Bo-Kapie is a historic self-catering cottage constructed in 1833, distinguished as one of Swellendam's oldest houses and the last remaining property connected to the town's slave history, which concluded with emancipation in 1834. Located in Swellendam, South Africa's third-oldest town, the property sits along the N2 National Road between Cape Town and George on the Garden Route.

The cottage exemplifies Cape Georgian architecture, featuring a flat roof and moulded parapet characteristic of Muslim artisan craftsmanship of the period. Its design mirrors the iconic Bo-Kaap houses of upper Cape Town, with a vertical panelled front door and fanlight replacing the traditional Cape Dutch stable door. The fanlight serves as the sole window in the "voorhuis" (front room), and the property features artistic net curtains on its Victorian sash window, painted by renowned Swellendam artist Jan du Toit.

This charming accommodation offers two bedrooms: a main bedroom with an en-suite Victorian bath and a second bedroom containing three single beds with a separate bathroom. The cottage can host up to seven guests and is fully equipped for self-catering, complete with bedding. Notable features include an open hearth in the living room and kitchen area, with wood provided for guests' use. The "voorhuis" provides additional sleeping space for two guests.

Centrally positioned in Swellendam, Bo-Kapie provides convenient access to local attractions including museums, restaurants, shops, golf courses, hiking trails, and the Marloth and Bontebok Nature Reserves. The property comprises a three-bedroom layout, with the main room featuring a double bed en-suite, a second room with twin beds, and the "voorhuis" equipped with two sleeper couches and an additional bathroom.