Mossel Bay

Situated halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth is the quaint town of Mossel Bay. Part of the Garden Route, it is the epitome of bustling seaside living. Mossel Bay is thriving with an economy built on farming, fishing, offshore gas, tourism and its commercial harbour. With so much happening, buyers are eyeing up Mossel Bay's many attractive properties.

A brief history of the area

This is the site where indigenous South Africans first welcomed European visitors. 'Mossel' translates to 'mussels' in Dutch and Afrikaans. It is believed Dutch explorer, Paulus van Caerden, named the bay to recognise the abundance of mussels that supplied his crew. As the site where human behaviour is thought to have emerged, Mossel Bay is so much more than a beach holiday destination.

Climate

If you thrive in mild conditions, Mossel Bay is for you. Mossel Bay has a very moderate, pleasant climate. The average annual temperature is 17.7 °C. The town enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year. Mossel Bay is popular for wind sports because of its strong but not excessive winds. Precipitation averages 445 mm.

Schools in the area

Looking for an excellent Mossel Bay school? You will find many that will get your child on the path to greatness.

Primary schools include Erika Primary School, Ridgeview Primary School, Milkwood Primary School, Laerskool Hartenbos, Laerskool Park and Garden Route Primary.

High schools include Hillcrest Secondary School, Hoërskool Sao Bras, Hoërskool Punt and Curro Mossel Bay (Grade 1 to Grade 12).

Healthcare in the area

There is a range of healthcare options in the area. Hospitals include Mossel Bay Hospital and Life Bay View Private Hospital. There are also many general practitioners, dentists, paediatricians and ophthalmologists for all your medical needs.

Shopping centres

You won't have any problems crossing items off your shopping list. Mossel Bay Mall and Bayside Shopping Centre provide a friendly and convenient retail experience. If you're searching for unusual items, be sure to stop at The Goods Shed Fleamarket. This gem is worth a visit for crafts, gifts, hardware and clothes.

Distance from key points (Airport/CBD)

The driving distance from Mossel Bay to George Airport is 41 km. This will take you roughly 33 minutes to reach your destination with an average speed of 80 km/h.

Restaurants

Mossel Bay has a number of delightful establishments. You can eat out at Carola Ann's, Route 57 Restaurant, Cafe Gannet, Kaai 4 Braai Restaurant and Stars Restaurant, to name a few options.

For a convenient stop, there are plenty of fast food outlets. These include Steers, Roman's Pizza, McDonald's and KFC.

Special attractions

1. Santos Beach

This water paradise promises a fun day. It boasts Blue Flag status, and you can expect safe sunbathing, pleasant swimming and ample parking.

2. Garden Route Casino

The feel-good vibe here will get you in the mood for gaming, spa treatments and fine dining.

3. Mossel Bay Golf Club

The club prioritises friendly service to give you an exceptional golfing experience. It has challenging greens and fairways, top-notch facilities and a well-stocked restaurant.

4. Diaz Express

This rail adventure has a number of exciting routes between George Mossel Bay. Get on board for a peaceful, picturesque journey.

5. Diaz Water Park

You'll get an adrenaline rush here. The water park has various super tubes, as well as a heated pool. Ideal for both the young and old.

6. Seal Island Reserve

Want to see thousands of these amazing creatures up close? Take a boat cruise to this protected sanctuary. You'll also get to see African penguins.

7. Harry Giddy Park

This pretty park is Mossel Bay's best-kept secret. It features play areas for children, birds animals, picnic spots.

Museums and landmarks

1. Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex

This museum is named after the Portuguese explorer who sailed around the southernmost tip of Africa. As such, it celebrates Mossel Bay's history with tales of innovation, discovery and exploration. The museum complex comprises of the Shell Museum, the Maritime Museum and the Granary. Highlights include the oldest post office box in South Africa, the Malay Graves and the ethnobotanical garden.

2. Cape St Blaize

You'll find Cape St Blaize a dream destination if you're a photographer. The views from the top of the Cape St Blaize Lighthouse provide breathtaking views of thundering waves breaking against the shoreline. In a cliff below the lighthouse, you'll find the Cape St Blaize Cave. This is an important archaeological site where hunter-gatherers took shelter. You can follow the Cape St Blaize hiking trail which takes you along the coast. On this beautiful walk, you may even spot a whale or dolphin.

3. Point of Human Origins

Discover yourself with a tour of early human history. You'll get to see the site of the earliest artefacts of modern human beings. With the right tour guide, you'll explore the geographical, historical and archaeological significance of the caves in great detail.

4. Mossel Bay War Memorial

If you find war history fascinating, the Mossel Bay War Memorial is worth a visit. It commemorates Mossel Bay residents who lost their lives during the First World War and the Second World War.

Make Mossel Bay your home. Let it be your story.

There's much to love about Mossel Bay. The town is filled friend faces, stunning views, and so much do. Looking put down some roots? Contact Seeff Mossel Bay today.