Overberg

Overberg is a region in the Western Cape province of South Africa. The name derives from Afrikaans and Dutch, meaning “over the mountain” or “beyond the mountain,” a reference to its position beyond the Hottentots-Holland Mountains from Cape Town. It covers coastal and inland areas, extending from the southern outskirts of Cape Town along the Atlantic coast eastward to the Cape Agulhas region.

Geography and environment: The landscape combines coastal plains with inland valleys framed by low mountain ranges. The coast includes rugged headlands and beaches, while the inland scenery features farmland, forests, and rolling hills. The Overberg is part of the Cape Floristic Region and sustains diverse fynbos and renosterveld vegetation.

Climate and biodiversity: The region experiences a Mediterranean-type climate with winter rainfall and dry summers. Its biodiversity includes many endemic plant species, birds, and coastal marine life protected in nearby reserves and parks such as the Cape Agulhas National Park.

Economy and tourism: Agriculture is a major component, with fruit orchards, dairy farming, and wine production in some valleys; tourism is important due to whale watching in coastal towns, nature reserves, hiking routes, and other outdoor activities. The Cape Whale Coast and Cape Agulhas National Park are notable attractions.

History and culture: The area was inhabited by Khoikhoi and San peoples before European settlement. Dutch settlers established farms and towns in the 17th and 18th centuries, and today the Overberg preserves a rural character with historic towns such as Swellendam, Caledon, and Hermanus.