The beautiful Garden Route town of Swellendam has been recognised as the African continent's top eco-friendly destination, according to the international “Luxury Travel Guide”.

In the publication's annual awards list, Swellendam took top laurels in the Africa and Middle East Awards 2017 category, with Western Cape Minister of Economic Opportunities, Alan Winde, congratulating the town. 

“Tourism is one of our fastest-growing sectors and has the potential to add up to an additional 100 000 jobs to our economy if we put dedicated energy into it. Awards like this garner international promotion for our destination," Winde says. 

In correspondence to Swellendam Tourism, Luxury Travel Guide states that the awards “represent the pinnacle of travel and tourism achievement, championing the best in their respective fields”.

This third-oldest town in South Africa has a myriad of activities and attractions on offer, enough to keep one busy for a weekend stay, or much longer. The primary offering is the unspoilt nature that encapsulates the town, from the Bontebok. National Park to the various small farms and estates which are open for tourists' exploring. 

"All winners of the Luxury Travel Guide Awards are subject to the same rigorous assessment criteria, carried out by in-house professionals. This ensures only the most deserving firms and individuals walk away with one of these prestigious accolades and gain a place in our awards winners’ guide, which will be distributed to over 500 000 professional and affluent people worldwide." – Source: Traveller24