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Footpath towards Sigfield. Author JThomas.

Top 10 Facts about Sedgefield, South Africa

It lies between pine-covered hills and beautiful unspoiled beaches, in the heart of the Lakes district and the South African Garden Route.

This picturesque resort is a nature lover’s paradise, offering the visitor rich and varied birdlife, including marine, estuarine and evergreen forest species which can be viewed along many hiking trails and bird hides.

Nature has blessed this area with a pleasant temperate climate, and moderate rainfall throughout the year, conducive to an abundance of natural forests, fynbos, and a variety of wildflowers. A birdwatcher’s delight with over 250 listed species.

1. The Lakes In The Area Form A Continuous Water Plateau

The lakes in the area form a continuous water plateau, separated from the Indian Ocean by a narrow dune-like strip of land. On the western side of the village lies Swartvlei, by far the largest of the lakes in the district with the estuary forming a safe bathing area for young and old.

The estuary and endless beaches offer the bather and fisherman days of lazy sunbathing and fishing off the beach or estuary, as well as spearfishing off Gericke’s Point, where interesting rock formations will delight the beachcomber who might even come across relics of prehistoric strandlopers.

2. It Has A Municipal Status

A fast-growing township with municipal status, Sedgefield has a provincial library, 2 schools, several churches, a retirement village, and several social, cultural, and sports associations. It also provides a good infrastructure for both residents and visitors as more businesses open their doors frequently.

To the east of Sedgefield lies Groenvlei, a freshwater lake famous for bass fishing that forms part of the Goukamma Nature Reserve that stretches across to the Goukamma River estuary at Buffalo Bay, and along the coast.

Fine examples of milkwood trees, some 700-800 years old, and Stinkwoods to name a few, are found along trails at the edge of the lake and in the pristine forest. Some 220 species of birdlife inhabit the coastline, among them the elusive Knysna Loerie, African Fish Eagle and the African Black Oystercatcher.

3. It Translated Well To The Original Afrikaans Name Of Ruigtevlei

The name of Sedgefield was but one of several names considered by Moodie. In the end, the fact that it translated well to the original Afrikaans name of Ruigtevlei as well as the observation that it was very descriptive of the environment gave sway in favor of the name.

John named the town in honor of his father’s birthplace Sedgefield in the United Kingdom. Kate Maurice (née Barrington) inherited the farm Sedgefield from her brother upon his death in 1901.

4. It Was Made Part Of Knysna When The ANC Came To Power

Until the end of the 20th century, Sedgefield was an independent local authority. When the ANC came to power nationally, for a variety of reasons, they decided to reduce the total of such local authorities country-wide and Sedgefield became part of Knysna. This was a decision that was opposed by many of the residents.

5. The Town’s Main Economic Activity Revolves Around Tourism

The town’s main economic activity revolves around tourism. Other secondary activities are centered on serving the needs of residents and regional farmers.

The laid-back rustic village atmosphere is reflected in the town’s motto of being a place where ‘the tortoise sets the pace. It is the first African member of the Cittaslow movement.

 A popular attraction is the Wild Oats market which attracts large numbers of tourists and residents from the region every Saturday morning with fresh produce and local crafts. A golf course (the ‘Fynbos Links’), tennis court, and bowls field cater to the significant portion of retired permanent residents of the town.

6. Gericke Which Is One Of The Local Attractions, Resembles The Profile Of A Resting Lion

Local natural attractions include Gericke’s lookout point which resembles the profile of a resting lion and the protected natural dune areas which harbor Cape Fynbos plantations and rare birds.

Lying between George and Knysna on the Garden Route and 490 km from Cape Town, Sedgefield is a beautiful seaside village surrounded by lakes, and dunes covered in fynbos, pine plantations, the Swartvlei Estuary, and the Indian Ocean.

7. There are now 66 beautiful mosaics throughout the Sedgefield

It is considered the Mosaic Capital of the Garden Route. There are now 66 beautiful mosaics throughout the town and more are on the way. People can do a self-drive with a brochure giving directions or they can opt for a guide who will give them more information about the town and life here as they explore the area visiting the mosaic artworks.

8. Groenvlei Lake Is The only freshwater lake Here

Groenvlei Lake, the only freshwater lake in the district, lies to the east of Sedgefield and is popular for its Bass fishing. The lake forms part of the Goukamma Nature Reserve, which stretches from the river of the same name to Buffalo Bay, and has some of the highest vegetated dunes in the country.

9. The Area Around Sedgefield Is A Network Of Fynbos, Lakeside, And Forest Hiking Trails

The area around Sedgefield is a network of fynbos, lakeside, and forest hiking trails, bearing names like the ‘Pied Kingfisher trail’ and the ‘Brown-hooded Kingfisher trail’, meandering through rivers and forests. Maps for the walks are available from the Rondevlei Wilderness National Park office.

It is safe to say that Sedgefield is a paradise for those who love the great outdoors and because of all the water is a veritable feast of water sports. To the west of Sedgefield is the Swartvlei, one of the largest lakes in the area, forming a safe estuary for swimming and some excellent fishing.

10. It Hosts The ‘Paragliding Fly In’ Competition

The ‘Paragliding Fly In’ competition, which has gained popularity over the past few years, has earned Sedgefield a reputation amongst paragliders. The competition has been included in the Sedgefield Lakes Festival, initially falling over the Easter weekend but now taking place in September to coincide with the Eastern Cape Yachting Provincials.