History & Local

The Eastern Cape has a rich cultural history and is most famous for being the home of ex President Nelson Mandela.
It is here that the Xhosas, Afrikaners & English met for the first time, both the Boers and the Xhosa were stock farmers.
The competition for grazing land led first to quarrels between the two groups and eventually it came to a number of wars
known as the grensoorlöe ("border wars" in Afrikaans). With the founding of the South African Union in 1910, the British
colony and the independent Boer Republics were united. A modern "democratic" state was formed, in which only the
white population could execute the right to vote.

Although today the Eastern Cape is well known as the home of the Xhosa people, they weren't the first people in the
Eastern Cape. The Bushmen thrived in the Eastern Cape before the Nguni tribes moved south from the North-East of
Africa, evidence of their inhabitance can still be found in San rock art all over the Eastern Cape.

Local Attractions

The suburb of Nahoon in East London, Eastern Cape is known for it’s beautiful beaches and great surfing spots. It is a quiet and safe area and is perfect for those looking to enjoy a summer holiday. Nahoon is very central and is close to all local ammenities.

Beachbreak Café

This is one of the most amazing spots in East London, whether you have just been to the beach, are going to the beach or are in the area - you should definitely stop at the Beachbreak. A great place to relax and enjoy a refeshing drink, or a delicious lunch - you will not be disappointed.

Footprints Café

Nestled among the dunes of the Nahoon Point Nature Reserve is where you will find Footprints Café. With its superb location and close proximity to the famous surf spot, Nahoon Reef. Come and get a bite to eat from our superb menu or simply for the best cup of coffee you will find in East London.

Nahoon Lifesavers Clubhouse

Enjoy some musical entertainment, bands, acoustic sessions and an extremely chilled evening at the Nahoon Beach. On a Thursday evening you can also experience a firedancing display and a relaxed group gathering at the Nahoon beach.

Ballyhoo Cruises

Enjoy a sunset sea cruise on the Ballyhoo, which sails out from the East London Harbour and into the Indian Ocean, where you can spot otters, dolphins and whales. It is a truly beautiful experience.

Inkwenkwezi Game Reserve

Well known for their Giant burger challenge on a Wednesday evening, Inkwenkwezi is situated approximately 25km’s away from Harewood Lodge. Enjoy a Game Drive or experience their recently introduced, “Elephant Interaction”

Quad bike Safari

Learn to drive a semi-automatic quad bike and take a guided game drive through the Areena game reserve, a part of the Areena River Resort on the East Coast Resorts Road. There are three routes – a 20min route, 1 hour route and a 2 hour route. Navigate through the resort and enjoy a unique African experience.

Other East London Activities

There are so many things to do in East London, and Nahoon is situated in the center of all the action. If you are looking for a place to eat out, you can
visit one of the many popular choices within a 10 minute drive from the Lodge: Sprouts / Casa Verde, La Petit, Cape Town Fish Market, Smokey Swallows,
Grazia Fine Food and Wine, Two Dogs Bistro, Café Neo. Other activites and attractions include, the Lion Park and organised tours, which can be arranged
on request and to fit your requirements.