Ride across the river

Malagas (or Malgas) is probably the only area in South Africa that still has a hand operated pontoon. The pontoon started operating in 1860 and is still going strong today. If you were to go to Malagas, coming from the Heidelberg side, you would need to use this pontoon as there is no bridge across the river between the N2 highway and the sea. The pontoon can take two cars at a time and it takes ten minutes for your car to be pulled across. The operators pull the pont across the river by wrapping a short length of chain around a cable spanned across the river. They then walk the length of the pontoon pulling it across the river in the process. 

For many years the pont was powered by Moxie Dunn, a former goat farmer who assumed the duties of ferryman from 1961 to 1986. Now three men do the work that Moxie did single-handedly.

This pont or river ferry serves as a vital link between the east and west bank communities of the Breede River. The Breede River is one of the largest, most navigable rivers in South Africa and was a regular stop for steam boats transporting fruit, wine and provisions up and down the river.  It was also a life-saving form of transport for produce, cattle and residents. 

Malagas is 280kms from Cape Town and to get there you take the N2 from Cape Town over Sir Lowry's Pass towards Caledon.  Just before Swellendam, you turn right at the Malgas, Infanta turn-off. However, if you come from the Heidelberg side, you need to use the Pont and you need to remember that it closes at sunset. I think, if I were going to Malagas, I would always come in from the Heidelberg side just to be able to experience the nostalgia of the pontoon and a time when things were slower and more relaxed.

The Malagas Hotel is situated here and what better place for a conference? Far away from the hustle of the city, serenely situated and evocative of another area, the Malagas Hotel and the magnificent Breede River will contribute to your delegates’ clarity of thought and renew their enthusiasm. 

The hotel consists of 24 twin rooms, 17 family rooms and 4 large family rooms, each with an en-suite bathroom. Their wooden beams and classic "rietdak" ceilings are a feature of the entire hotel, adding to the rustic atmosphere.

The meals are best described as "South African Home Cooking" and are designed to be tasty and wholesome and include many favourite traditional dishes. A selection of South African wines is available to complement your meal. Pub Lunches are served at the “Moxies Bar" (named after the long standing operator of the Pont), on the enclosed veranda or outside under shade or sun.

Malagas is offering an all inclusive conference package from R558 per person!

This 45 roomed Old-Cape styled hotel is a tranquil and elegant venue for conferences of up to 120 delegates. The sunset river cruises, canoe trips, bird-watching, fishing, pub and tasty cuisine will all add to the success and fun of your conference or get-together. The Malagas team can also arrange Karaoke evenings, Potjieskos Competitions or Spitbraai if requested.

The Business Package, at R199 per person, includes:

• 3 course lunch
• 2 x Tea and biscuits
• Conference facilities
• Use of canoes

The Executive Package, at R259 per person, includes:

• 4 course lunch
• 2 x Tea with eats, eg scones and cream
• Conference facilities
• Use of canoes

Accommodation costs

Terms and conditions

Note that these rates only apply when the conference special is taken up.

The conference package is valid until the end of the 2012.

The offer excludes high season periods such as Christmas and Easter.

Contact details for Malagas Hotel

Tel: (028) 542-1049
Fax: (028) 542-1718 
E-Mail:  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Web: www.malagashotel.co.za

Malagas Hotel on the Conven.co.za website

Useful links and sources

SJ du Toit on Overberg.co.za

Cape Town Tourism website

Turtle SA Tours

Swellendam Backpackers