We made a short detour to Bathurst, a historic village in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, located a short distance inland from Port Alfred near the Kowie River. This charming rural settlement is closely associated with the arrival of British settlers in 1820 and retains a distinctive English-village atmosphere.
Founded in 1820 as an administrative centre and a buffer against frontier conflicts, the village was named after the Earl of Bathurst, then Secretary of State for War and the Colonies. Today, Bathurst is known for its traditional village architecture, relaxed pace of life, and a diverse community of farmers, artists, and academics connected with nearby Rhodes University.
Our first stop was the village’s most iconic landmark: the Big Pineapple—a remarkable 16.7-metre-tall fibreglass structure shaped like a giant pineapple. It celebrates the region’s thriving pineapple-growing industry, which has long been an important part of the local economy. Naturally, we couldn’t leave without picking up a few delicacies for our expedition truck’s fridge!
From there, we headed to the Pig and Whistle Inn, traditionally dated to 1821 and associated with settler Thomas Hartley. Widely regarded as one of South Africa’s oldest licensed pubs, this historic establishment is an essential stop for anyone exploring Bathurst. We then enjoyed a leisurely walk through the village, soaking up its old-world charm and peaceful country atmosphere.
