Eastern Cape Provincial Article - South African Vacations

green, indigenous forests, is the commercial centre of the local Bhaca people.
The Bhaca people are noted for their colourful traditional costumes and
intricate beadwork. The vast Mzimvubu River valley lies south of the town.
CULTURAL/COMMUNITY TOURISM
Isinamva Cultural Village: Delicious traditional dishes can be enjoyed at the
Isinamva Cultural Village where visitors can meet and mingle with local Xhosa
people. The village was not developed for tourism purposes and reflects the
true circumstances of these people. Guests are greeted with enthusiasm and
entertained with folk tales and stories depicting the history and traditions of
their hosts. Guests may also learn and help with daily tasks such as milking,
herding and fetching water.
PORT GROSVENOR
Port Grosvenor is situated on Lwambasi Bay where two rival traders
attempted to establish a port for Pondoland in 1885. The undertaking was
doomed to failure but the spot stayed in the news as numerous attempts were
made to salvage the so-called treasures of the “Grosvenor”, a ship that sank
here in 1782. The legend that the Grosvenor was laden with treasure,
including the famous Peacock Throne of India, persisted, even though nothing
of value was ever found. Large swells and strong currents make diving here
very difficult.
PORT ST JOHNS
This beautiful coastal town is situated on the banks of the Umzimvubu River
among spectacular, densely forested cliffs. It is commonly believed that the
town was named after the Portuguese vessel, “São João” which ran aground
at the mouth of the Umtamvuna River, about 80 km further north, in June 1552.
It was thought that the river was the Umzimvubu and the ship’s name
was applied to the area Of the 540 people on board 440 survived and
reached the shore, only to face the daunting task of walking 700 km to
Lourenço Marques (Maputo). The first Europeans settled here in 1846 and,
although very remote, it was the ideal location for a trading post. The British
maintained a garrison here for many years. The town has retained much of its
isolated character, but one wonders for how long. There has recently been an
invasion of very different kind – several local and foreign film producers have
discovered it and use it as location to shoot their films.
ADVENTURE AND SPORT
Fishing: Deep-sea angling, rock-angling and shore-angling are excellent here.
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