The town was started in 1844 on the farm Lange Kuil situated along the Zoutrivier. It’s original name was Zoute Rivier. In 1853 the town’s name was changed to Hopefield, inhonour of two officials who completed the survey for the town. Their names were Field and Hope.

The NG Church was erected in 1879 and is the reason for the town’s existence. The original manse in Tuin Street was built for the first minister in 1854. He lived there for 64 years, until 1923. Another manse was built in 1904 adjacent to the church. Organ performances can be organised.
A long house, known as “the train” is situated in Church Street. According to legend, post was delivered to this house where is was then sorted and sent on for delivery.

Tourist attractions in the area include a replica of an original “hartebeeshuisie” which was inherent to the area. The historical Cape Dutch homesteads, Coenradenburg and Langrietvlei which have been declared national monuments, may be visited by appointment. Elandsfontein, an archaeologists paradise, 13 kilometres from the town, is the famous fossil site where the skull of the “Saldanha” man and the fossils of primordial animals have been found.

The town, 120km from Cape Town, is situated on the R45 and can be reached by either the West Coast R27 or N7 highways.

Today the town serves the grain, dairy, meat, honey and waterblommetjie farmers of the area. It also boasts excellent education facilities and a modern retirement centre.

Hopefield is situated in the heart of Fynbos country with spectacular displays of wild flowers around the town and on the tarred road from Hopefield to Velddrif during August and September. The large wetland area provides the nature lover with prolific bird life and beautiful hiking trails especially in the Berg River area.

The town provides a peaceful and serene environment for its inhabitants whether young or old.
The climate is excellent; the summers are hot while the winters mild with an average of 300mm rain per annum. The price of property and fairly low rates and taxes attract many a city dweller who yearn for a quiet country retreat. It also boasts a modern, fully licenced sports complex with conference and function facilities.

The annual events are the hunting day held in June when hunting parties take to the veld to hunt the game in the area. At the fynbos Show held at the end of August more than 200 species are brought indoors and displayed in their natural environment. The “Commando” horse and tractor trail provides great enjoyment to many visitors who appreciate the breathtaking scenery not readily accessible to the public.

The beautiful flowers, clear air and famous West Coast hospitality are like a never ending symphony!

Contact the Hopefield Tourism Bureau on Tel. : 022-723-1720 and 073-187-6764

Source: Saldanha Tourism