Mamre, Western Cape

The small town of Mamre is situated between Darling and Atlantis on the Cape West Coast, approximately one hour outside of Cape Town.

This little unassuming town has a colourful history and is home to South Africa’s fifth oldest church which can be found in the remarkable Movarian Mission Station. The church and parsonage retain their charm and were listed as national monuments in 1967. The watermill has been lovingly restored and the church is still used for services and packed to capacity on any given Sunday.

Despite its religious past, wine has been part of the area’s history and the Darling Wine Cellar on Mamre road has the best of the region’s popular wines to offer. Take a heritage tour and sample some delightful Cape cuisine while enjoying a few wine tastings along the way!

Flower season in the area is between July and October, with August and September generally offering the best displays of what the gardens have to offer. Mamre holds a Wild Flower Festival in September each year so this is the best time to break away and experience the peacefulness and beauty of nature!

Mamre offers affordable one or two affordable Guesthouses and further accommodation can be found in Darling and other neighbouring towns.

Things to do and see

• Mamre Nature Garden
• Mamre Heritage Walk
• West Coast Way’s Cultural Route
• Moravian Mission Station
• Darling Wine Estates

Climate

Mamre receives approximately 513 mm of rain annually with the majority of rain occurring during winter.

Summer months, November to March will have average temperatures of between 14˚C and 28˚C.

Winter months, May to August will have average temperatures of between 6˚C and 19˚C.

Transport

There are daily domestic and international flights into Cape Town International Airport and approximately 66 km away via the N7.  Car rental companies are located at the Airport.

History

Mamre’s roots start early in South African history. It was first established in the 16th century as a military and cattle post and then later became a Dutch East India Company cattle farm.

In 1808, Lord Caledon, Governor of the Cape at the time, welcomed the establishment of a mission by Kohrhammer and Schmidt, two Moravian missionaries from Germany. Much like other small towns like Wupperthal, and Vanrhynsdorp, Mamre later grew into a small village along the West Coast.

The town was named after the biblical Mamre (Gen 13:18) - The 'great tree of Mamre' is where Abraham is said to have dwelled.