Situated about 7km inland from the popular seaside holiday town of Stilbaai, Melkhoutfontein is certainly one of Hessequa’s most underrated gems. It was established as a fisherman’s settlement in the 1850s with its cute, white-washed and thatch-roofed houses quickly becoming its defining feature. The hamlet’s history took a controversial and unfortunate turn during Apartheid when it was set apart as a coloured residential area and segregated from Stilbaai, cutting it off from many economic opportunities.

Despite this setback, the community has managed to cling to its proud heritage and is now reaping the benefits of being one of the Garden Route’s most unstaged destinations for intra-cultural tourism experiences.

The Dutch NGO, the Dreamcatcher Foundation, is an active stakeholder in ensuring that the village of Melhoutfontein develops and that the community benefits from every opportunity that comes its way. The Dreamcatcher Foundation has assisted in the set-up of traveller experiences like Cook-up Kammamas and Kammama Home-stays. The foundation is also ensuring that community and social upliftment takes place by facilitating exchange students from abroad to work with/on community projects facilitated by the Dreamcatcher Foundation. 

Melkhoutfontein – with its rich history – is home to the architecturally beautiful Anglican Church, which is a prominent feature for photographers. If you are looking for excellent photography opportunities, it is advisable to take a walkabout through town – you are expected to see interesting architecture and friendly locals. Many of the residential houses in Melkhoutfontein is colorfully painted with some having beautiful artwork reflecting the way of life in Melkhoutfontein. 

The town of Melkhoutfontein now also serves as gateway to the coastal town of Gouritsmond by means of a gravel road network, which is ideal for the off-the-beaten-track traveller.