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Hankey - Where heritage meets the hills
Nestled between the Gamtoos River and green valleys, Hankey tells stories of early engineering, rich agriculture and warm community spirit.
AT A GLANCE
Quick facts & feel
Location
Location: In the Gamtoos Valley, ~74 km from Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.
Known for
South Africa’s oldest irrigation tunnel, Africa’s largest sundial, and the Sarah Baartman Memorial.
Best time
…
Vibe
Rural, historic and friendly — citrus fields meet small-town calm.
- 1826 by the London Missionary Society.
- ± 11,700 (2011 Census).
- Afrikaans, isiXhosa, English.
THINGS TO DO
Heritage, valley views & slow drives
Saartjie Baartman Memorial
Walk up Vergaderingskop to the resting place of Sarah Baartman — a moving and important South African heritage site.
Philip Irrigation Tunnel
Completed in 1844, this 228 m tunnel was South Africa’s first irrigation tunnel — an engineering milestone still visible today.
Hankey Sundial & Valley Views
Visit Africa’s largest sundial (34 m across) and soak in panoramic valley views from the lookout above town.
FOOD & COFFEE
Where to eat & drink
STAYS
Where to stay
Valley guesthouses
Small, family-run stays surrounded by orchards and mountain views.
Farm lodges
Rustic charm with fireplaces and wide verandas for sunset views.
Nearby Patensie
More accommodation options along the scenic R331 towards Baviaanskloof.
PRACTICAL
When to go & how to get there
When to go
Best time to visit: September – April for warm, sunny days and green valleys; winters are mild and quiet.
Getting there
1 hr drive from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) via N2 and R330; 35 min from Jeffreys Bay; roads are tarred with free parking in town.
Plan your Hankey visit
Explore heritage sites, enjoy farm-fresh meals and discover the quiet side of the Gamtoos Valley.
© THE GREATER GARDEN ROUTE
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