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At the Kenton tourism office, our team embodies passion, enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication. We live and breathe this region, with our hearts wide open, eager to showcase its wonders to both local and international visitors. Once you’ve immersed yourself in Kenton and its surrounding beauty, it’s hard not to find yourself wanting to linger just a little longer each day as a “bare-footer.” The area is rich with natural beauty, history, and timeless adventures. Our mission—one we’re absolutely thrilled to have—is to share our story with you, our next guest to The Barefoot Capital of the World!
Below you’ll find a brief overview of the gems of the region, Alexandria and Woody Cape. We hope to see you soon, and experience the best kept secret Mzanzi has on offer!
Alexandria, Eastern Cape, is a quaint town nestled 100 km northeast of Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) on the route to Bushman’s River Mouth, Kenton-on-Sea, and Port Alfred. Known for its rich history and stunning natural landscapes, Alexandria stands as the hub of a thriving dairy and chicory farming region. If you’re passing through, a visit to the renowned Maureen Quin Sculpture Garden offers a unique and memorable art experience.
For nature enthusiasts, take a scenic drive from Cannon Rocks along the Golden Mile to Alexandria, home to the largest shifting dune field in the Southern Hemisphere. Immerse yourself in the great outdoors by exploring Woody Cape’s 7km Dassie Trail through the indigenous forests of Alexandria, or embark on the unforgettable two-day Alexandria Hiking Trail. The Alexandria State Forest, known locally as Langebos, is a pristine stretch of indigenous forest bordering the expansive dune field, one of the largest active dune systems in the world. The Woody Cape Nature Reserve, extending from the Sundays River mouth to the Bushman’s River mouth and encompassing the dune field and forest, is now part of the Addo Elephant National Park.
Alexandria & Woody Cape History – The first Europeans to explore this region were Portuguese sailors led by Bartolomeu Dias, who landed at Kwaaihoek in 1488. By the late 1700s, hunters were venturing into the wooded forests and valleys, followed by several trekboere—migrant farmers who settled as far east as the Fish River. In its early years, the Alexandria district was called Olifantshoek, named for the large herds of elephants that roamed the area. In 1832, Evert Frederik Potgieter donated 300 morgen of his farm, Brakfontein, for the establishment of a town, although this was finalized only after he left during the Great Trek. On this land, a schoolhouse and church were built by Karel Landman, Piet Retief, and their slaves, leading to the area being named Kerkplaats (Churchplace). The town was later renamed Alexandria in honor of Reverend Alexander Smith, a Scottish minister who frequently conducted outdoor services in the area. The congregation also adopted his name. In 1856, Alexandria was declared a Magisterial District, and by 1924, it was placed under town management, eventually gaining municipal status in 1938.
Alexandria and Woody Cape offer a variety of accommodation, restaurants, activities and experiences that will make the most of your time with us, create amazing memories and leave you wanting!