There is general agreement that the name gains it’s reference from the huge rock next ot the police station. Some claim that the rock resembles a dog and that the ‘head’ was struck off long ago by lightning. There is, in all probability, truth in the legend that a large pack of marauding wild dogs were destroyed in the vicinity of the rock and that this event prompted hunters to give the bay it’s present name. It is difficult to believe that this popular coastal resort was once a major exporting harbour for the copper mined in Namaqualand. The area offers excellent fishing opportunities and has a crayfish processing plant.

GENERAL INFORMATION

How to get there

Springbok 104 km (gravel road)

HISTORICAL VIEW

Old Gaol

The ruins of an old gaol are found approximately 48 km from Springbok, below the Messelpad (so named because of the dressed stone embankments which supports the road) on the banks of the Buffels River. The buildings were erected between 1867 and 1869 and were used to house the convicts who built the road. After completion of the Messelpad Pass in 1869 the buildings became derelict. This site can be reached either on foot or by using a four wheel drive vehicle as it lies 600 m down slope from the pass.

Shipwrecks

The wreck of the Aristea that ran aground in 1945 can be viewed south of the town

NATURE

Scenic Drives

Various scenic routes. Best during spring when the wild flowers are in bloom

ACTIVITIES

Crayfish Diving

Diving is allowed during season. Permits are obtainable in Springbok or Garies. Hondeklip Bay has a crayfish processing plant.

Accommodation in and around Malmesburry