BARRYDALE - General Info and History

Barrydale is a village located on the border of the Overberg and Klein Karoo regions of the Western Cape Province in South Africa.
Named after Joseph Barry, a well-known merchant of the 19th century, it is situated at the northern end of the Tradouw's pass which winds its way through the mountains to Swellendam.

History
Barrydale's history dates back to the early 18th century when farmers moved into the area looking for fertile arable land with water. The community built their church on a spot where the R62 and R324 roads meet. In the days before the church was built, there were a number of 'nagmaal' houses (houses where Holy Communion could be celebrated) and a school, but not much else.
The Dutch Reformed Community of Barrydale came into being in 1878 when land was purchased to build the church.

As the farmers in the area were encouraged to plant vineyards and orchards, it was natural that a winery and distillery would eventually be built. In 1940 the Barrydale Koöperatiewe Wynkelder was formed and a distillery established giving rise to the wine industry in the area. Joseph Barry Brandy, produced locally, was voted best brandy in the world in 2003.

Over the years the village grew and eventually a municipality was established in 1921. Today there is an estimated population of roughly 4200 permanent residents. The population increases dramatically in the tourist season, with visitors drawn by markets, local arts & crafts including textiles, jewellery and African souvenirs.

Climate
Barrydale has a temperate climate of warm, dry summers with averages of 25°C occasionally up to 35°C, and mild, wet winters when the temperature occasionally dips to around -1°C accompanied by light frosts.

The warm temperate climate is perfect for the growth of various fruit trees with numerous orchards on the fertile soils of the Tradouw Valley. Apples, pears and oranges are harvested in the winter and crops of apricots, figs, cling peaches and grapes in the summer.

Culture
Barrydale is culturally diverse for a small village with English- and Afrikaans-speaking inhabitants as well as a substantial European expatriate community.

The annual Barrydale Spring Festival in October is an important event on the town's calendar and so are some Sporting Events such as Marathons & Cycling Events.

(Primary Source: WIKIPEDIA)