Called “KwaZanele” by the locals, this small town was named for the owner of the farm on which the town was laid out. The town lies 1 794 m above sea level on the watershed between the Vaal River system that flows westward towards the Atlantic Ocean and the Komati and Olifants River systems that flow east to the Indian Ocean. The source of the Vaal River is located at a spring 2km from Breyten. Opposite the spring is the so-called Mail Coach Rock, where early transport drivers carved inscriptions on the rock as they passed the spot. Breyten was once a major railway depot and an old steam locomotive at the entrance to the town pays fitting tribute to this fact. Enthusiasts also enjoy the rides on the many steam engines that are kept in town.
Archaeology And Palaeontology
Ruins: Old stone ruins, the dwellings of the Leghoya, a Sotho tribe, have been found in the district.
Art And Crafts
Craft Centre: Handmade woollen products can be bought at the Self-help Craft Centre in the old railway station building.
Other Attractions
Steam train enthusiasts will love this town on account of the large number of old steam locomotives in the town. Exhibitions and special “rides” are regularly conducted.
