Somerset East

The area surrounding the modern town has had numerous names over the years. Hintsani, a Khoikhoi chief named the area Nojoli. As colonial influence moved further east, it was named Agter Bruintjies Hoogte, Somerset Farm, Somerset, Somerset East, and recently the town was renamed KwaNojoli.

Somerset East, at the foot of the Bosberg Mountains (Xhosa: Intaba kaNojoli), is known for its natural environment and for its provincial heritage sites and buildings. The forested, mountainous backdrop frames the town, with a number of hiking trails in the wooded Bosberg Nature Reserve. The area is a bird-watching destination, with other outdoor activities including trout fishing (rainbow and brown trout), malaria-free safari and hunting trips. The Somerset East Golf Club, one of the oldest in the country, was formally opened in 1897. The present course has 9 holes located at the foot of the Bosberg.

Notable buildings and monuments in the town include the Old Wesleyan Chapel, which houses the Somerset East Museum, and the Officers' Mess, which houses the largest permanent exhibition of paintings by the South African artist Walter Battiss.