Suurbraak, "A Place called Paradise" is a quaint village, nestled amongst streams of running water and sheltered by giant oaks, situated 19 km east of Swellendam, 10 km off the N2. The traveler encounters the town unexpectedly along the Tradouws River at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains. It lies about 5 km west of the majestic Tradouws Pass, on route between Swellendam, Barrydale and Heidelberg. The village is well worth a visit for tourists who wish to explore.

This traditional settlement drew the interests of the missionaries. It was established as a mission station in 1812 by the London Mission Society and later in 1875, taken over by the Algemeende Sending Kerk. In 1880 the Anglican church and school was built as a result of a split in the congregation. Community involvement in the church remains strong. The buildings of the village tell the story of its history. The first church, the parsonage and school, together with the old houses and buildings around the village square have been restored and are in use, as well as the Anglican church building. All are situated on the main road through the town.

The isolation of Suurbraak is one of its charms and limits the financial resources of the people. Many still cook on wood stoves, using an abundance of alien vegetation that grows in this area. The people live close to the land using farming methods that belong to the past. The smaller farms are still ploughed using horse drawn ploughs. Agricultural work is often done manually. Many households own at least one cow and some horses. Horse and donkey drawn carts are often seen here on the streets.

The village is well worth visiting on day trips. The mountains are rich in fynbos and bird life and cattle paths act as mountain trails for hikers and mountain bikers alike.

Community guides are available for village walks and mountain hikes. There are basic braai facilities alongside the river with spectacular pools. The riverine areas offer great bird-watching opportunities.