Explore The Charms Of Graaff-Reinet
This famously well-preserved Eastern Cape town that sits midway between Gauteng and Cape Town harkens back to a life lived slower, in tune with nature’s seasons. Come with us as we meander through the town’s history, as well as our owners’ recommendations for where to sip, shop and feast in Graaff-Reinet.
Known as the ‘Gem of the Karoo,’ Graaff-Reinet has a fascinating history rivalled only by the boundless vistas and scenic natural surroundings that frame the town. Protective dolerite pinnacles rise above the town’s rooftops to the southwest, while a river borders its edge, largely protecting it from industrial development.
The Camdeboo region encircles Graaff-Reinet from the south of the Sneeuberg mountains as far as Pearston and Murraysburg and boasts broad plains, distant koppies, mountain ranges and star-filled night skies. The richness of pre-dinosaur fossils in this region is world-renowned and the nearby Valley of Desolation, part of the Camdeboo National Park inspires awe in all that witness it.
Learn about the town’s sometimes central role in South Africa’s history from one of Graaff-Reinet’s many museums, delve into the rich heritage of the peoples that have called this place home for centuries, and soak in the culture during your stay in this quaint town.
Whether guests choose to spend their time in Graaff-Reinet ambling down roads of yesteryear and popping into the ubiquitous coffee shops, artisan stores and town restaurants, or simply whiling away the afternoons in our expansive Langhuis garden with unimpeded views of Spandau Kop, Graaff-Reinet offers something to delight every discerning palate.
View our hand-picked recommendations in Graaff-Reinet below.
Visit the Reinet House Museum
The Graaff-Reinet Museum or “Reinet House”, formerly a Dutch Reformed Church parsonage, was built at the expense of the Government in 1812 during the ministry of the Rev. Kicherer. It was the home of three ministers prior to 1822, the year in which the Rev. Andrew Murray, from Aberdeenshire, Scotland etc
Visit the valley of desolation
The valley of desolation is a short 14 km drive from Graaff Reinet. Any visitor to the Camdeboo National Park will be surprised to discover the diversity of fauna and flora. There are over 220 recorded species of birdlife, 336 plants and 43 mammals. Catch a glimpse of the endangered Cape Mountain Zebra, plenty of Kudu, Buffalo, the majestic Black Eagle and the Kori Bustard, the heaviest flying bird in the world.
Visit the Obesa Nursery
This is one of the biggest privately owned Cacti and Succulent nurseries in the world today. Obesa nursery, situated in Graaf Reniet has established itself on 10 hectares of land.
Maria's Superior Coffees
Stop for a great cup of coffee at Maria’s Roastery and Coffee Shop, located at Our Yard, a craft retail hub where you can find anything from great food and art, to handcrafted goods and a delicatessen.
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