Aug 30, 2020 | Articles
Questions to Ask Before Booking Your Stay at a Guest House in Graaff-Reinet
As one of the oldest towns in South Africa, Graaff-Reinet offers an endless list of places to visit, things to do, and sights to see. The town is popular amongst tourists who, whether for business stay-overs or leisure holidays, stop by to explore all of the interesting curiosities and places of interest. Nearby sites such as the Camdeboo National Park, as well as restaurants, historical buildings, museums, and shops are all draws for South Africans and international travellers alike who have heard of this Gem of the Karoo and its enchantment. While there are plenty of places to stay in Graaff-Reinet, a guest house offers more than just a bed to sleep. Below, we take a look at questions to ask yourself before you make your guest house booking.
Does It Meet My Needs?
Booking a stay at a guest house in Graaff-Reinet without doing proper research is not recommended. You need to know that your needs will be met. Consider, for example, how many beds you would need, and whether or not you would require an en-suite bathroom with a shower for easy accessibility. Other options like a play area for kids or a pet-friendly room are also important to think about. Some facilities and amenities to keep in mind include:
- Air conditioning (especially during summer).
- DStv-enabled televisions.
- A private entrance.
- Free WiFi.
Is It Big Enough?
Trying to cram too many people into a single room is something guests tend to do when they want to save money, but this often makes for an unpleasant stay. If you really want a relaxing, worthwhile holiday, ensure to book a stay at a guest house in Graaff-Reinet that offers spacious accommodation at a reasonable rate.
Is It Self-Catering?
Because the town of Graaff-Reinet offers so many world-class restaurants and spots for grabbing a bite, you will likely want to spend most days dining out and trying some of that famous Karoo lamb. For days you wish to stay in, however, it might be cost-effective to have a braai or make your own meals, such as a light breakfast or brunch. A self-catering guest house will offer you all the necessary facilities to ensure you can make meals at your leisure.
How Far Away Are Local Tourist Hotspots?
Right in the heart of Graaff-Reinet is where you want to be. This means you can travel around town on foot, exploring all the wonders up close and in person. Booking a stay too far away from the centre of town puts you at a disadvantage because it means you will need to drive (or use public transport) to get anywhere, which steals from the thrill of discovering all the area has to offer.
Does It Look Neat and Clean?
While you may be seeking the cheapest possible accommodation, keep in mind that it may come at a price. Shabby accommodation that does not seem clean or well taken care of should be avoided. It is best to spend a little more, safe in the knowledge that you are living in an environment that meets standard health and safety requirements.
For a luxury, self-catering guest house only a stone’s throw away from all the splendour Graaff-Reinet has to offer, be sure to book your stay with us at KarooRus.
Aug 30, 2020 | Articles
Experience the Wonders of South African History with a Stay at Our Graaff-Reinet Accommodation
Walk the quiet streets of the historical town of Graaff-Reinet, and you might just feel as though you have been transported a couple of centuries back in time. That’s because the town is one of the oldest currently in South Africa, having been established in 1786. Lining the streets of the town are well-preserved historical homes and buildings such as churches and museums. That’s not all this Gem of the Karoo (as it is fondly called) has to offer, however, as there is plenty more to do than just sight-see. Guests who join us for a stay at our luxury Graaff-Reinet accommodation are never bored, and below we explore why.
- Reinet House Museum
If you are interested in the history behind the town of Graaff-Reinet, then you simply cannot miss out on a visit to the famous Reinet House Museum. There are other museums in the town too, but Reinet House will capture the interest of anyone who enjoys period décor and curiosities. The museum, not far from our accommodation, KarooRus, is home to a weird and wonderful array of furnishings, doll collections, kitchen utensils, haberdashery, clothing, and even blacksmith displays.
- The Camdeboo National Park
The Camdeboo National Park boasts an astounding ecosystem of 43 mammal species, 249 bird species, and 336 plant species. This park surrounds the town of Graaff-Reinet and is not a far drive from our accommodation. There is plenty to do in the park for those who cannot get enough of the great outdoors. Fun activities include:
- Visiting picnic spots and braai facilities.
- 4×4 off-road trails.
- Birdwatching.
- Fishing.
- Game drives.
- Scenic hiking and walking trails.
Those seeking a little culture while visiting Graaff-Reinet will enjoy the Jan Rupert Centre which is located less than a minute’s drive from our accommodation in Middle Street. The Neo-Gothic building was first used as a site of worship for a Sotho tribe called the Mantatees. It is currently used as an art centre and showcases a number of exhibitions by prominent South African artists.
- The Owl House of Nieu-Bethesda
For those looking to explore a little farther from our accommodation, a day trip to the Helen Martins Owl House is a wonder to behold. Helen Martins is today recognised as a world-famous artist, who utilised any materials and articles she could find to create a world of fantasy inside and outside of her home. Her multi-coloured residence is showered with bright glass and concrete creations. Designed as an escape from her real-life surroundings and failing health, the Owl House is a strong testament to the beauty humans can create from ugliness.
- The Ganora Fossil & Artifact Museum
While you’re in Nieu-Bethesda, be sure to take a trip to the Ganora Fossil & Artifact Museum, boasting fossils estimated to be around 280 million years old. From a fossil workshop to a fun fossil walk, you will learn all about prehistoric animal fossils and a little of what life was like before dinosaurs roamed the earth.
For a marvellous stay at our self-catering Graaff-Reinet accommodation, KarooRus is sure to impress you. Book a few nights of rest and relaxation with us, and explore a whole new world of history and thrilling discoveries.
