Why Visit the Karoo? Things to Do and See in Graaff-Reinet
How many times have you travelled from Cape Town, Mossel Bay or Plettenberg Bay and back again to Gauteng in such a rush to get home that you only used all the main routes? Most people travel along the N1 highway from Gauteng to Cape Town and back, and they miss out on the best-kept secrets in the South African tourist destination treasure chest.
Next time you travel to or from the coast back home, make use of the affordable bed-and-breakfast accommodation available in Graaff-Reinet at KarooRus and spend some time exploring the surrounds. You might even decide to stay for a week, because there are so many things to do and see in and around Graaff-Reinet. A day is not enough to cover all the bases. Below are some of the activities to be enjoyed, things to experience, and places to see that will make you wonder why you have not booked your bed-and-breakfast accommodation in Graaff-Reinet already.
Visit the historical places in Graaff-Reinet, such as the Old Residency Museum, the Military Museum, the Reinet House, and the Urquhart House on a historical walk tour through the town. You may also want to stop at the Black Acorn Grapevine, which was originally planted in 1870 and is still alive today. It can be seen at the Reinet House.
Visit the Old Library Museum to learn more about the prehistoric part of the earth’s history and brush up on your fine arts appreciation at the Hester Rupert Art Museum. Fancy photos of beautiful and majestic churches? You are in luck, for Graaff-Reinet has no shortage of beautiful buildings, including the Dutch Reformed Church, which is called the “large church”. Once you have seen it, you will know why.
From art to plants. Do not forget to drop by the Obesa Nursery known for their large collection of succulents, which has been noted as the biggest collection of cacti in the world. And what better way to appreciate this than through a labyrinth of succulents?
Graaff-Reinet is surrounded by the Camdeboo National Park and a visit to the Park is recommended, especially to experience an awe-inspiring view from the top of the very famous Valley of Desolation. You can even picnic in the park while you are able to spot several animals, fortunately none of which will have you for breakfast or lunch!
Why not be adventurous? Go on a 4×4 trip in the mountain or slow right down to walking pace with a hike along one of the trails in the Park. If you have a Wild Card, which you can get from the South African National Parks, you have free entrance to the Camdeboo.
You can also book a light aircraft flight and see the expanse of the Karoo from above and then sit back and relax at the John Rupert Theatre to watch live shows or interesting films. You can venture by car to the nearby town of Nieu Bethesda to visit the famous Owl House or simply browse the gift and antique stores and enjoy scrumptious Karoo lamb at one of the many restaurants.
Do not let it stay a dream. Book your bed-and-breakfast accommodation at KarooRus and explore the amazing Graaff-Reinet region.