About Us
Antoinette welcomes you to her Gem in the Karoo!
With a variety of offerings to choose from, we’re sure you’ll be happy staying with us. Fully equipped self catering units in the center of Graaff-Reinet. Walking distance to schools, historical sites and museums. Secure off-street parking, behind remote gates. Owner stays on the Property and there is a Beauty salon on the premises.
Escape to The GEM of The Karoo
The Oldest town in the Eastern Cape
The oldest town in the Eastern Cape, the fourth oldest in South Africa and certainly one of the most atmospheric, Graaff-Reinet lies enclosed by a bend in the Sundays River, overshadowed by the rocky Sneeuberg Mountain within the Camdeboo National Park.
With over 200 buildings claimed as National Monuments and an entire street restored, including its slave cottages, Graaff-Reinet has retained much of the character of a typical 19th century town and is well worth a visit because of it. Known as the ‘Gem of the Karoo’, Graaff-Reinet was founded in 1786 by the governor Cornelius Jacob van de Graaff, whose wife’s name was Cornelia Reinet. Her namesake – Reinet House – was originally built as a parsonage and is now a museum with one of the largest living grape vines in the world in its garden. This still bears fruit today.
The Valley of Desolation
often called ‘The Cathedral of the Mountains’ – is a national monument and the premier tourist attraction in the Camdeboo National Park.
Experience the breathtaking view of piled dolerite columns against the backdrop of the plains of the Great Karoo. Absorb yourself in the timeless sense of wonder at a landscape said to be the product of volcanic and erosive forces of nature over a period of 100 million years.
Enjoy the unique view of the historic town of Graaff-Reinet, set like a jewel within a horseshoe bend of the Sundays River. Nature lovers will appreciate the Karoo mountain flora and fauna and the opportunity to view black eagles at close range.
The Valley of Desolation rock formations consist of dolerites which have formed jointed pillars. Erosion of the softer sedimentary beds has left dolerite pillars which rise to heights of 90 to 120 metres.
Testimonials
