Planning a Romantic Getaway to Graaff-Reinet
Discover romance in the heart of the Karoo. Among Karoo hotels, Drostdy Hotel stands apart with luxury suites, courtyard pools, spa rituals, fine dining, and strolls through historic Graaff-Reinet, made for couples seeking a timeless escape. There is a certain romance to the Karoo that is hard to pin down. Perhaps it’s the stillness of the wide landscapes, where your thoughts can once again come into focus, the vast, uninterrupted skyline or the slow rhythm of life in Graaff-Reinet. Whatever this ancient landscape’s secret, couples who come here find space to reconnect, and at the heart of it all lies the Drostdy Hotel, a heritage building reimagined for times worth celebrating, where history, luxury, and intimacy meet. If you’re looking for a romantic getaway to share with your other half – be your relationship new or established – keep reading! Rooms Made for Romance At Drostdy Hotel, our rooms are as much a part of the experience as the landscapes beyond. As you’ll know, where you rest your head really does impact the tone for the rest of your stay; down to the smallest detail! Our Suites, in particular, are perfect for a romantic escape. Generously sized at 46m², they offer quiet corners to linger in: A writing desk, a cosy lounge, and a king-size bed dressed in soft cotton linen. Bathrooms feature both bath and shower, with underfloor heating and heated towel rails for cooler Karoo evenings. Step outside, and the pace slows even further. Courtyards dotted with turquoise pools and loungers provide a private haven, a place to read side by side, sip something cold, or simply enjoy the hush of an afternoon. Whether you choose a Suite or one of the characterful Executive or Standard Rooms, every detail has been considered to make your stay both comfortable and memorable, with a touch of that old-world feeling that inspires the romantic in all of us. As the finishing touch to your love-filled escape, we offer romantic turn-downs for couples – the perfect ending to a perfect day. A Spa Experience for Two Romance often begins in the small rituals of care, and our Africology Spa has been designed with this in mind. You may have ‘His’ and ‘Hers’ sinks at home, but how often do we really take the time to enjoy the ritual of self-care together with our partner? Our spa uses natural, eco-friendly products inspired by African heritage, and the atmosphere is intimate and soothing. Couples can book side-by-side therapies, enjoying the calm of the Himalayan Salt Sauna or unwind together on the garden terrace between sessions. For something truly special, we’re currently promoting the Karoo Revival treatment, a special that offers 90 minutes of relaxation, including a back exfoliation, massage, and classic Africology facial. Afterwards, take time to linger, refreshments from the restaurant can be served on the terrace, extending your spa time into an afternoon of indulgence. Dining at De Camdeboo Restaurant Food has its own way of bringing people together, and at De Camdeboo Restaurant, the flavours of the Karoo are served with warmth and style. Lunches spill out onto the lawns from the terrace, where leafy pergolas and umbrellas cast shade and the air hums with the beginning of spring. Evenings bring a shift in mood: Indoors, soft lighting and a refined yet relaxed atmosphere set the stage for a memorable dinner. Wine-lovers will definitely find plenty to enjoy! Our hotel’s collection, curated with care and featuring gems from the Rupert family’s estates, can be sampled during a wine tasting in the Wijnkamer. It’s the perfect way to start an evening together, swirling and sipping your way through some of South Africa’s celebrated wine regions. Strolling Through Graaff-Reinet Drostdy Hotel’s location makes it easy to step out hand-in-hand and explore. Graaff-Reinet is one of South Africa’s most walkable towns, its streets lined with museums, art galleries, delis, and antique shops. Wander between them at an unhurried pace, pausing for coffee or discovering something unexpected. For a playful twist, try a tasting at Afrikanis Rum, a uniquely local experience that adds a touch of fun to your day. When the mood calls for nature, the Valley of Desolation is a short drive away. Watching the sun drop behind its towering dolerite cliffs, the plains stretching endlessly beyond, is a moment made for two. Add to the magic by requesting a picnic basket be made up for you at reception, adding your own choice of wine! And, after dark, the Karoo sky becomes an endless display of scattered stars, a reminder of just how far you’ve escaped from the ordinary. Why not take a blanket out onto your balcony and savour the view together? Couples’ Retreat Special To make the most of your stay, the hotel’s Couples’ Retreat Package weaves together the best of Drostdy Hotel’s romantic offerings. This package includes: A 60-minute Couples Hot Stone Massage at Africology Spa A wine tasting experience A romantic turndown service Bed and breakfast in one of the luxury rooms It’s the ideal way to celebrate an anniversary, a honeymoon, or simply the luxury of time together. Why Drostdy Hotel Stands Apart Among Karoo Hotels Blending heritage with contemporary comfort Elegant Cape Dutch architecture paired with modern interiors Courtyards with shimmering private pools and loungers De Camdeboo Restaurant serving Karoo-inspired cuisine Africology Spa offering eco-friendly treatments and a Himalayan Salt Sauna Central location in Graaff-Reinet, ideal for exploring on foot Easy access to the Valley of Desolation and the surrounding Karoo landscapes Book Your Romantic Escape Romance in the Karoo is not complicated. It’s in the long walks, the unhurried meals, the pools tucked into whitewashed courtyards, and the comfort of a beautiful room at the end of the day. If you’ve been searching for a romantic getaway that feels both luxurious and rooted in place, this is it. Among Karoo hotels, Drostdy Hotel is ready to welcome you to Graaff-Reinet, a town where time slows, and romance lingers! Explore our accommodation options and make your
A Journey Through Time: The History Behind The Drostdy Hotel
Tucked away in the heart of the Karoo, Graaff-Reinet offers more than just scenic charm and open skies; it offers stories in a countryside where memories are like currency. At the centre of Graaff-Reinet’s historic quarter stands the Drostdy Hotel, a luxury Karoo retreat that is as much a time capsule as it is a sanctuary for your Karoo holiday! With its rich past and considered modern comforts, our hotel invites guests to explore the deeper narrative of our town through the lens of a cosy getaway. Here, the history of Graaff-Reinet and the history of the Drostdy are inseparable, each shaping and reflecting the other over more than two centuries. During your stay, we invite you to walk in the footsteps of those who came before us, while enjoying the best of the present with our Heritage & Horizons Package – a thoughtfully curated escape designed to honour the history and natural beauty of Graaff-Reinet. Exploring Our Town’s Many Layers To fully appreciate Graaff-Reinet’s history, one must step beyond the hotel’s elegant walls into the streets of South Africa’s fourth-oldest town, home to more than 200 heritage sites. A morning stroll reveals beautifully preserved Cape Dutch and Victorian architecture, with Reinet House (1812) offering insight into early colonial life. Yet, our town’s roots run far deeper than the 1700s. Long before European settlers arrived, the region was home to the Khoisan people, South Africa’s First Peoples. Their traditions, beliefs, and artistry are woven into the land itself, visible in ancient rock paintings and echoed in oral histories. A visit to the Bushman Heritage Museum in nearby Nieu Bethesda offers a moving introduction to the |Xam storytellers who tell the histories and legends of their people with passion and pride. Graaff-Reinet also occupies a proud place in our country’s political history. It is the birthplace of Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe, founder of the Pan Africanist Congress and a key figure in the anti-apartheid struggle. His life and work serve as a reminder that history is not just about buildings and dates, but mostly about the people whose courage shapes our present-day lives. WHAT’S IN A NAME? Graaff-Reinet, founded in 1786, takes its name from Cornelis Jacob van de Graaff, then Governor of the Cape Colony, and his wife, Cornelia Reinet. The combination honoured both the colonial administrator and his spouse, reflecting a common practice of the era to link place names with prominent figures. Art, Cuisine & Culture Graaff-Reinet may be steeped in history, but it is also alive with creativity. The Drostdy Hotel’s own Imibala Gallery showcases thought-provoking works by local artists, while galleries across town draw inspiration from the Karoo’s textured landscapes and stories. No visit would be complete without a taste of the region’s culinary heritage. At our hotel’s De Camdeboo Restaurant, guests can savour traditional Karoo flavours like slow-cooked lamb, braised springbok shanks, root vegetables, and baked treats fresh from the oven. These tried and true recipes embody the region’s ethos surrounding food: Simple, honest and deeply nourishing. (In our case, we like to add, ‘Prepared with love.’) Behind The Drostdy Hotel Zooming into our beautiful hotel’s own story, it begins more than 200 years ago in 1804, when the original Drostdy building, designed by renowned architect Louis Thibault, was built as the official residence of the town’s local magistrate. It stood at the heart of Graaff-Reinet, already an important frontier settlement of the Cape Colony. Between 1819 and 1847, the Drostdy served as the magistrate’s residence. Within its walls, notable figures like Lord Charles Somerset and Sir Rufane Donkin discussed matters and made decisions that rippled across the countryside. As Graaff-Reinet expanded with churches, schools, and market squares, the Drostdy evolved alongside it, mirroring the town’s shifting fortunes. In 1878, the building took on a new role as Kromm’s Drostdy Hotel, welcoming travellers who arrived by ox-wagon, carriage, and, later, railway. Around the turn of the century, it embraced an architectural transformation, adopting the elegant Victorian façade visitors see today. Through droughts, celebrations, and times of change, the hotel remained a fixture in the life of the Graaff-Reinet community; a gathering place where locals and visitors shared news, meals and moments of frivolity. By 1975, our hotel’s historical significance was formally recognised when Historical Homes of South Africa undertook a careful restoration of the building, safeguarding both its beauty and its place in Graaff-Reinet’s history. In 2012, a new chapter began under the ownership of the South African College for Tourism (SACT), whose learnership programme empowers young women from rural communities with world-class hospitality training. That brings us to today, where the Drostdy Hotel stands as a beacon of history, opportunity, and timeless Karoo charm, on top of its 5-star luxury status. What You Can Expect From The Heritage & Horizons Package The Drostdy Hotel’s Heritage & Horizons Package offers guests a way to connect with both our hotel and Graaff-Reinet’s history, all while enjoying the comfort of a luxury stay. It includes: Entrance for 2 into Graaff-Reinet’s historic museum Access to the Valley of Desolation in Camdeboo National Park A specially curated picnic box and a bottle of wine Wine tasting for 2 in the Wjinkamer Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature-lover, or simply someone seeking serene surroundings, this experience blends culture, cuisine, and the Karoo’s vast natural beauty into an unforgettable journey. Stay With Us The Drostdy Hotel is more than luxury Karoo accommodation, it is a living link between past and present; a place where the story of Graaff-Reinet continues to unfold. In this season of renewal, allow its walls, walkways, and warm hospitality to carry you through time. To book the Heritage & Horizons Package, contact our reception desk at reservations@drostdy.co.za or fill out our online enquiry form.
Business Meets Leisure: Planning The Perfect Workcation In Graaff-Reinet
For many professionals, the freedom to work from anywhere presents an opportunity to swap home offices and urban apartments for more inspiring and tranquil surroundings. Remote work, in some way, shape or form, has become the norm rather than the exception, and with it, a new kind of travel has emerged: The workcation. This hybrid getaway blends the best of both worlds. On workcation, the idea is to work productively and enjoy the perks of being on holiday. With its historic atmosphere and surrounding open landscapes, Graaff-Reinet is fast becoming a popular choice for remote workers looking to recharge while staying connected. As more people embrace the possibilities of remote working in South Africa, our charming Karoo town offers a refreshing alternative to city-based routines. At the centre of it all is the Drostdy Hotel, a refined yet relaxed retreat that offers everything you need for an unforgettable workcation. Why Work From Graaff-Reinet? Graaff-Reinet is the perfect antidote to the hustle and noise of city life. With its beautifully preserved Cape Dutch architecture, charming town centre with eateries and shops, and friendly, unhurried pace, it offers a rare kind of stillness that fuels focus and creativity. When our work keeps us deskbound, it’s important to factor some movement into our days. Luckily, Graaff-Reinet also offers safe and easy access to the great outdoors, like Camdeboo National Park, where you might like to go for a walk after a morning of meetings or deep work. Alternatively, you might prefer strolling down jacaranda-lined streets (our town is famous for these beauties) or watching the sun set over the Valley of Desolation in the late afternoon. For those looking to explore more of the Karoo, Graaff-Reinet is close enough to small surrounding towns like Jansenville, Adendorp, Cradock and Aberdeen, to name but a few, to make day trips convenient while still enjoying the luxury of our hotel. No matter your preference, we’re certain you’ll find an inspired work-leisure balance that feels as good as it does sustainable. Note: Graaff-Reinet is easily accessible by road and is a scenic five hour drive from Cape Town or a two-and-a-half hour drive from Gqeberha. Regional flights into nearby airports like George or Gqeberha, followed by a rental car drive, make arrival simple and scenic for those travelling from further afield. You could also opt to charter a flight from the Cape Winelands directly to Graaff-Reinet. Discover more about this exclusive option here. Graaff-Reinet is: 141 km from Cradock 263 km from Gqeberha 380 km from East London 434 km from Bloemfontein 665 km from Cape Town 821 km from Johannesburg 969 km from Durban Why Work From Drostdy Hotel? You’ll find the Drostdy Hotel in the historic heart of town, where we strive to blend five-star luxury with authentic Karoo character. There’s something about an old-world feel (think dark wood furniture, plush finishes and roaring fires) that make one want to settle in and tick some tasks off the list! Refreshments are always available in the form of coffee, wonderful food from De Camdeboo Restaurant or room service, and later, the bar area and library become cosy spaces from which to order a glass of red while wrapping up the last of the day’s emails. Even better: Why not finish the day with a wine tasting at De Camdeboo Wijnkamer? We have everything you need, from fast and reliable Wi-Fi – powerful enough for interruption-free Zoom calls and large file transfers – to in-room facilities, like writing desks and coffee stations, that can make your suite double as the ideal workspace. When it’s time for a break, guests can unwind at the Africology Spa or get some movement in at our on-site gym. Quiet nooks around the property, like the terrace or shaded courtyards (weather dependent), are ideal when you need a small change of location to keep motivation high! You also won’t have to worry about laundry or cooking for the duration of your stay, and we don’t need to tell you that it’s the small spoils that count for the most when it comes to a feasible work-life balance. Note: With regard to conferencing, our hotel features a well-appointed board room equipped with audiovisual capabilities. We also have various corporate event venues that are ideal for small to medium-sized business gatherings, strategy sessions, executive retreats and launches. You could also use our hotel for more informal gatherings, like braais, birthday get-togethers, buffets or special wine events. Browse our Conferencing & Meeting Brochure here. Extend Your Stay With Us Once deadlines have been met, why not linger a little longer? Extend your weekday workcation into a weekend retreat. Nearby gems like Nieu-Bethesda with its famous Owl House, or the many attractions of Graaff-Reinet, offer plenty of entertainment for the curious traveller! Ask the Drostdy Hotel team about long-stay packages or tailored itineraries by emailing reservations@drostdy.co.za – they’ll gladly help you turn your productive escape into a well-rounded getaway. Alternatively, browse our beautiful stay options and get those dates locked in via our online booking platform. They say a change is as good as a holiday, but with workcations, there’s no reason you can’t have both!
Tranquility & Wildlife: A Classic Karoo Package
The Karoo is calling you… Be among the first to book the brand new Classic Karoo Package, an exclusive collaboration where guests are invited to experience the best of our country’s timeless heartland – from the old-world elegance of Drostdy Hotel in Graaff-Reinet to the untamed wilderness of Samara Karoo Reserve in the Great Karoo. Whether you’re drawn in by history, captivated by wildlife, or are simply seeking serenity, this offering promises an array of enriching experiences to fill your cup. Let’s take a closer look at the details together. What does this package entail? By purchasing this package, you will save 20% on 5 nights’ accommodation in the Karoo; 2 nights at Drostdy Hotel and 3 nights at Samara Karoo Reserve. Samara Karoo Reserve: 3 nights’ accommodation in a Karoo Suite at Karoo Lodge Private Samara signature wilderness picnic On-foot cheetah tracking Spekboom planting experience Drostdy Hotel: 2 nights’ accommodation in an Executive Room or higher room category Dinner for 2 on one of the evenings at De Camdeboo Restaurant Wine tasting for 2 at De Camdeboo Wijnkamer Couples’ massage at Africology Spa, plus use of the Himalayan Salt Sauna Note: South African Resident Rates are available. A road transfer between the two properties can also be arranged at an additional fee. (The driving time is approximately 45 minutes.) T’s and C’s apply. Unveiling Graaff-Reinet: The Jewel of the Karoo Graaff-Reinet is South Africa’s fourth-oldest town and is characterised by picturesque streets and warm-hearted locals. Dating back to 1804, Drostdy Hotel stands as a testament to Graaff-Reinet’s rich history and offers 48 impeccably furnished rooms, each a blend of comfort and classic elegance. Make the most of your stay by enjoying our region’s famous hearty cuisine at De Camdeboo Restaurant or by booking a rejuvenating treatment at the Africology Spa. You’ll also find that our hotel is perfectly located for exploring Graaff-Reinet on foot. Visit the town’s myriad museums, quaint shops, charming eateries, art galleries and historical sites – each offering a glimpse into the hospitality and heritage of the Karoo. Into the Wilderness: Samara Karoo Reserve After two nights of indulgence at Drostdy Hotel, your journey continues into the rugged beauty of the hinterland at Samara Karoo Reserve, a mere 45-minute drive away. Here you will experience the open country of the Karoo stretching towards the horizon in uninterrupted plains broken up by rocky outcrops and ancient camel thorn trees. Samara Karoo Reserve is not just a destination; it’s a conservation success story with incredible heart. Established in 1997, Samara has led efforts to reintroduce wildlife to this semi-arid but incredibly diverse landscape. Today, over 60 mammal species reside on the reserve, including lions, cheetahs, elephants and giraffes. Just imagine – an effort that has reintroduced the Big Five to the Karoo! At Samara your days will be filled with exhilarating game drives, guided bush walks and immersive conservation activities like spekboom-planting. The overall experience offers guests a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between man and nature. Book Your Journey Today Whether you seek a romantic getaway, a family adventure or a solo retreat, the Classic Karoo Package promises an unforgettable experience designed to showcase the very best of what our region has to offer. From the quaint streets of Graaff-Reinet and the historic atmosphere of our ‘Grande Dame’, to the vast open spaces of the veld and the extraordinary wildlife experiences cultivated by Samara Karoo Reserve, we hope you’ll agree that this package is unique among hospitality offerings in South Africa. To learn more, or to book your escape, simply email our friendly team at reservations@drostdy.co.za. Alternatively, fill out our online enquiry form and get ready for an authentic, Karoo-inspired vacation to cherish forever. We can’t wait to share in this experience with you!