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!