Art & Culture in Graaff-Reinet: Museums & Galleries
Whether or not you’re a fan of History as a subject, there’s no denying its presence in Graaff-Reinet, one of South Africa’s oldest towns. Here, history seems to hum beneath the surface in the form of ancient oaks, Cape Dutch buildings and the presence of no less than 220 national heritage sites! For guests of The Drostdy Hotel, exploring Graaff-Reinet’s museums and galleries is a way to step behind our town’s handsome façade and see it as a part of the Karoo’s wider story. Remember, these are not sterile display rooms of glass and labels, but living spaces that tell very human stories. From fossils to fine art, these are our favourite museums and galleries for you to explore, all within walking distance of The Drostdy Hotel, in Graaff-Reinet! The Graaff-Reinet Museum Complex Just a short stroll (400m) from the hotel lies a collection of five elegant heritage buildings collectively known as the Graaff-Reinet Museum Complex. Together, they hold centuries of memory; each room, gable, and creaking floorboard revealing a different facet of our town’s past. At the centre of it all is Reinet House, once the Dutch Reformed parsonage and home to generations of the Murray family. It’s a graceful Cape H-plan building, its whitewashed walls a testament to both endurance and reinvention. Here, you’ll find a treasure chest of period furniture, a withond distillery, a beautifully restored mill house with a working water wheel, and the Laubscher doll collection, a charming nod to the domestic artistry of the time. Don’t miss the ancient grapevine planted in 1870 – still growing in the courtyard! Across the road, Urquhart House opens a window into 19th-century life, from polished peach-pit floors to the everyday objects of the early settlers. Funny how ordinary objects become so significant and fascinating when displayed in this way… Meanwhile, the Old Library houses fascinating exhibitions that stretch far beyond local history, from the Mangaliso Robert Sobukwe Collection and Townley Johnson’s rock art displays to rotating exhibitions exploring themes like slavery, restitution, and renewable energy. Finally, the Military History Museum, built in the style of an old stable, captures Graaff-Reinet’s military past through the Anglo-Boer War and both World Wars. These exhibits remind visitors that even remote Karoo towns were not untouched by the larger issues of history. The Old Residency building is currently closed for restoration work. Together, these five buildings form one of the most compelling Graaff-Reinet museums collections, and a rare chance to experience South African history in a place where the architecture is part of the exhibit. Image Credit: www.graaffreinetmuseums.co.za Karoo Origins Fossil Centre From history to prehistory… Just outside of our hotel’s own historic complex lies Karoo Origins: The Fossil Centre, a place that stretches your imagination back hundreds of millions of years, and a recent addition to our town’s many attractions. Here, the world-famous Rubidge Fossil Collection takes centre stage, comprising over 850 fossil skulls, some belonging to species that predate the dinosaurs. The story told here is that the Karoo once teemed with life long before humans walked the earth, and it was this ancient landscape that witnessed the greatest extinction event of all time, 252 million years ago. The immersive diorama of life-sized prehistoric creatures and compelling video footage on the Permian extinction make this one of the most engaging Graaff-Reinet museums for both adults and children. You can even watch technicians carefully exposing fossils from rock, revealing the meticulous process behind every discovery. (Who else dreamed of being an archaeologist like Indiana Jones when they were small?) After exploring deep time, why not pause at the on-site café for coffee, wine, or a light lunch in their shaded courtyard? Spring is certainly the season for it. Guests booking our Heritage & Horizons Package enjoy complimentary entry to Karoo Origins, the perfect addition to a springtime stay. Imibala Gallery Back at The Drostdy Hotel, art finds a more contemporary expression in the Imibala Gallery, our on-site exhibition space. Imibala means “colours,” which perfectly captures the spirit of what we’re trying to create here: A vibrant, inclusive gallery that is alive with the talent of local South African artists. Exhibitions change regularly, offering guests a chance to encounter everything from fine art and sculpture to photography and mixed media pieces. More than just a gallery, Imibala is a platform for empowerment. It reflects our partnership with the Imibala Trust, which supports educational and social development initiatives for children in the region. Every artwork purchased here ripples outward, supporting both artist and community. Hester Rupert Art Museum A few steps along Church Street stands one of Graaff-Reinet’s most iconic cultural landmarks: The Hester Rupert Art Museum; something between a museum and a gallery. Housed in what was once a Dutch Reformed Mission Church built in 1821, this small, whitewashed building was saved from demolition in the 1960s thanks to the vision of Dr Anton Rupert, a son of Graaff-Reinet. Today, it’s home to a remarkable collection of 20th-century South African art: Over a hundred works donated by leading artists of the time in response to Rupert’s call to preserve the building. Works range from lyrical landscapes to those that engage with powerful social commentary. It’s a small collection, but it carries immense cultural weight; a legacy that we all get to enjoy together. Stay With Us At The Drostdy Hotel, we believe that exploring Graaff-Reinet’s art and culture is a way of deepening your stay and giving context to our hotel’s place in this town’s history. After a morning spent wandering through Reinet House or admiring local works at Imibala, return to the cool quiet of your suite, or linger over a glass of wine in our courtyard as the church bells echo across town. Graaff-Reinet has always been a place of preservation and imagination, and at The Drostdy, you’re perfectly placed to experience both. To stay with us or book the Heritage & Horizons Package, contact our reception desk at reservations@drostdy.co.za or fill out our online enquiry form.
Things To Do In Graaff-Reinet In Winter
Winter wanderings await in our quaint Karoo town… The Karoo settles into something slower in winter. The light changes; not golden, but clean and pale, smoke curls from chimneys in the mornings and evenings and window panes frost over in the night. It’s the kind of season that makes you want to linger longer in museums, talk to strangers in shops, and order something warm at every stop. Graaff-Reinet, cradled by the horseshoe bend of the Sundays River and watched over by stone spires and plains, lends itself to this slower winter pace. Here are a few things to do in Graaff-Reinet in winter, when the days are short and the evenings call for something slow-cooked! Settling In There’s a kind of quiet luxury in staying put, and winter gives you permission to do just that. At the Drostdy Hotel, you don’t have to chase the day – everything you need is already here. Sink into the warmth of a treatment at the Africology Spa, browse our shelves and walls in the library or art gallery or taste wine in the Wijnkamer, where rare bottles wait to be uncorked without ceremony. Our rooms, many set in restored heritage homes, are thick-walled and comforting; especially after a slow dinner at De Camdeboo Restaurant, where the food draws deeply from generations of perfected home cooking. Think: Slow-cooked lamb, crusty bread and rich malva – all the good things for cold weather! Now that we’ve gotten you settled in, let’s see what else awaits in town. Things To Do In Graaff-Reinet in Winter Visit Reinet House The Graaff-Reinet Museum – or Reinet House – is a fantastic spot to visit in winter. The wooden floors creak underfoot, and the smell of polish and dust reminds you of just how long this building has been around. It once served as a Dutch Reformed Church parsonage, but is now home to a number of museum exhibits. Walk through slowly. Read the plaques and descriptions. Let the silence do most of the work. Visit The Valley Of Desolation In winter, the stark light makes these famous cliffs and crags look even more majestic and imposing. You might find yourself alone at the viewpoint, watching the dolerite columns reach skyward from the Camdeboo plains. Bring a thermos. Sit a while. The best time is late afternoon when the light comes in sideways and long-legged shadows fall across the valley. There’s nothing quite like the stillness of high ground in the off-season. Step Into Art While most art scenes contain an element of glamour, Graaff-Reinet’s art scene is set apart by its sincerity. The Hester Rupert Art Museum is housed in one of the oldest church buildings in South Africa! Inside, you’ll find works by South African artists that speak of place, politics, and the small things in between. Elsewhere in town, local galleries offer ceramics, photography and crocheted blankets made with love. Walk without a plan. You’ll find something. Eat From The Pantry Winter belongs to slow food. Roosterkoek still warm from the flames, lamb stew heavy with rosemary, thick-cut bread, red wine that warms you from the inside out. Stop at one of the delis in town to buy staples for your pantry – jams, pies, rusks and biltong. And back at Drostdy Hotel, the menu leans into what the season does best: Comfort, depth, and flavour without fuss. A seat by the fireplace doesn’t hurt either… Marvel At The Milky Way There are fewer sounds at night in Graaff-Reinet than in the city. This makes it easier to hear the owls, or nothing at all. If you head just beyond the last streetlight, the stars take over. No telescope needed – just a scarf, a heavy duty winter jacket and a stargazing app. (If you want to identify constellations.) You could drive a little way outside of town for less light pollution if you prefer. Otherwise, our hotel’s garden will do just fine. Visit Graaff-Reinet’s New Fossil Centre Did you know that the Karoo region holds the longest and most complete fossil timeline on Earth, stretching back to long before the dinosaurs? You can learn more about prehistoric times at our town’s newest museum, Karoo Origins: The Fossil Centre, just across the road from Drostdy Hotel. Inside you’ll discover everything from the world-famous Rubidge Fossil Collection to the ancestors of tortoises and lizards and the earliest mammal-like reptiles that eventually gave rise to us! This is an interactive and eye-opening experience for all ages, offering a rare chance to connect with the deep history of this extraordinary landscape. For even more on winter stays in Graaff-Reinet, read one of our other blog posts titled Your Winter Stay At The Drostdy Hotel. Image Credit: Instagram | karoooriginstfc Stay With Us This Winter The historic Drostdy Hotel is stitched into the fabric of Graaff-Reinet. Our rooms have thick walls that hold the warmth – with cosy finishes that make staying in the main event! Whether you’ve come for museums, meals, or the silence of open space, you’ll find the best things to do in Graaff-Reinet close to your front door when you stay with us. Browse our stay options here and secure your dates using our online booking platform. Alternatively, for a more personal touch, feel free to email our friendly reservations team at reservations@drostdy.co.za, who would be more than happy to assist you with the booking process! We look forward to welcoming you and yours to Graaff-Reinet this winter.
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!
Road Trip to Graaff-Reinet: Best Routes and Stops Along the Way
Nestled in the heart of the Karoo, the Drostdy Hotel in Graaff-Reinet is a luxury 5-star boutique hotel along South Africa’s well-travelled road trip routes. Located in the Eastern Cape, our historic town – South Africa’s fourth-oldest – lies conveniently along the N9, making it a perfect stopover for those journeying between Cape Town, Johannesburg, or the Garden Route. Having said that, Graaff-Reinet is more than a pit stop, it’s a destination in its own right, boasting charming Cape Dutch architecture, fascinating history and the breathtaking landscapes of Camdeboo National Park. Below we’ll explore some of the most popular road trips that incorporate Graaff-Reinet, and mention a few of our favourite stops along the way. Shall we begin? Popular South African Road Trips The Camdeboo Route The Camdeboo Route follows the N9 from George to Graaff-Reinet. It winds through picturesque towns like Uniondale, Willowmore and Aberdeen, offering travellers sweeping mountain passes, semi-arid landscapes and historical charm. On this drive you will get a true sense of the Karoo’s vastness. The landscape will change drastically between the lush Outeniqua Pass, just outside George, and the Plains of Camdeboo, as you approach Graaff-Reinet, giving you a true sense of our country’s natural diversity! Look Out For: Outeniqua Pass Viewpoints (Near George): Before leaving the coast, stop at one of the viewpoints along the Outeniqua Pass to take in breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and lush Garden Route forests. Smitswinkel Farm Stall (Oudtshoorn): A must-visit for fresh farm produce, homemade pies and local treats. This is the perfect place to stock up on padkos (road trip snacks) before heading deeper into the Karoo. Sophie’s Choice (Willowmore): This quirky antique shop and restaurant in Willowmore is a delightful stop for a meal and a treasure hunt. You never know what you might uncover! Route 62 Route 62 is fast becoming known as a choice South African wine route, stretching from Cape Town to Oudtshoorn before linking to Graaff-Reinet via the N9. It winds through charming towns like Worcester, Robertson, Montagu, Barrydale and Calitzdorp and offers expansive mountain passes, vineyard views and quirky roadside stops. If you have a little extra time on your hands, this route is a scenic alternative to the N1. Additionally, the beauty of this route is that after a relaxing few days with us in Graaff-Reinet, you are perfectly located to move on to other destinations like East London, Bloemfontein or Cape Town – depending on where you’re coming from. Look Out For: Peregrine Farm Stall (Near Grabouw): A legendary road trip stop, Peregrine Farm Stall offers freshly baked pies (with a renowned reputation), artisanal bread and local farm produce. It’s almost compulsory to pull in here. Ronnie’s Sex Shop (Barrydale): An iconic and offbeat Route 62 attraction, this roadside bar has become a cult favourite among travellers. Covered in memorabilia from visitors worldwide over the years, it’s a must-stop for a cold drink and a photo. Cango Caves (Near Oudtshoorn): One of South Africa’s most famous natural wonders, the Cango Caves are a vast network of limestone caverns nestled in the Swartberg Mountains, about 30 minutes from Oudtshoorn. The caves feature awe-inspiring stalactites, stalagmites and ancient rock formations, some over a million years old. There are various tour options available. Trans-Karoo: Make Us Your Stop Over On Long Drives Situated at the crossroads of major South African road trip routes, Graaff-Reinet is the perfect halfway mark for travellers journeying between Cape Town and Johannesburg (via the N1 and N9), Durban and the Garden Route (via the N3 and R56), or Bloemfontein and Gqeberha (previously known as Port Elizabeth) (via the N9 and N10). After hours on the road, this historic Karoo town offers a welcome retreat – not just a pit stop. A stay at Drostdy Hotel is the ultimate reward; a luxurious oasis where weary travellers can unwind in beautifully appointed rooms, book a Traveller’s Scalp & Leg Massage at the Africology Spa or indulge in Karoo cuisine at our cosy De Camdeboo Restaurant. During your stay, we invite you to explore the Valley of Desolation, stroll past Cape Dutch architecture, visit museums and galleries showcasing our town’s rich history or simply to bask in the Karoo’s clean air, open spaces and warm hospitality. Here are some useful distances to consider when planning your trip. 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 Interesting Attractions Near Graaff-Reinet During your stay with us, we highly recommend that you consider adding a few of these sites and activities to your must-see list. Karoo Origins: The Fossil Centre (Graaff-Reinet): This newly-opened, interactive museum showcases the renowned Rubidge Fossil Collection dating back 250 million years. Just across the street from us, it’s a must-visit for all ages, offering a fascinating glimpse into the ancient ancestors of dinosaurs, tortoises, and mammals! The Valley of Desolation (15 km): Towering dolerite rock formations and sweeping Karoo views make this Camdeboo National Park landmark unforgettable – especially at sunrise and sunset. Obesa Nursery (Graaff-Reinet): One of the largest private cacti collections in the Southern Hemisphere, perfect for plant lovers and photographers. Call ahead on 082 464 8202 to make sure they’re open. McNaughton’s Bookshop (Graaff-Reinet): A charming indie bookshop packed with second-hand treasures, rare finds and Karoo-inspired reads. The Owl House (60 km, Nieu-Bethesda): Helen Martins’ eccentric, sculpture-filled home is a hauntingly beautiful outsider-art masterpiece. Ganora Fossil & Bushman Paintings Tour (65 km, Nieu-Bethesda): Explore ancient fossils, Bushman rock art and Karoo farm life on this fascinating private tour. Stay With Us Planning a road trip can be lots of fun, especially when your destination is as beautiful and relaxing as the Drostdy Hotel. We look forward to being your respite at the end of the day and base for further Karoo explorations. Browse our beautiful suites here and get in touch with our reservations team at reservations@drostdy.co.za to book
How to Spend 48 Hours in Graaff-Reinet
If you’ve only got a limited amount of time in Graaff-Reinet, making every moment of your stay count is essential. With that, we don’t mean that you should rush from place to place, but rather, that a little planning goes a long way! Below you’ll find our suggested itinerary of things to do in Graaff-Reinet if you only have 48 hours to work with, from discovering the sites to enjoying plenty of down time, Karoo-style. Your 2-Day Plan: Things To Do In Graaff-Reinet Arrival Day 2PM: Check-In & Settle You’ve long been anticipating a relaxing getaway to the Karoo, where life’s gentle pace acts as a tonic to the city’s buzz, and the day has finally arrived. When driving into Graaff-Reinet, take note of the historic Dutch Reformed Church – you can’t miss it – the crowning jewel of the 220 listed heritage sites in our town. One of these sites is The Drostdy Hotel & Spa itself – your destination. The original structure was built in 1804, which means that you will be staying in a little piece of this region’s living history. After checking in, you will be shown your room, or, as we like to think of it, your home away from home for the next two nights. Here you will discover that your every need and comfort is catered to, from king-sized beds and coffee machines to television and complimentary WiFi. All of our stay options are luxurious, spacious and tastefully decorated with nods to our Cape Dutch heritage and Karoo setting. Settle into your room and make the space your own! Once settled, it’s time for refreshments. Walk over to our on-site restaurant, De Camdeboo, and sit down to a cup of coffee on the shady verandah overlooking the lawns. (If it’s winter, you might prefer to sit inside by the fire.) Afternoon: Sightseeing & Lunch Before dinner, we’d recommend some sightseeing to work up an appetite. Having recently arrived, your first day is a great time to orientate yourself in town and the best way to do this is on foot. Graaff-Reinet is infinitely walkable and there are plenty of sights to see, like those heritage sites we mentioned above! For ideas on places to visit, read our blog post titled 10 Unique Activities in Graaff-Reinet. When you start to feel peckish, there are plenty of coffee shops and delis to eat at. Two of our favourites include Hello You and Our Yard. Evening: Stoepsit & Dinner After a busy afternoon of sightseeing and exploring the quaint streets of Graaff-Reinet, it’s time to engage in the age-old Karoo tradition of stoep-sitting (sitting on your porch). Select a bottle of wine and enjoy a glass on the patio outside your bedroom as dusk falls. This is your chance to read, catch up with your travelling party or simply enjoy watching the world go by. When you’re ready, join us at De Camdeboo for a delicious Karoo-inspired feast with all the traditional favourites you’ve come to expect, like lamb and malva pudding, along with a few contemporary dishes – all cooked to perfection! The candle-lit ambience and hearty meal will set you up for a night of deep sleep in the quiet heart of the Karoo, ready to tackle the next morning feeling utterly rejuvenated. Second Day Morning: Sunrise With A View Early mornings might not usually be your scene, especially when on holiday, but if you only have 48 hours in Graaff-Reinet, you cannot let the opportunity to witness the sun rise over the Valley of Desolation pass you by. After drinking your morning coffee, head for Camdeboo National Park’s main gate, about 5 km away from the hotel. After entering, make your way to the highest hill (simply ask the guard for directions) and walk the short distance to the viewpoint. From here, the towering dolerite cliffs (120 m) are spectacular to behold as the sun illuminates them in vivid morning light. (It’s more than enough to justify the early wake-up!) Note: If you’d prefer to visit this viewing point at sunset (an equally beautiful option), feel free to ask our front office to request that a picnic basket be made up for you, filled with delicious pre-dinner snacks and your choice of wine from the wine shop. Mid-Morning: Explore Some More After a wholesome breakfast at the hotel, the day is yours! If you feel like seeing more of the Karoo, why not take a short trip (+- 50km) to the neighbouring town of Nieu-Bethesda for a few hours? Here you’ll find the famous Owl House and Kitching Fossil Exploration Centre. You can also take a donkey car ride and shop for Karoo wares at local shops. Alternatively, should you wish to stay in Graaff-Reinet, the rest of the morning could be spent trawling delis for items to fill up your pantry shelves at home. There are many homemade baked goods, preserves, rusks and even liqueurs to sample. Stop by the Afrikanis Rum Tasting Room to purchase a special spirit for your next big occasion. Afternoon: R&R It’s your final afternoon at The Drostdy Hotel & Spa and you’ll likely want to rest up before returning to the “real world” in the morning. We’d recommend doing this by booking a treatment at the Africology Spa, where our extensive menu, incorporating natural and eco-friendly products that originate on the African continent, is certain to have a treatment – grounded in the Karoo’s ancient healing spirit – that will leave you feeling pampered and refreshed. To get the most out of your spa treatment, arrive 30 minutes early for a complimentary session in our Himalayan Salt Sauna. Afterwards, you’ll likely want to return to your room for a nap. Evening: Art & Wine End your Karoo getaway with a wonderful night of art and wine! In the afternoon, we’d highly recommend spending some time at De Camdeboo Wjinkamer, our very own wine shop where we stock some of the finest South African wines. We
Celebrating 10 Years of SACT & Drostdy Hotel
Please join us in raising a toast to 10 years of collaboration between the SA College for Tourism (SACT) and the Drostdy Hotel, one of South Africa’s most beloved heritage hotels in the heart of Graaff-Reinet. It has been a decade since the Rupert Family Foundation donated the hotel to the college, and together they have become an inspiring model of five-star service, sustainable tourism, and warm Karoo hospitality. A Partnership Is Born “As we celebrate the past decade of the Drostdy Hotel,” says John Loftie-Eaton, director of the Drostdy Hotel, “we reflect on the remarkable history of this property spanning more than 200 years. In the last ten years, it has undergone a transformative journey, blending historic architecture with modern amenities while preserving the charm and character that made it legendary. We are honoured to collaborate with the SA College for Tourism to provide a platform where trainees can gain valuable practical experience, and we look forward to the fulfilling future of our partnership.” The SACT is a registered non-profit organisation founded in 2001 by Dr Anton Rupert with the mission to provide capacity building and economic empowerment for marginalised, unemployed, rural, and peri-urban youth (with a focus on women) in the hospitality industry. In 2012 the Rupert Family Foundation bought the Drostdy Hotel and reopened it two years later, after extensive and sensitive renovations. The hotel was donated to SACT, which provides hospitality training for young women from impoverished rural backgrounds. Reaping The Rewards “We give them wings,” says Mariette Ferreira, executive director of SACT. “Our programme focuses on recruiting women from local communities in or adjacent to the Peace Parks, also known as trans-frontier conservation areas (TFCAs) of southern Africa. By offering them a year of professional training at the college, we empower them with the skills needed to secure jobs in the tourism industry. This approach not only enhances economic development in these communities, but also encourages greater support for conservation initiatives.” “Unlike many skills training programmes based in urban centres, ours bridges the gap by reaching rural communities and helping to address the imbalance in access to opportunities. With a success rate of over 70%, we proudly place these women in jobs within their home regions. Each year, we train 85 youth, and to date, more than 1600 have successfully completed the programme. It’s incredibly rewarding to visit them in their homes or workplaces and witness the positive impact this initiative has had on their lives and communities.” Global Experience, Local Roots “We are empowering future professionals,” says Tebello Polisane, general manager of the Drostdy Hotel. “We are incredibly proud of the college and particularly since our young women graduates qualify with hands-on experience at a high-end hotel.” As a role model, Tebello says she hopes to inspire other women to realise their potential. “It is so inspiring to see how young women learn and succeed. Tourism is a live environment, and they are dealing with people as it happens. At the hotel, the team is everything and we don’t exist without our guests.” Ensuring guests enjoy the ultimate hospitality experience is one of the goals of Valor Hospitality, who run management and operations of the Drostdy Hotel. “We believe success comes from applying our global experience while honouring local roots”, says Tony Romer-Lee, Co-Founder and Managing Partner AMEA. “We come armed with proven tools acquired from decades of success transforming properties around the world. And we splash local colour by embedding ourselves in the communities in which we are working.” “We are developing talent who get hands-on training in a high-end hotel. By nurturing local talent we’re ensuring a thriving future for the tourism industry.” Beyond Hospitality In addition to hospitality training, SACT also offers tracker training through its Tracker Academy. Graduates can return to their communities as entrepreneurs with small tourism businesses, or work within or around conservation areas. “We are also thankful for the opportunity to contribute to the local economy,” says Romer-Lee, “and to witness the positive impact that the hotel’s revival has had on local tourism, job creation and skills development.” Through its art gallery, wine shop and restaurant, as well as weddings, functions and sporting events, the Drostdy Hotel has become a vital cultural and social hub of Graaff-Reinet. South Africa’s fourth oldest town has a rich history and architecture, with more than 200 heritage sites and monuments, and has become a proud destination for both local and international travellers. Arrive By Air (With Your Pet!) The Drostdy Hotel has also partnered with Air du Cap to offer travellers the hassle-free option of flying to Graaff-Reinet from the Cape in two hours. Based at Cape Winelands Airport in Durbanville, Air du Cap specialises in providing accessible charter and scenic flights to smaller groups across the Western, Eastern and Northern Cape in their flagship Beechcraft Baron 58. Both Air du Cap and the Drostdy Hotel are pet-friendly, ensuring that guests don’t have to leave their beloved companions behind. Small and medium dogs are welcome in specific pet-friendly rooms, and on arrival, will receive their own water bowl, food bowl and a comfortable dog bed. “We are delighted to collaborate with Air du Cap to offer our guests an exceptional and seamless travel experience,” says Tarryn Farrell, Sales and Marketing Director for Africa at Valor Hospitality. “The convenience of a charter flight, combined with our pet-friendly accommodations, ensures that every traveller – human or fur baby – can enjoy a truly memorable stay.” Drostdy Hotel: Honouring Heritage The Drostdy Hotel has a long and lively history. It was first built in 1805, during the Dutch occupation of the Cape, by architect Louis Thibault, as a residence and office for the landdrost (a Boer magistrate before the establishment of British administration). Over the years, it played host to many important historical figures, such as Lord Charles Somerset, then-governor of the Cape Colony. In 1847 the land was auctioned, and having been divided and subdivided several times, the building was bought by