Graaff-Reinet

Graaff-Reinet lies in a bend of the Sundays River, in the shadow of the rocky Sneeuberg Mountain and surrounded by the Camdeboo National Park. Graaf-Reinet, known as the 'gem of the Karoo', is well worth a visit not least because of its preservation of the character of a typical 19th century town - it has over 200 buildings claimed as National Monuments, including some of the original slave cottages.

Although in the heart of the Karoo, Graaff-Reinet the area is green and mountainous and host to a rich bird and animal life. The town offers specialised tours to view game, rock art and fossils. There is also a township walkabout.

While in the area be sure to visit to the Owl House in Nieu-Bethesda, just 50 km north Graaff-Reinet.

The nearby Valley of Desolation, has beautiful examples of the unique jointed pillars formed by dolerites, rising an incredible 120 metres in places.