Why is Graaff-Reinet such a popular town?

South Africa’s fourth-oldest town, Graaff-Reinet has become so popular over the last recent years that we had to simply visit.

The Karoo Heartland; as many refer Graaff-Reinet too, is a living museum with nearly 200 National Monuments with beautiful Cape Dutch buildings – many of which have been restored.

Named after the governor Cornelius Jacob van de Graaff, whose wife’s name was Cornelia Reinet, the town has four remarkable museums that hold the secrets of the past and include photographic memorabilia, firearms, artwork, and fossils.

But why is Graaff-Reinet streaming with tourists; international and locals alike?

Well, it’s simple. Camdeboo Park encircles the entire town with its lush green vegetation and elaborate mountain landscapes.

It’s a town with a mecca of interesting restaurants; a haven for foodies who enjoys experimenting with flavours.

It’s a town with many artists that displays impressive paintings and pottery and, many other artistic creations.

It’s a town with tranquil hospitality, wildlife viewing, refreshing walks in nature and, friendly locals.

With a town that offers so much, here is what we got up too in Graaff Reinet:

Things to do in Graaff-Reinet

We spent two nights and three days in this Karoo town and even that wasn’t enough time to do everything. I would advise spending at least 5 days. You will exhaust yourself trying to do everything.

Best Lamb Shank at Pioneers Restaurant

If you seeking traditional Karoo food then Pioneers Restaurant is the best place.

But highly recommended is their delicious lamb shank with mash potato, hot vegetables and, a pumpkin fritter. With indoor and outdoor seating, Pioneers offer other signature dishes like Oxtail, Tripe, Babotie, Springbok-Carpaccio and, so many other dishes worth trying.

Breakfast at Our Yard

I love a good cup of coffee and with the Our Yard delectable roastery, you can’t blame me for having 3 cups!

The open courtyard is serene so make yourself comfortable with the breakfast menu. And while you wait for your food to arrive, browse through the roastery, deli, art gallery, and Craft Liquor Store.

They open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and, you won’t be disappointed with the food.

Pop in at Made it

I appreciate a good local handcraft store; where local artists create incredible crafts for you to take home.

Browse through all the wool made items and get an item or two to take home.

Collectibles Dream at The Village

The Village is a new spot that has been around for the last 7 months and, it’s certainly going to be a popular establishment for anyone who loves collectibles.

From motorbikes to vintage cars, makeshift garages, and luxuries dating back to the 90s, it’s a place that is suitable for both couples and parents.

There’s a bar, a mobile food truck, a warehouse to view vintage cars and, a place to purchase a few cool items.

Visit a few Museums

There are four museums worth visiting and one of them is the Reinet House built by the Cape Government between 1805 and 1812 as Dutch Reformed Church Parsonage.

There are thousands of various collectibles from dolls to medical supplies, antique items dating back to the 1800s that you will spend more than an hour being fascinated by these items.

Outside, in the courtyard, make sure to see the oldest vine in South Africa. Planted in 1870 by Reverend Charles Murray, a single stem grew to about 3.1m but fungal rot set in. It’s only in 1983 that the deadwood was removed to preserve the vine and now there are stems.

The Bavarian German Restaurant & Beer Garden

There’s nothing better than finding a spot nestled in an alleyway and discovering that there’s a Bavarian German Restaurant worth visiting.

Situated in a peaceful courtyard, you can do a Bavarian beer tasting or have Hogwild shooters as I did. Even though we didn’t eat there, it’s certainly a place to have breakfast, lunch or, supper.

Grab lunch at Polka

Situated in Somerset Street, Polka is not only a restaurant but a bakery too. Our butter chicken and pulled lamb with caramelised onions crusted pizzas were delicious. Not to mention dessert. A hot, chocolate brownie served with cream.

Walk inside and see all the goodies that are on display. We walked out with a few craft beers, homemade chocolate truffles and, some rusks.

Visit the Valley of Desolation

Visit Valley of Desolation which lies within the Camdeboo National Park. The views of piled dolerite columns with the backdrop of Graaff Reinet is an attraction everyone should witness and, it’s an oasis that will leave you speechless.

This unusual feature is the product of volcanic and erosive forces that have taken 100 million years to form. You can see the Nqweba Dam and view the entire town of Graaff Reinet.

Make sure to have cash at the entrance gate. It’s R46.00 per person and R23.00 per child for South African Citizens and Residents (with ID). Also, take note of the gate times when wanting to view the Valley of Desolation at sunset.

Breakfast and plant shopping at Blue Magnolia Nursery & Coffee Shop

I take pleasure in a scrumptious breakfast. Especially if the eatery has a local nursery.

With a relaxing setting, sit outside and admire the forestry of plants while you order a cup of coffee and a Blue Magnolia breakfast. We ended up with a big plant pot and a few garden sprays.

Where to stay in Graaff Reinet

With a town riddled with tourists, there is no shortage of accommodations; whether it be from camping spots, self-catering, Bed and Breakfasts and, luxury stays, you have so many options to choose from.

We stayed at 4B Lombard street, an Airbnb establishment with a double bed, shower, and a separate kitchen entrance. The hosts were amazing and loved sharing places we should visit in their town.

You are more than welcome to make use of my Airbnb code if you haven’t made use of the platform yet. For every person who completes a stay or takes an experience, you’ll get up to R450 ZAR in credit. Terms apply

Graaff Reinet is popular for so many reasons because it’s a place that ticks off everyone’s acquired travel experience. From stargazing to 200 heritage sites, a national park stocked with game to an abundance of restaurants filled with flavourful cuisines, you bound to just move to this Klein Karoo gem.

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Till the next adventure.