Welcome to Prince Albert: A Homely Haven in the Karoo

Hey there! Have you ever heard of Prince Albert? It’s this incredible little gem nestled in the heart of the Karoo. And let me tell you, it’s a place like no other.

When I stumbled upon Prince Albert, I couldn’t believe my luck. This hidden paradise is a true haven, where you can escape the chaos of the world and find solace in its serene beauty. It’s a place that speaks to your soul, where the whispers of the wind and the gentle rustling of the leaves unite to create a symphony of peace and tranquility.

Prince Albert is a place that makes you feel right at home. The warm smile of its locals welcomes you with open arms, and you become part of a tight-knit community that takes care of one another. They say that the people make the place, and in Prince Albert, this couldn’t be truer. You’ll meet incredible individuals who will ignite a fire in your heart and make you believe in the goodness of humanity.

But it’s not just the people that make Prince Albert special, oh no. The town itself is a sight to behold. With its quaint, picturesque streets lined with charming Victorian and Karoo-style cottages, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. Every corner you turn, every building you pass, whispers a story of the past, giving the town a unique and timeless charm.

And let’s not forget about the natural wonders that surround Prince Albert. The Karoo is a magical landscape filled with breathtaking vistas and awe-inspiring rock formations. It’s a place where you can reconnect with nature, where every sunset paints the sky in a symphony of colors, and every star in the night sky tells a tale as old as time.

What I love about Prince Albert is its ability to slow down time. Life here moves at a different pace – a pace that allows you to savor the small moments, to appreciate the beauty in simplicity. Here, you can escape the rush of the modern world and get back to what truly matters: connection, community, and finding joy in the little things.

So, if you’re looking for a place that feels like home, where the people are kind and the scenery is breathtaking, Prince Albert is waiting for you with open arms. It’s a place that will capture your heart and leave you longing for more. Come and experience the magic of Prince Albert for yourself – you won’t be disappointed.

Prince Albert, a charming town nestled in the Karoo region, holds a special place in the hearts of its residents. I wanted to find out what makes this place so beloved, so I spoke with retired journalist Kevin Jacobs to get his take on why Prince Albert is such a hidden gem.

The Insider: Kevin Jacobs, who now calls Prince Albert home, believes that this town is a haven for all. With his love for painting, indulging in delicious food, and choosing to traverse the town by foot or bicycle, he has truly found his bliss here. More than anything, he cherishes the close-knit community that Prince Albert offers. To him, there’s no other place he’d rather be.

The beautiful Karoo. Picture by Sam Reinders

I have this friend named Kevin. He’s always been a bit of a doubter. He thinks that what I experienced that night was just a result of my overactive imagination and the wine we had, Oude Werf 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz. But I know the truth.

So, we’re leaving the restaurant in Church Street, Prince Albert. It’s so dark outside, thanks to Eskom. We have to be careful not to trip over anything. As we walk, I look up… and wow! It’s like something out of a movie. I can see all the stars in the Milky Way, shining brilliantly against the pitch-black sky. They form this huge arc that stretches as far as the eye can see. It’s moments like this that make me believe without a doubt that we’re not alone in this universe.

I’m not really into spiritual stuff, but I can’t deny the excitement I feel. It’s like a chill running down my spine, vibrating at a frequency of around 432 Hz. They say this is the universal pitch, the music of the cosmos. For a brief moment, I entertain the idea of saying something profound. Of course, it turns out to be just a WhatsApp message from my wife, cautioning me to take it easy on the red wine.

Earlier today, there was a massive power outage that lasted a whopping 33 hours. It was quite an inconvenience and definitely not great for business. However, when you think about it, it was a pretty extraordinary event. The blackout taught us some valuable lessons about coming together as a community, thinking outside the box, and embracing patience. In Prince Albert, the restaurateurs quickly adapted their menus and guided their customers to alternative options. The guest house owners brought out the candles, creating a cozy atmosphere. And as the locals sipped their coffee, they exchanged all sorts of wild speculations.

Lazy Lizard in town is a great place to enjoy a delicious spread. Check out this image by Sam Reinders.

I must say, I really love Prince Albert. It’s a unique and charming little town that has captured my heart. The people here are not your average folks – they are smart, quirky, and always know how to keep you entertained. But above all, they are extremely friendly and welcoming. They love to chat and share their local wisdom with anyone who wants to listen. And let me tell you, they really love their food! The locals here are connoisseurs of good food and they know how to have a good time with their fermented drinks.

Now, I have to warn you, there are some feuds that happen in this town. But don’t worry, they’re mostly harmless and just a part of the small-town drama. Some of these feuds can last for years and you can spot their impact in things like dinner-party guest lists and committee memberships. I know, it sounds like a scene out of a movie, right?

When I meet new people, it’s impressive to see how many of them are dedicated to making a positive impact on their community or helping animals. This is especially true for my friends Toni Young husband and Kevin Jacobs, who have done amazing work in their careers as journalists.

A few years back, my parents decided to settle down in Prince Albert and expand their furry family by adopting more cats. Little did they know, this decision would plant deep roots in their hearts. Alongside compassionate vets and others, they dedicated themselves to rescuing and caring for countless abused, abandoned, and neglected animals. My family even welcomed two of these rescued kittens, Chloe and Amber, into our home about a year and a half ago. Now, these mischievous felines have us wrapped around their paws, as cats often do.

Since moving to Prince Albert, my parents, especially my stepfather Kevin, have become true experts in explaining their unique lifestyle. Whenever someone raises an eyebrow and asks, “So, what exactly do you do around here?” Kevin always has a thoughtful response. He proudly explains, “We’re lucky enough to have a fantastic Art Deco theater right in our town. We get to enjoy films, live music, and even performances by classical musicians. But more importantly, we have something incredibly valuable here – a sense of community.”

As I explore Prince Albert, I find that the Swartberg Mountains, just behind the town, sometimes get snowy in the winter. It’s pretty cool to see snow near such a quaint place.

The best way to really experience Prince Albert, in my opinion, is to take a nice leisurely stroll down Church Street. It’s the main road in town, and it’s filled with interesting sights. Get ready to say hello a lot, because you’ll be waving to so many people along the way. It reminds me of that fancy Japanese cat statue you sometimes see in oriental restaurants. You know, the one with the golden coat? Well, it’s like that here, but instead of waving a paw, you’re waving to all the familiar faces.

If you come at the right time, you’ll have a great experience at The Real Food Company. The owner, Jeremy Freemantle, creates delicious tapas-style dishes using ingredients from the local area. When we went there, Jeremy was working hard, preparing tasty dishes with just the light from lamps and candles because the power was out. Despite the challenges, customers kept coming in, hungry for his food. We decided to try the smoked salmon with ginger and spices, the pulled pork, and the Thai beef salad. And let me tell you, it was all absolutely delicious.

When I go to the Saturday morning market, it’s like stepping into a whole new world. It’s a place where I can catch up on all the latest town gossip and news about my friends. It’s even better than reading a newspaper! In just 20 minutes, I can run into someone I haven’t seen in 35 years, enjoy a cup of coffee with Elin Bardin, the owner of the guest house, have a chat with someone who knows my family well, reunite with an old friend at the coffee stand, and hear a wild story about the crazy partying at AfrikaBurn.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my job is having the opportunity to meet incredible individuals like Caleb Swanepoel. Caleb, a young man from Prince Albert, experienced a life-altering event when he lost his right leg to a great white shark while surfing at Buffels Bay in June 2015. Despite this adversity, Caleb’s determination shines through.

Currently in his third year at the University of Cape Town, Caleb has developed a deep love for the water. Not only does he spend a significant amount of time in the sea, but he has also discovered his passion for adaptive surfing. Adaptive surfing is a form of surfing specifically designed for individuals with physical challenges. It is a remarkable sport that allows people to conquer the waves and enjoy the beauty of the ocean.

Whenever I have the opportunity to chat with Caleb, his infectious smile and polite demeanor always leave a lasting impression. His positive outlook on life and his ability to overcome obstacles are truly inspiring. It is individuals like Caleb who remind us of the indomitable human spirit and the strength that lies within each of us.

An impressive sight since its consecration in 1865, Prince Albert’s Dutch Reform Church stands proudly at the heart of this peaceful Karoo retreat. With its gothic revival-style architecture, the church adds a touch of majesty to the picturesque landscape. The charming town of Prince Albert is kept in balance by Mayor Goliath Lottering—a former teacher and dedicated member of the Prince Albert Community Trust. He faces the difficult task of meeting the town’s diverse needs and confronting its myriad challenges. Despite the ongoing work that lies ahead, Mayor Lottering remains optimistic about the town’s potential, declaring that Prince Albert has a kind and caring soul. In a remarkable show of accessibility, he even removed the fence in front of his own home in order to better connect with the community he serves.

I’m Hans Burger, a retired airline pilot, and I sometimes take my own RV-8 kit plane to Stilbaai and other seaside places. For me, Prince Albert has everything I look for in a permanent retirement spot – easy access to a runway, clean water, a secure environment, and pure air free of pollution. And my wife, Marina, agrees. She loves the small acts of kindness that happen all the time in this town.

So, how do I describe this charming Karoo town? Let’s start with the peach-colored prison. Yes, you read that right. It has a welcoming sign and a notice calling it a “place of new beginnings.” I see two warders with big smiles on their faces, and for a moment, I think about asking them if they have guest accommodation. But then I decide not to be a clever person.

Thank you, Prince Albert. I’ve had a great time here.

Where do the locals go?

If you’re looking for some entertainment, The Showroom Theatre is a must-visit. Whether you want to watch a movie or enjoy a live performance, this elegant venue has got you covered.

I absolutely love The Showroom. Every Wednesday, I make it a point to catch a movie there. And whenever there’s a live performance, you can bet I’ll be in attendance. The atmosphere is always fantastic!

Prince Albert is not just a beautiful place, but it also offers great outdoor activities. If you’re into running, you’ll love it here. Within minutes, you can be out of town and surrounded by majestic mountains.

One of my favorite things to do is to venture just a little way outside of town and witness the breathtaking Karoo sunsets. I like to sit back and relax with a glass of delicious red wine, taking in the beauty of the surroundings.

We have our own routine for enjoyment. My husband and I make it a point to go to The Showroom Theatre once a week without fail. We absolutely love watching movies there. And when we’re not at the theater, we enjoy going for a refreshing bike ride in the clean, fresh air.

My name is Mariette Heskwa, and I am the de facto boss at The Sanctuary Restaurant.
I have two favorite places in Prince Albert – the school, where I sometimes lend a hand in teaching, and of course, my very own restaurant.

Plan your visit to Prince Albert

Getting there

If you’re coming from Cape Town, the easiest way to get to Prince Albert is to take the N1 highway. Drive past Matjiesfontein and Laingsburg, and when you reach Prince Albert Road, turn right onto the R407. It’s a straightforward 43-kilometer drive from there. You should plan for a travel time of about 4 and a half hours.

What you need to know

If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the friendly folks at Prince Albert Tourism. You can give them a call or visit them in person at 42 Church Street. Just dial 0235411366 and they’ll be more than happy to help.

Where to stay

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, I have a few recommendations for you. Let’s start with The French Cottage, where Gallic chic and Karoo comfort collide. This place is something special, I tell you. Picture this: a meticulously decorated cottage with a cozy verandah adorned with comfortable couches. And that’s not all – it also boasts a superbly equipped kitchen, a dreamy four-poster bed, and an ambiance that oozes romance. The best part? It’s only R990 a night, and it sleeps two! You can find it at 19 Deurdrift Street. Give them a call at 0823429852.

Next on my list is Prince Albert Country Stay. This charming establishment offers a variety of rooms, each one more delightful than the last. If you’re on your honeymoon, I highly recommend Lady Chatterley’s Chamber – it’s simply perfect for a romantic getaway. But if you ask me, the Library is the real gem here. It features an antique double bed and a wall filled with books, creating a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere. The cost? From R520 per person, including a delicious breakfast. You’ll find this hidden treasure at 46 Church Street.

If you prefer a more rustic experience, look no further than Olienhof. This olive farm offers three self-catering cottages, each with its own private braai area. But if camping is your thing, they’ve got you covered with a neat campsite complete with electricity and ablution facilities. The prices are reasonable too – starting from R280 per person for the cottages and R80 per person for camping. Contact them at 0235411687 to book your stay.

So, what are you waiting for? Give these wonderful accommodations a try and make your stay in Prince Albert an unforgettable one!

When you visit the Karoo Donkey Sanctuary, get ready to have your heart stolen. Trust me, the residents there are simply adorable. Just take a look at the image from the Karoo Donkey Sanctuary, and you’ll see what I mean.

The sanctuary serves as a safe haven for donkeys and horses that have been abandoned, neglected, or abused. It’s a place where these beautiful creatures can find love and care. If you want to pay them a visit, you should know that the sanctuary takes visitor management seriously. You can plan your visit on Fridays, Saturdays, Mondays, or Wednesdays at either 11:00 or 15:00. It’s best to book your visit beforehand by giving them a call at 0829006103. They charge R100 per person, which is definitely worth it to experience the joy of being surrounded by these lovely animals. The sanctuary is located just two kilometers outside of town on Christinade Witt Street.

If you’re in the mood for some adventure, why not hire a mountain bike from Arno Botha at Prince Albert Cycles? For only R250 per day, you can explore the town and its surroundings on two wheels. They even offer e-bikes if you’re interested. You can find them at 32 Church Street, and you can contact them at 0833959038.

The Swartberg Pass is a breathtaking drive that you don’t want to miss. Unfortunately, when I was there, it was closed due to flooding. The good news is that it will be reopened in a few months. Trust me, if you have the opportunity to drive along this pass, don’t hesitate. It’s a must-see! To stay updated on the reopening schedule, you can call 0235411320.

Hey there! If you’re looking for some unique and delightful gifts, why not check out Lah-di-dah? It’s a charming farmstall that offers a variety of locally made treats like preserves, olives, soaps, and jams. You can find all sorts of goodies to eat, wear, or carry. You can find them at 1 Church Street, and give them a call at 0235411846.

Feeling curious? Make sure to stop by Lazy Lizard! It’s a one-of-a-kind shop that’s hard to define, but it’s definitely loads of fun. You can grab a bite to eat (they serve really tasty food), get something printed, pick up some unique curios, or simply enjoy a fabulous cup of coffee. Swing by at 9 Church Street and give them a ring at 0235411379.

For a delectable dairy experience, you have to visit Gay’s Guernsey Dairy and Deli. Their products are made from fresh, creamy milk sourced from happy Guernsey cows, resulting in incredibly delicious cheeses. But that’s not all! They also have amazing lamb, goat, venison, pork, and beef. It’s a real treat for your taste buds. Discover this gem at 4 Church Street, or give them a call at 0235411274.

Now, let’s talk about food!

Welcome to The Country Store and Stay, where we blend the charm of old collectibles with exceptional accommodations. Owned by William and Colleen Penfold, who used to live in Cape Town, our establishment offers a unique and memorable experience.

Start your day off right with a delicious farm breakfast at The Sanctuary. For just R65, you can enjoy a delightful meal that will keep you satisfied until dinner. If you’re feeling extra hungry, try our rösti breakfast for just R5 more and you won’t even need to worry about lunch! You can find us at 4 De Beer Street, and our contact number is 0235411114.

If you’re in the mood for a delectable evening meal, head over to Camilla’s Kitchen. We pride ourselves on showcasing the finest local ingredients in our dishes. Please make sure to book in advance to secure your spot at our restaurant, located at 34 Church Street. To make a reservation, simply give us a call at 0799042995.

Looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate? Simply Saffron’s is the perfect spot. Our owners and therapists, Ridwaan Lockhart and Hermon Coleman, offer a range of services, including healing massages and ‘saffron yoga’. We also serve delectable dinners on Friday and Saturday nights. To ensure you don’t miss out, it’s best to book ahead of time. You can find us at 10 Church Street, or give us a call at 0235411040.

For a unique dining experience, visit The Real Food Company. We specialize in ‘Karoo tapas’ and have a wide selection of wines to complement your meal. Join us for small-plate dinners from Wednesday to Saturday, or stop by for lunch on Saturday. You can find us at 54 Church Street, and our contact number is 0235411112.

Hey there! I’m thrilled to share a captivating tale with you, one that made its debut in the remarkable July 2017 edition of the phenomenal Getaway magazine.

Get ready to embark on a riveting journey as I unveil the most splendid accommodations in the enchanting Midlands, unveil secret havens for budget-friendly family vacations in Durban, and explore the oh-so-magnificent and, wait for it, mostly free activities that await you in the iconic city of New York!