Vrisch Gewagt

*This is the place where the land can't be tamed, where prayers are more passionate and where the seasons bide their own time. If you hear the call of the wind. If you feel the pull of the mountains. If you need to visit the wide open spaces of the Renosterveld, walk the path of the Springbok, the leopards, the Giant Hare, the Karakul and the tortoise *If you know it is time to stop the world and be one with nature, in perfect silence. If you want to really see the stars….This place is for you. Here, you will experience a new state of being … And you won't want to share it with just anyone. *At first, you think there's something wrong when you arrive. It takes a while to figure it out – it's the absolute silence *When you walk into your accommodation, you will flop down on the huge comfy bed, dressed in crisp high thread-count linens, sigh and whisper “I’m home.” You’re not, of course. You are at Vrisch Gewagt, but you can pretend for a while. No expense has been spared in luxurious furniture, fittings and fixtures. We’re talking SMEG fridges and Nespresso coffee machines in every suite, designer bathrooms, original artwork and seriously artistic décor *It’s all so good that we had to set the price a little steep, just to ensure guests eventually leave. But, for guests who really want to stay on, long-term rentals are negotiable *One of the best things about Vrisch Gewagt is that you won’t be disturbed by annoying staff appointing themselves as your personal planners, interrupting your thoughts with inane comments about the weather (not that the weather in the Karoo is ever inane), or prying into your personal life The owner of Vrisch Gewagt is as intensely private as they come, although you can’t help but notice hints of his exuberance and passion for life; from the framed photos of Tango dancers in the guest loo in the manor house, to the inviting accommodation erected for owls and bats in the olive groves, in addition to that for humans

Area Info

Prince Albert had its origins in 1762 when a loan farm named Kweeckvalleij "the valley of cultivation and plenty" was established in a green and fertile valley at the foot of the awesome Swartberg Mountains

Today, the town is one of the prettiest in the country - a place of great serenity and charm, with beautiful architecture, fascinating flora and fauna and great Karoo hospitality. Just 2 km from the foot of the awesome Swartberg Pass, Prince Albert is the perfect base for exploring the wonders of the Swartberg including Gamkaskloof (The Hell) and Meiringspoort.

Hiking, fishing, mountain biking, birding and botanical excursions are major attractions. Aside from a superb climate, with a high sunshine index and spectacular night skies, the village itself is a small gem, with beautifully preserved Cape Dutch, Karoo and Victorian buildings. Of these, 19 are National Monuments. Prince Albert is known for its sun-ripened fresh and dried fruit, especially figs and apricots. Karoo lamb, olives, olive oil and homemade cheeses are local delicacies.

Activities for visitors include a guided historical walk through the town, a well-marked "koppie trail" with almost 100 listed plants, fossil hunting and stargazing, a tractor trail to the olive farm, traditional Karoo meals and a visit to the delightful Fransie Pienaar Museum - and there is ample hotel and guesthouse accommodation to suit all preferences and pockets

Prince Albert is well situated for overnight stops from Gauteng, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. The Garden Route resorts and beaches are two hours south by road. Oudtshoorn, the Cango Caves and the Karoo National Park are just an hour away