The Karoo is the perfect stop when travelling to the Garden Route and nestled within the sweeping landscape of the Karoo in South Africa lies the enchanting village of Nieu-Bethesda that is embraced by the rugged beauty of the Camdeboo National Park.
Spend the night in the otherworldly charming village of Nieu-Bethesda, explore the breathtaking tapestry of the semi-desert plains in Camdeboo National Park and grab a bit to eat in Graaff-Reinet before heading to the coast.
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Where to stay in the Karoo en route to the Garden Route
Here are three perfects stop when you are making your way to the rugged coast of the Garden Route:
Stop 1: Nieu-Bethesda
Want to experience some serenity, history and a touch of artistic allure, then Nieu-Bethesda is the perfect place. This captivating village is approximately 50 kilometres from Graaff-Reinet and is mostly famous for the Owl House.
There are two roads leading to Nieu-Bethesda and the road closest to Graaff Reinet is the best option. There are no petrol stations in the village and there are also limited card facilities. So be prepared!
With no street lights and only gravel grounds, this makes it feel like you are living in the olden days. The people in Nieu-Bethesda are extremely friendly and the best part is that you can explore the whole village on foot.
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Things to do in Nieu-Bethesda
If you don’t want to feel rushed, then I suggest booking two nights in this little village.
Here is what you can do in Nieu-Bethesda:
- Step back in time at the Owl House.
- Indulge in the local cuisine and hospitality.
- Taste some local beer at Sneeuberg Brewery.
- Explore the quaint village streets.
- Marvel at the fossil exhibitions at the Kitching Fossil Exploration Centre.
- Stargaze in the tranquil nights.
- Take a donkey cart through town.
Where to stay in Nieu-Bethesda
Not what you are looking for? Find more accommodation here:
Stop 2: Camdeboo National Park
Camdeboo National Park is a stone’s throw away from Nieu-Bethesda and presents a breathtaking tapestry of semi-desert plains, towering cliffs, and the iconic Valley of Desolation – a geological marvel with sheer rock formations that paint a stunning silhouette against the horizon.
Start your morning early, and head to this National Park, with many hiking trails and popular viewpoint spots, this is definitely a great way to start exploring.
Want more information on visiting Camdeboo National Park?
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Stop 3: Graaff-Reinet
Graaff-Reinet is a historic gem that is known as the ‘Gem of the Karoo‘. This small town is adorned with beautifully preserved Cape Dutch architecture with tree-lined streets, and it is surrounded by the vast expanse of the Camdeboo National Park. This is also a great spot to overnight.
So grab a bite to eat at Our Yard or Hello You, wander through the cute streets with quaint shops and grab a coffee at Maria’s Superior Coffees. You also cannot miss the church right in the centre of town.
Where to stay in Graaff-Reinet?
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