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The largest town in the Klein Karoo, Oudtshoorn (pronounced "oats - horn") offers all the amenities of a regional capital - with all the charm of a traditional "plattelandse dorp" (rural town).
Although water is scarce in the semi-arid Klein Karoo (which is why there is no heavy industry in Oudtshoorn), it is a fertile farming area and the town - once the village of Veldschoendorp - owed its early affluence to the feather booms of the 1880's and the early twentieth century. But wealth disappeared as quickly as it came, leaving only a legacy of beautiful architecture in the Art Nouveau and Victorian styles.
Today, the economy of Oudtshoorn relies on agriculture and tourism - its major attractions being the natural environment (including Cango, the largest show cave in Africa), events like the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (South Africa's biggest Arts Fest), endurance races like the Cango Marathon, the "To Hell And Back" mountain bike race - and, of course, the curiously handsome ostrich.
Every road into the Klein Karoo crosses a spectacular mountain pass - and all lead through the fantastic Cape fynbos.
The Klein Karoo is described as a botanical hotspot. It is the only place where fynbos (the Cape Floristic Kingdom) overlaps thicket and succulent vegetation - and the Swartberg Mountains are listed as part of the Cape Floral Kingdom World Heritage site (and, as part of the Gouritz Initiative, will soon be part of a major conservation corridor that will link the Klein Karoo to the Indian Ocean).
But perhaps one of the best things about Oudtshoorn is that it is in the Klein Karoo - which means that, within just an hour's drive from town, you can be at the coast at Mossel Bay or George - or inland and in the mountains on your way to the Great Karoo.
Nowhere else in the world can you find so much floral diversity within such close proximity; a semi-desert scarcely 80km away from a coastal rainforest...it's almost hard to imagine. Show more
The history and development of Oudtshoorn is inextricably connected with the growth of the ostrich feather industry from as early as 1860. By the turn of the twentieth century (during the Edwardian Period) the use of prime ostrich feathers in ladies’ clothing was high fashion, especially in England and Europe. Feathers were light and easily imported and fetched incredibly high prices. The resultant prosperity had a profound effect on Oudtshoorn and its immediate environment.
Numerous immigrants, particularly the Jews of Eastern Europe, were drawn to the “boom” town, mostly because their relatives and friends had already established contact by “smousing” (trading).
Oudtshoorn acquired such a large Jewish community at the time that it became known as “little Jerusalem”. With so much money available, the town expanded rapidly. More churches were built as well as many public (schools) and commercial buildings.
The farming community, who had suddenly become extremely rich, vied with each other to display their wealth and built magnificent “Ostrich Feather Palaces” decorated and embellished with stained glass windows, turrets and handsome cast-iron work (locally known as “broekielace” - cast-iron decorations that remind one of the lace decoration on ladies’ underwear).
Several of these “Ostrich Feather Palaces” are still to be viewed in Oudtshoorn and its immediate environment. The distinctive sandstone used for these buildings was readily available because it was locally quarried. The skill of the Scottish stonemasons, originally imported for the building of the Dutch Reformed Church (“Moederkerk” - Mother Church) is evident in these fine buildings.
A number of well-known architects such as Charles Bullock, George Wallace and J.E. Vixeboxse opened offices in Oudtshoorn and were responsible for the design of many an Ostrich Palace.
Even today their designs provide a distinctive architectural heritage for Oudtshoorn, reflecting the opulence of the Ostrich Feather Boom of 1860—1914.
It was primarily the invention of the motor car and the advent of the First World War that brought the Ostrich Feather Boom Era to an end. Faster open vehicles played havoc with the ladies’ splendid feather decorated fashions and fashion trends in 1914 and onwards were generally more sober and less flamboyant.
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This magnificent sandstone Victorian mansion is situated on an acre of land in a quiet up market residential area within walking distance from the town centre and Oudtshoorn’s famous restaurants.
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Cul-de Sac is situated in the heart of Oudtshoorn. Cul-de Sac ensures relaxation in a peaceful environment situated within walking distance from town. Our location is ideal for people exploring the Klein Karoo.
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Swartberg Country Manor is nestled in the heart of the Klein Karoo on the farm Voorbedacht. Here at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains guests can easily imagine a time when life was so much simpler.
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Rosenhof Country House is situated on the outskirts of Oudtshoorn en route to the Cango Caves and Ostrich Farms. The carefully renovated homestead (Circa 1852), with its yellowwood beams and ceilings and a tasteful collection of antique furniture,...
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We welcome you to our 150 year old sandstone home in the centre of the historical town of Oudtshoorn at the heart of the Klein Karoo. All 10 rooms are en-suite with shower, have 100% cotton linen, complimentary coffee & tea facilities and...
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Riverside Lodge provides two self-catering tree houses each of which can sleep 4 people. For guests preferring bed & breakfast accommodation Riverside Lodge also offers four luxurious and spacious suites.
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This modern guest house is located in the heart of the quaint town of Oudtshoorn and is ideally located for guests wanting to explore the area.
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In the picturesque Schoemans-hoek Valley, halfway between Oudtshoorn and the Cango Caves, lies Berluda - an intimate guesthouse and self-catering family experience.
The Schoeman Family's footprints lie deeply imprinted on the roads of the valley....
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Visitors can choose between a double bedroom or a one room open-plan self-catering chalet or a luxury three bedroom house. At Oudtshoorn Holiday Resort we offer 24-hour reception and friendly service, because your comfort always comes first.
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Oue Werf Guesthouse is a peaceful homestead nestled in the charming Schoemanshoek Valley near Oudtshoorn. Situated in a radius of 15km all attractions and activities. We offer the ideal setting for exploring the Klein Karoo.
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Mooiplaas Guesthouse is a stylish and luxurious four-star guesthouse situated on our family run working ostrich farm just south of Oudtshoorn, in the heart of the Klein Karoo.
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Are you looking for a wonderful holiday in which you can experience the tranquility of nature while enjoying the fantastic view of the Cango Valley?
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The Country House is situated on the route to the Cango Caves, the Swartberg Pass and the circle route to Prince Albert via Meiringspoort. It is also within easy reach of the Cango Ostrich Farm and Cango Wildlife Ranch.
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Bisibee Guest House offers affordable accommodation in Oudtshoorn. This guest house is situated in a well established area of Oudtshoorn and is within walking distance of the town centre.
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Nestled within a rugged mountainous terrain is a place of happiness. The lodge's quiet farm atmosphere offers sanctuary from the glow and buzz of the city - the ideal oasis for balancing the mind, body and soul. The African-style architecture...
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The Barons Palace Hotel in Oudtshoorn reveals to her guests an era of affluence and opulence. The Hotel was built at the turn of the century by a wealthy Ostrich Baron. The warm furnishings, large airy rooms, wooden staircase and huge log fires in...
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Kleinplaas is an affordable gem in Oudtshoorn, the heart of the Klein Karoo, and is situated along the scenic mountain route to the Cango Caves. We offer 51 modern, fully furnished and serviced self-catering chalets with B&B option.
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Oudtshoorn is easily reached for a relaxing holiday or overnight stay to regenerate body and soul
and has been called South Africa's tourism capital with good reason.
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De Denne gives you tranquility, spectacular views and soul touching moments. Sunsets you'll never find elsewhere and hospitality to make you feel at home. Our accommodation comprises of 8 beautiful cottages and 5 luxury en-suite bedrooms with views...
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Miles B&B Guest House offers comfortable home-from-home Oudtshoorn accommodation with a cosy ambience, a perfect setting for those who wish to be within the hub of Oudtshoorn but with the sensation of tranquil surroundings in the countryside.
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With personal attention, delicious home-cooked meals (dinner available by prior arrangement), a beautiful country setting and a classically decorated home combined with modern touches, Thylitshia Villa promises an unforgettable stay.
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Stylish and peaceful, Pictures is situated in a residential area of Oudtshoorn close to the town center & major tourist attractions. With its warm and comfortable environment, you will feel right at home.
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The beautiful farm house, stables and milking parlour date back to 1830. All the buildings in the complex have been creatively converted into modern, quaint en suite bedrooms with the retention of an atmosphere of rustic charm. The terracotta...
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Earthbound Guest House, Oudtshoorn, offers 3 Star TGCSA graded bed and breakfast or self-catering accommodation in South Africa’s Klein Karoo Region or Garden Route Area. Situated in a quiet and safe residential area, less than 1.5km from the...
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Wilgewandel holiday farm near Oudtshoorn is renowned for its accommodation, restaurant and fun family activities such as camel rides and foefie slide.
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If you are looking for an oasis to get away from it all, Chandelier is the place to be. At Chandelier, the Ferreira family has created something special, in a malaria free environment, for those who yearn to spend some quality time close to nature.
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Welcome to Langenhoven B & B
Langenhoven B&B is centrally located and offers eight clean, affordable en-suite rooms with all the required necessities. Staying with us gives you the opportunity to explore Oudtshoorn and its surroundings.
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The apartment consists of two en-suite bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a TV room with DSTV and an open-plan living area leading onto a large veranda with braai facilities and seating area. The third upstairs self catering room has its own...
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Only 7km outside Oudtshoorn, in the Garden Route, surrounded by the famous Swartberg and Outeniqua mountains, is one of the world’s 17 "hot spots" with 3 overlapping flower zones. Surrounded by variety attractions like ostrich farms,...
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101 Oudtshoorn Holiday Accommodation is run by Miranda and Bart who welcome you personally.
Children are really welcome here; we have a large swimming pool, big exotic garden, many safe playgrounds for kids.
We have 2 double rooms, 1 luxury, 1...
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Unique, understated elegance in luxury tent accommodation. With mountains as backdrop and a magnificent waterhole at your doorstep,it's the closest you'll get to the wild of the Klein Karoo. Just off the famous Route 62, Buffelsdrift Game Lodge...
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OuTol Cango Retreat is situated along the banks of the Grobbelaars River, tucked away under massive willow trees offering visitors the ultimate mountain retreat where you can escape the pace and drudgery of city life.
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Die Fonteine is a luxury guest house, situated in the heart of the Cango Valley near Oudtshoorn. We offer stylishly decorated en-suite rooms with beautiful views of the Schoemanshoek Valley and the spectacular Swartberg Mountain Range.
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This charming Victorian home is situated in the heart of historic Oudsthoorn. Oakdene is sheltered under oak trees on the main tourist route and is within walking distance of the town centre and well known restaurants where local wines and ostrich...
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Our Mission is to provide personal, professional, friendly and exceptional service and accommodation
to every guest at Hlangana Lodge.
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Stonebreaker Country Lodge is situated in the picturesque Schoemanspoort on the road to the world famous Cango Caves. The main theme is African with special attention to luxury. Completely surrounded by mountains, you can listen to the peaceful...
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Enjoy Karoo rural tranquility in this unique self-catering retreat set in a stunning garden with a crystal blue pool.The retreat offers 5 spacious en suite bedrooms, which can accommodate 1 - 12 guests in beautifully decorated comfort.The retreat...
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A warm and friendly welcome awaits our guests at Le Roux's Guest House, a stylish and comfortable establishment located in the heart of the Klein Karoo, Oudtshoorn.
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The four star Turnberry Boutique Hotel is situated in the centre of the picturesque Klein Karoo town of Oudtshoorn. A warm welcome, awaits visitors to this tiny piece of Scotland set in the heart of the Klein Karoo. Relax in the comfort of one of...
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Situated at the foot of the majestic Swartberg Mountain rangein the Klein Karoo, Surval Boutique Olive Estate offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Schoemanshoek Valley. We offer accommodation fit for a king.
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We are a working ostrich farm in season & 4 Star Guest Lodge. Situated at the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains, 14 km from Oudtshoorn, exactly halfway between Oudtshoorn and the World Famous Cango Caves.
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Gumtree Guest House is one of the finest accommodations in Oudtshoorn, overlooking the Grobbelaars River and the historic suspension bridge. This guest house offers luxury and charm, in the shade of a century old giant gum tree.
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Luxury Self Catering Accommodation in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape.Modern, spacious houses with beautiful views of the Swartberg Mountains.
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Nestled within a rugged mountainous terrain is a place of happiness. The lodge's quiet farm atmosphere offers sanctuary from the glow and buzz of the city - the ideal oasis for balancing the mind, body and soul. The African-style architecture...
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Our Mission is to provide personal, professional, friendly and exceptional service and accommodation
to every guest at Hlangana Lodge.
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|
|
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OuTol Cango Retreat is situated along the banks of the Grobbelaars River, tucked away under massive willow trees offering visitors the ultimate mountain retreat where you can escape the pace and drudgery of city life.
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We are a working ostrich farm in season & 4 Star Guest Lodge. Situated at the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains, 14 km from Oudtshoorn, exactly halfway between Oudtshoorn and the World Famous Cango Caves.
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Swartberg Country Manor is nestled in the heart of the Klein Karoo on the farm Voorbedacht. Here at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains guests can easily imagine a time when life was so much simpler.
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Oue Werf Guesthouse is a peaceful homestead nestled in the charming Schoemanshoek Valley near Oudtshoorn. Situated in a radius of 15km all attractions and activities. We offer the ideal setting for exploring the Klein Karoo.
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This modern guest house is located in the heart of the quaint town of Oudtshoorn and is ideally located for guests wanting to explore the area.
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Stylish and peaceful, Pictures is situated in a residential area of Oudtshoorn close to the town center & major tourist attractions. With its warm and comfortable environment, you will feel right at home.
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Miles B&B Guest House offers comfortable home-from-home Oudtshoorn accommodation with a cosy ambience, a perfect setting for those who wish to be within the hub of Oudtshoorn but with the sensation of tranquil surroundings in the countryside.
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Are you looking for a wonderful holiday in which you can experience the tranquility of nature while enjoying the fantastic view of the Cango Valley?
|
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Kleinplaas is an affordable gem in Oudtshoorn, the heart of the Klein Karoo, and is situated along the scenic mountain route to the Cango Caves. We offer 51 modern, fully furnished and serviced self-catering chalets with B&B option.
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Die Fonteine is a luxury guest house, situated in the heart of the Cango Valley near Oudtshoorn. We offer stylishly decorated en-suite rooms with beautiful views of the Schoemanshoek Valley and the spectacular Swartberg Mountain Range.
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With personal attention, delicious home-cooked meals (dinner available by prior arrangement), a beautiful country setting and a classically decorated home combined with modern touches, Thylitshia Villa promises an unforgettable stay.
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Mooiplaas Guesthouse is a stylish and luxurious four-star guesthouse situated on our family run working ostrich farm just south of Oudtshoorn, in the heart of the Klein Karoo.
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This magnificent sandstone Victorian mansion is situated on an acre of land in a quiet up market residential area within walking distance from the town centre and Oudtshoorn’s famous restaurants.
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Situated at the foot of the majestic Swartberg Mountain rangein the Klein Karoo, Surval Boutique Olive Estate offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Schoemanshoek Valley. We offer accommodation fit for a king.
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Wilgewandel holiday farm near Oudtshoorn is renowned for its accommodation, restaurant and fun family activities such as camel rides and foefie slide.
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Only 7km outside Oudtshoorn, in the Garden Route, surrounded by the famous Swartberg and Outeniqua mountains, is one of the world’s 17 "hot spots" with 3 overlapping flower zones. Surrounded by variety attractions like ostrich farms,...
|
|
|
|
If you are looking for an oasis to get away from it all, Chandelier is the place to be. At Chandelier, the Ferreira family has created something special, in a malaria free environment, for those who yearn to spend some quality time close to nature.
|
|
|
|
A warm and friendly welcome awaits our guests at Le Roux's Guest House, a stylish and comfortable establishment located in the heart of the Klein Karoo, Oudtshoorn.
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Cul-de Sac is situated in the heart of Oudtshoorn. Cul-de Sac ensures relaxation in a peaceful environment situated within walking distance from town. Our location is ideal for people exploring the Klein Karoo.
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The Country House is situated on the route to the Cango Caves, the Swartberg Pass and the circle route to Prince Albert via Meiringspoort. It is also within easy reach of the Cango Ostrich Farm and Cango Wildlife Ranch.
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Rosenhof Country House is situated on the outskirts of Oudtshoorn en route to the Cango Caves and Ostrich Farms. The carefully renovated homestead (Circa 1852), with its yellowwood beams and ceilings and a tasteful collection of antique furniture,...
|
|
|
|
101 Oudtshoorn Holiday Accommodation is run by Miranda and Bart who welcome you personally.
Children are really welcome here; we have a large swimming pool, big exotic garden, many safe playgrounds for kids.
We have 2 double rooms, 1 luxury, 1...
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|
|
Oudtshoorn is easily reached for a relaxing holiday or overnight stay to regenerate body and soul
and has been called South Africa's tourism capital with good reason.
|
|
|
|
Stonebreaker Country Lodge is situated in the picturesque Schoemanspoort on the road to the world famous Cango Caves. The main theme is African with special attention to luxury. Completely surrounded by mountains, you can listen to the peaceful...
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|
|
|
Unique, understated elegance in luxury tent accommodation. With mountains as backdrop and a magnificent waterhole at your doorstep,it's the closest you'll get to the wild of the Klein Karoo. Just off the famous Route 62, Buffelsdrift Game Lodge...
|
|
|
|
The four star Turnberry Boutique Hotel is situated in the centre of the picturesque Klein Karoo town of Oudtshoorn. A warm welcome, awaits visitors to this tiny piece of Scotland set in the heart of the Klein Karoo. Relax in the comfort of one of...
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Luxury Self Catering Accommodation in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape.Modern, spacious houses with beautiful views of the Swartberg Mountains.
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Bisibee Guest House offers affordable accommodation in Oudtshoorn. This guest house is situated in a well established area of Oudtshoorn and is within walking distance of the town centre.
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We welcome you to our 150 year old sandstone home in the centre of the historical town of Oudtshoorn at the heart of the Klein Karoo. All 10 rooms are en-suite with shower, have 100% cotton linen, complimentary coffee & tea facilities and...
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Riverside Lodge provides two self-catering tree houses each of which can sleep 4 people. For guests preferring bed & breakfast accommodation Riverside Lodge also offers four luxurious and spacious suites.
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The Barons Palace Hotel in Oudtshoorn reveals to her guests an era of affluence and opulence. The Hotel was built at the turn of the century by a wealthy Ostrich Baron. The warm furnishings, large airy rooms, wooden staircase and huge log fires in...
|
|
|
|
Visitors can choose between a double bedroom or a one room open-plan self-catering chalet or a luxury three bedroom house. At Oudtshoorn Holiday Resort we offer 24-hour reception and friendly service, because your comfort always comes first.
|
|
|
|
The apartment consists of two en-suite bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a TV room with DSTV and an open-plan living area leading onto a large veranda with braai facilities and seating area. The third upstairs self catering room has its own...
|
|
|
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This charming Victorian home is situated in the heart of historic Oudsthoorn. Oakdene is sheltered under oak trees on the main tourist route and is within walking distance of the town centre and well known restaurants where local wines and ostrich...
|
|
|
|
The beautiful farm house, stables and milking parlour date back to 1830. All the buildings in the complex have been creatively converted into modern, quaint en suite bedrooms with the retention of an atmosphere of rustic charm. The terracotta...
|
|
|
|
Earthbound Guest House, Oudtshoorn, offers 3 Star TGCSA graded bed and breakfast or self-catering accommodation in South Africa’s Klein Karoo Region or Garden Route Area. Situated in a quiet and safe residential area, less than 1.5km from the...
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|
|
|
In the picturesque Schoemans-hoek Valley, halfway between Oudtshoorn and the Cango Caves, lies Berluda - an intimate guesthouse and self-catering family experience.
The Schoeman Family's footprints lie deeply imprinted on the roads of the valley....
|
|
|
|
Welcome to Langenhoven B & B
Langenhoven B&B is centrally located and offers eight clean, affordable en-suite rooms with all the required necessities. Staying with us gives you the opportunity to explore Oudtshoorn and its surroundings.
|
|
|
|
Gumtree Guest House is one of the finest accommodations in Oudtshoorn, overlooking the Grobbelaars River and the historic suspension bridge. This guest house offers luxury and charm, in the shade of a century old giant gum tree.
|
|
|
|
Enjoy Karoo rural tranquility in this unique self-catering retreat set in a stunning garden with a crystal blue pool.The retreat offers 5 spacious en suite bedrooms, which can accommodate 1 - 12 guests in beautifully decorated comfort.The retreat...
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De Denne gives you tranquility, spectacular views and soul touching moments. Sunsets you'll never find elsewhere and hospitality to make you feel at home. Our accommodation comprises of 8 beautiful cottages and 5 luxury en-suite bedrooms with views...
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