Dating back to 1762, the charming village of Prince Albert, located on the southern edge of the Great Karoo, at the foot of the Swartberg mountains, represents a bygone era of country-living to most urban-dwelling South Africans. Its collection of Victorian, art-deco, and traditional Karoo-style architecture are nestled side-by-side along its pretty tree-lined streets. This, plus its proximity to the safari opportunities of the Karoo desert make is a popular weekend destination amongst urbanites, as well as a must-visit stop along the Garden Route. Our collection of the best places to stay in Prince Albert showcase the best in period living, in this idyllic rural setting.

Though it might be surrounded by arid countryside and harsh terrain, Prince Albert is a lush oasis in comparison, with verdant, fertile fields growing much of the region's agriculture. Producing peaches, apricots, grapes, and olives, thanks to the run-off from the mountain springs, between the harvest months of April it transforms into a foodie haven. Be sure not to miss the Olive Festival - the highlight of any Prince Albert local's calendar! Once you've finished gorging on the region's fruits, it's also a great base for exploring the surrounding Swartberg mountains, either on foot or mountain bike. Or, if that all sounds like too much exertion, the Swartberg Pass is one of South Africa's most famous drives.

What not to miss

• Every Saturday, Prince Albert's Farmer's Market showcases the best in the region's produce.
• Explore the Swartberg Nature Reserve, lying within the Oudtshoorn district between the Great Karoo and Little Karoo.
• Run by husband and wife duo, The SoetKaroo Wine Estate consists of just one hectare of land, a 'village farm' and some of the finest wine in town.
• The circular Bloukop Hiking Trail can be found near Tierberg in the Prince Albert area, on the Bloukop Mountain.
• Take home some local flavours at African Relish cooking school.
• Taking place every April, don't miss the Olive Festival, when the best olives, olive oil, and a myriad of other products are available to sample and buy.

Our collection of the best places to stay in Prince Albert showcase the best country living, for families and all ages.

The Best Places to stay in Prince Albert

For a country stay

• Beautifully appointed, antique-filled rooms, De Bergkant Lodge provides traditional Cape Dutch style accommodation in a pristine rural locale.

For a family stay

• A quirky retro stay, all ages will enjoy Wolvekraal Guest Farm, and it's priced very attractively too. With daily cycling excursions and self-catering facilities, it's a great family option.
• A collection of cosy cottages, dotted around a rugged landscape, Karoo View Cottages, is a well-priced family stay, with very attentive hosts.

For a traditional stay

• Lying right along Prince Albert's pretty high street Mont D'Or Swaberg provides a heritage stay in the heart of this quaint town.

For a boutique stay

• The very best in boutique accommodation, Prince Albert Country Stay boasts delicious home-cooked breakfasts and delightful hosts.

Travel Information

• If you want to rent self-drive to explore the Western Cape, visit our online partner Rentalcars.
• George Airport is just over two-hours drive - taxis can be booked easily.
• With a very temperate climate during the daytime, with temperatures seldom dropping below 20°C or rising above 25°C, in the winter months, between June and July especially, things can drop into single figures in the evening. The best weather can be found between December and January.

Still not sure?

• Widen the net to include our recommendations in the Western Cape, Oudtshoorn, and Calitzdorp.
• Or look at our other recommendations for the Garden Route.
• Or contact one of our gurus for advice.