As a family, we love going away, albeit a lot harder when there are kids involved. Karla’s Top Pick for July features the stunning Prince Albert in the Karoo. I love small towns and Prince Albert has been at the top of my bucket list for a long time.
Nestled in the heart of the majestic Karoo, Prince Albert is a hidden gem offering an array of experiences for every traveller. This July, I had the pleasure of exploring this charming town while staying at the Vrisch Gewagt Boutique Self-Catering Olive Farm. Here are my top picks for a memorable visit to Prince Albert.
Staying at Vrisch Gewagt Boutique Self-Catering Olive Farm
Vrisch Gewagt is a delightful blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. This boutique self-catering olive farm is the perfect retreat for those looking to unwind and immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the Karoo. Surrounded by rolling hills and olive groves, the farm offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The accommodations at Vrisch Gewagt are cosy and well-appointed, featuring all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. The fully-equipped kitchen allows guests to prepare their own meals, adding a personal touch to the experience. There is also an abundance of wood – it was so cold when we were there, we had the fire going from 8am to 10 pm daily and didn’t even make a dent. You can also order meat from the farm to cook ahead of time. The meat was exceptional. I would go back just based on that alone!
I highly recommend taking a leisurely stroll around the farm to soak in the breath taking views. There are cows, horses, pigs, and sheep on the farm and we got to watch a cow get milked. My daughter was fascinated, to say the least.
Dining at Jeremy’s Restaurant
A trip to Prince Albert would be incomplete without a visit to Jeremy’s Restaurant. The open kitchen is stunning – its a super modern concept for a small town. Known for its exquisite cuisine and warm ambiance, Jeremy’s offers a dining experience that is both delightful and unforgettable. The menu is a testament to the rich flavour’s of the Karoo, with dishes prepared using locally-sourced ingredients. It’s tapas style, so great for sharing. The highlight meal for me were the chicken wings! Also the bar looks so inviting – if it wasn’t for having the children there, I can see we would have stayed all night. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking for a great place to eat, Jeremy’s Restaurant is a must-visit.
Scones at The Lazy Lizard
For a more laid-back experience, head over to The Lazy Lizard. This quaint café is renowned for its delicious scones, which are the perfect accompaniment to a leisurely afternoon. The Lazy Lizard exudes a cosy charm, making it an ideal spot to relax with a cup of tea and a freshly-baked scone. If you know me well enough – you would know that scones are my favourite and I’m on a mission to find the best scones ever.
A Visit to Gay’s Dairy
One of the highlights of my trip was a visit to Gay’s Dairy. This local dairy is unique in that it offers non-pasteurized milk, a rarity in today’s market. The milk is rich and creamy, reminiscent of the days when dairy products were made with care and attention to detail.
Gay’s Dairy also offers personalized tours, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the dairy’s operations. I had the opportunity to learn about the cheese-making process, from the milking of the cows to the aging of the cheese. The tour concluded with a delightful cheese tasting, where I sampled a variety of cheeses, each more delicious than the last.
Another charming activity at Gay’s Dairy is collecting eggs from the chicken coop. This hands-on experience is perfect for families and anyone interested in farm life. There’s something incredibly satisfying about gathering fresh eggs and knowing that they’ll soon be part of a wholesome meal.
The chickens at Gay’s Dairy are well-cared for and roam freely, producing high-quality eggs with rich, golden yolks. This activity provided a deeper appreciation for the simple joys of farm life and the effort that goes into producing fresh, quality ingredients.
We finished the tour at the farm shop where you can go wild! The food is unbelievable and honestly this place is a goldmine.
We were only there for 2 nights before heading to St Francis Bay for the week. We drove through the Swartberg pass. I have never driven this road before and it was honestly one of the most beautiful roads I have ever been on.
Prince Albert is a destination that offers a wealth of experiences, from the luxurious comfort of Vrisch Gewagt Boutique Self-Catering Olive Farm to the culinary delights of Jeremy’s Restaurant and The Lazy Lizard. The unique charm of Gay’s Dairy, with its non-pasteurized milk and hands-on activities, adds to the allure of this quaint town. If you’re looking for a place to unwind and explore, Prince Albert should be at the top of your list this July.