Location: South Africa » Eastern Cape » Graaff-ReinetThe Valley of DesolationGraaff-Reinet is well remembered for the Valley of Desolation. Graaff-Reinet is well remembered for the Valley of Desolation. The sheer cliff face is a geological phenomenon that is situated in the Karoo Nature Reserve. This 15 000 ha reserve surrounds the 200 year-old town of Graaff-Reinet.
The Valley of Desolation is the product of volcanic and erosive forces of nature over 100 million years. The Valley of Desolationwas declared a Scenic National Monument in 1935.
The columns of Dolerite rise 120 meters from the valley floor and in the distance the Karoo landscape stretches to the horizon. The endless space spreading out in various directions has rendered many tourists speechless. It is a mecca for hikers, photographers and students of flora and fauna.
It is a very rewarding site after the steep drive up the mountain. A circular hiking trail of 1,5km (45 minutes) starts at the car park and leads to a wonderful view of Graaff-Reinet and the endless expanse of the surrounding Karoo. This site is 17 km from town.
Late afternoon is the best time to enjoy the scenery, since the tinted sun saturates the reds of the rock towers. From the road leading to the Valley of Desolation the monument of Commandant Scheepers is visible. He was one of the Boer commando leaders during the Anglo Boer War. He was executed on the 18th of January 1902 at 15:30pm on the Murraysburg road. The monument is situated about 3km outside of town on the left-hand side of the road.
Accommodation in and around Graaff-Reinet Andries Stockenstrom Guest House accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
Set in the historic heart of Graaff-Reinet, Andries Stockenstrom is a culinaruy oasis in the vast Karoo. Personally managed by owners,Gordon & Rose Wright, who invite guests to experience true Karoo hospitality. Bedrooms are cosy and quaint with ... More
 Clifton Country House accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
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 Abbotsbury Guest Farm accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
It took 13 years for the Scotts to bring Abbotsbury to it's current level. As with all their achievements, Sue is low-key about the sheer hard work she and her husband Gordon invested and the unique skills she brings to the establishment. She... More
 Camdeboo Cottages accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
Camdeboo Cottages has a restaurant & bar, a swimming pool, secure parking and B&B or self-catering accommodation. Tours are also on offer to the nearby highlights such as the Valley of Desolation and Camdeboo National Park. Come and enj... More
 Cypress Cottage accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
Two fully restored Karoo cottages, with 3 bedrooms each, date back to the late 1800 s, and have the charm, decor and ambience of a bygone era.Lovingly refurbished, air-conditioned and furnished with antiques.Adjoining the nature reserve with lovely v... More
 Aan die Oewer B&B accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
3 Bedrooms: private entrances, en-suite bathrooms, 2 single beds, aircon, tea/coffee facilities, home baked rusks.1 Family Unit: private entrance, 2 bedrooms, shared bathroom, 5 single beds, fans, tea/coffee facilities, home baked rusks. Each well ap... More
 Casa da Arvore accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
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 Aloe Lodge accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
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 De Erf Manor House accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
THE MANOR HOUSEDe Erf Manor House has been restored and recreated to offer the best that this unique part of the Karoo can provide. About 3 km directly south of Graaff-Reinet the majestic Spandaukop towers over an almost forgotten architectural relic... More
 Five Roses Guest House accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
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