GRAAFF-REINET NEWS – The hospitality and tourism industry have always been a part of Graaff-Reinet.

Since it was established in 1786, Graaff-Reinet has served as a stopover for every traveller to the interior - it was visited and described by such early travellers as Barrow, Burchell, Lichtenstein and Moffat.

Later in the mid-nineteenth century it was one of the starting points for the exodus of the Voortrekkers.

From the late eighteenth century right up to the arrival of the railway, a century later, Graaff-Reinet was a bustling trading centre, and in 1865 there were sixty-four recognised public 'outspans'. Inns were established at many of the 'outspans' for the convenience of travellers.

Today you will find a vast selection of guesthouses, bed & breakfast establishments as well as the famous Drostdy Hotel to suit your needs.

Graaff-Reinet has long been justly renowned for its attractive and well-preserved historic homes and buildings.

Graaff-Reinet boasts of several famous people, including Lord Somerset, Robert Sobukwe, Beyers Naude, Dr Anton Rupert and Anna Neethling Pohl. Robert Sobukwe’s widow still resides here, and ironically the building that once housed the Graaff-Reinet Commandos, is now named after the former Pan African Congress leader.

This September, national emphasis is placed on tourism in South Africa. 

Those who would like to find out more about special offers during this month, or those who would like to find out more about attractions they can visit and the like, can contact the Graaff-Reinet Tourism Office at 049 892 4248.

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