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
 Camdeboo Manor accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
It is not often that one gets the opportunity to luxuriate in the tranquility of the Karoo countryside knowing that the town centre of Graaff-Reinet is a brief 5 minute drive away. Stephen & Liesl created Camdeboo Manor so that you could experien... More
 Manor at Samara - Samara Private Game Reserve accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
Since opening in 2005 Samara Private Game Reserve has built its name as an outstanding and dedicated South African conservation destination where guests can enjoy the most magnificent Karoo landscapes and be treated to exceptional service, kick back ... More
 Karoo Lodge - Samara Private Game Reserve accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
Surrounded by a natural amphitheatre of mountains, Karoo Lodge sits in perfect serenity with the reserve’s pristine wilderness. Combining colonial comforts with the essence of Mother Nature, the lodge treats you with exceptional service, meanin... More
 Kambro Cottages accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
Kambro Cottages, offers the following: • A national monument acting as a self-contained holiday cottage • Own kitchen, bathroom and outside entrance • Secure parking • Breakfast by arrangement • Centrally situated in the town... More
 Schanskraal Country Manor accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
Be spoilt by our renowned Karoo hospitality all day. Take a trip into the past and visit the library/sitting room filled with tales of the Karoo and South African history.Experience fine cuisine in the lavish dining room, prepared in the well-equippe... More
 Stemar Self-Catering accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
STEMAR SELF CATERING GUEST HOUSE was founded in 1997 as part of the growing tourism industry in Graaff - Reinet, ... More
Merwede accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
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 Villa Reinet Guest House accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
Villa Reinet is a charming national monument building. Inside this building two rooms are offered as comfortable accommodation. One, the Studio, air conditioned and en suite, with a queen size extra length bed, a romantic bathing area, a fire place, ... More
Obesa Lodge SC accommodation in Graaff-Reinet
It is this simple philosophy that pervades the entire lodge. Each of Obesa's accommodation units has been decorated according to various themes that have captured Sonja's imagination and creativity. She clearly has had a lot of fun furnishing... More
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