Graaff Reinet
For anyone interested in the early history of South Africa, a visit to Graaff-Reinet is essential. It was founded in the 1770's when the first of the early farmers of trekboers settled on the banks of the Sundays River. This early frontier post faced turmoil and dissention under British rule and in 1834 a large group of trekboers decided to move away thus initiating the Great Trek under the leader Andries Pretorius. Being the oldest town in the Eastern Cape this town has graceful building and a number of historical and cultural museums. It also boasts 220 proclaimed National Monuments.
Graaff-Reinet
Graaff Reinet, known as the 'Gem of the Karoo' is situated at the entrance to the awesome Valley of Desolation with its eroded dolerite and sandstone cliffs and columns and endless plains of the Great Karoo. This valley lies within the Karoo Nature Reserve with hiking trails leading through this magnificent wilderness and wildlife ecosystem.
Between Graaff-Reinet and Cradock lies the Mountain Zebra National Park where a great conservation project was initiated to save the endangered Mountain Zebra. The success of the project ensured the Mountain Zebra are relocated to other parks in the Cape to ensure survival.
Cradock
To the west of the park is the busy town of Cradock, an important agricultural centre. This town boasts a number of interesting museums and monuments and also a health Spa. Near the town is the famous 82 kilometer long Orange Fish Tunnel, the longest irrigation tunnel in the world.
Queenstown
Further west along the R61 lies the frontier town of Queenstown with its unique hexagonal low walled area originally laid out for defense of the town. This hexagon is today a beautiful garden and a national monument. The town is famous for its rose gardens and historical buildings.
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