Geography Beaufort West, the "Capital of the Karoo", is situated at the foot of the Nuweveld Mountains. Sometimes referred to as the "Oasis of the Karoo", it is a typical platteland town and a great spot for an overnight stop on the N1 route if you are travelling between Gauteng and the Cape. The town lies roughly 940km from Johannesburg and about 470km from Cape Town.History Beaufort West is the oldest town in the Central Karoo, and was founded in 1818 on the farm Hooivlakte at the request of Lord Charles Somerset. He named it after his father, the fifth Duke of Beaufort. Today, this peaceful town is quite a busy distribution centre for the central Karoo area, and is one of the largest sheep farming regions in South Africa. Arts and Culture The Beaufort West Museum complex is housed in the old mission church, parsonage and old Town Hall, and all three historic buildings are provincial heritage sites. The parsonage was once the home of one of South Africa's favourite sons, the late Professor Chris Barnard, and in the old Town Hall there is a collection of his awards, honorary degrees, diplomas and gifts received from around the world after he performed the very first heart transplant. The mission church building houses an interesting depiction of the town's history.Science Beaufort West has an interesting and varied climate. While it may snow in winter, it is generally cold and dry, and summer is usually hot with sporadic thunderstorms. The town is 851m above sea level. Just south of Beaufort West is the ecologically diverse Karoo National Park, which makes for a fascinating outing if you have a few hours to spare.Entertainment There is so much to do in Beaufort West! Some activities include horseback-riding, river rafting, hiking, mountain biking, bird-watching and paragliding. There is also a leaflet available from the Tourism Bureau called 'A stroll through our town', which guides the visitor on a short walking tour through the town's highlights. Did You KnowIn 1837 Beaufort West became the first municipality to be proclaimed in South Africa.
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Hiking Trails in Beaufort West, Western Cape, South Africa |
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 | Karoo National Park
AA Eco
Hiking Trails in Beaufort West, Western CapeCape Dutch-style cottages and chalets set in the heart of the majestic Karoo landscape, just outside Beaufort West. All accommodation is serviced daily and equipped with bedding, towels and soap. Two units for the mobility impaired. Award-winning camping and caravan sites with communal ablution and kitchen facilities. |  | Taaiboschfontein Karoo Accommodation
AA Highly Recommended
Hiking Trails in Beaufort West, Western CapeTaaiboschfontein is a Karoo sheep farm which is part of the Kromriver Rabbit conservancy situated at the foothills of the Nuweveld Mountains. 14km off the N1 in the Three Sisters region. We cater for the overnight visitor and for those who want to spend a day or two in the Karoo. Double rooms and family rooms with en suite or shared facilities. |  | Olive Grove Guest Farm
AA Superior
Hiking Trails in Beaufort West, Western CapeOlive Grove Guest Farm offers a beautiful and peaceful experience. Accommodation consists of 7 luxury, self-catering chalets and 5 stylish suites. Ideal for the discerning traveller looking for safety, Karoo cuisine, cleanliness and affordable luxury. The warmth of our welcome can always be felt. |  | Lemoenfontein Game Lodge
AA Superior
Hiking Trails in Beaufort West, Western CapeSet in the heart of the Karoo, with the Nuweveld Range forming a backdrop against the panoramic view of Beaufort West and vast Karoo plains, lies Lemoenfontein. En suite bedrooms leading onto wide verandahs. Day and night game drives, abundant bird life, hiking, 4x4 trails and classic country cuisine. |  | Matoppo Inn
AA Superior
Hiking Trails in Beaufort West, Western CapeMatoppo aan de Wagenweg is a beautifully restored drostdy building, dating back
to the 17th century and is situated within a sprawling, lush garden estate in the heart
of the Karoo. This guest house is an urban sanctuary with a romantic heritage, a unique
sense of style and a commitment to service excellence.
Whether travelling through the Karoo for business or leisure, Matoppo Inn is an elegant
oasis which offers luxurious accommodation in the peace and serenity of a spacious
Karoo environment.
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