Things to do in the Western Cape's Prince Albert

Prince Albert is a quaint town located on the southern edge of the Great Karoo. It boasts marvellous views from the foot of the Swartberg Mountains. This historic town is home to many artists and crafters known to be the friendliest people in the Karoo. Known as the "jewel of the Karoo", the town showcases beautiful preserved Victorian, Karoo, and Cape Dutch buildings.

If you plan to visit the town you will find yourself in awe of the fascinating experiences on offer. The crisp clean air and star-filled skies will make your days at Prince Albert unforgettable. Visiting from Cape Town will take you 4 hours and a 30-minute drive.

Here are some of the exciting things you can do in Prince Albert:

• Learn about history at Fransie Pienaar Museum

If you have an interest in history then a visit to the Fransie Pienaar Museum is a must when you are in Prince Albert. The museum is known for its fascinating displays. Here you can see one of the worlds largest fossil collections. If you need any assistance about the area, the museum doubles as the local tourist information centre.

The museum is named after Fransie Pienaar. She started collecting antiques which grew to fill a hall donated by the Dutch Reformed Church. She was then loaned a house by the council. The museum's collection still grows today as Prince Albert inhabitants continue to donate pieces of art.

• Go on an adventure at Swartberg Pass

If you seek an adventure in Prince Albert then the Swartberg Pass is exactly where you will find it. It offers spectacular views and unrivalled natural beauty. The mountain's unique micro-climate supports the growth of beautiful fynbos. You are also likely to see proteas, ericas, and pincushions here. 

Birdlife here is magnificent with birders coming from far to get a peek at the Verreaux's eagles and jackal buzzards. The Cape rock jumper, Victorian's warbler, as well as Cape Sugarbirds are even spotted here. If you are lucky then you might even spot the antelopes Cape Grysbok, Common Duiker, and Klipspringer.

• Wine tasting at the SoetKaroo Wine Estate

The Western Cape is famous for its wine. Great vintners stretch to the heart of Prince Albert. Here, the husband and wife team, Herman and Susan Perold live and make their decadent wine from their own grapes. The SoetKaroo Wine Estate consists of just one hectare of land and is the only SAWIS registered wine estate in the Great Karoo. Here you can visit the vineyard or cellar and get a chance to taste the wine.

• Sample a variety of cheeses

Did you ever wonder how cheese was made? A visit to Gay's Guernsey Dairy will give you an interesting look at dairy farming in Prince Albert. You will even get the opportunity to sample some of the cheese that the award-winning team produces. All Gay's cheeses are produced from unpasteurised milk. What's more is that they are guaranteed free of hormones, antibiotics, colouring, additives and preservatives.

If you want to take something back home you can purchase milk, amasi, fat-free yoghurts, or a selection of feta cheese.

• Discover the town's skeletons on a Ghost Walk

Not afraid of ghosts? Then Prince Albert's popular Ghost Walk is just for you. A guide will take you on a pre-dinner walk around the streets of the village - in the company of the Ghosts of Prince Albert. Scared yet? The walk begins as the sun sets and the skies become darker. You will hear stories about those who have lived in the town over the years - and the ghosts who don't want to leave!

The tour guides and locals are always willing to share their knowledge about the town, succulents and fynbos, ghosts, and history. Contact Knight Frank today if you would like to invest in the jewel of the Karoo. 

Image: Les Jacobs