Prince Albert - Western Cape

Mai's Guest Lodge ~ Prince Albert

Prince Albert is a peaceful village in the Karoo. The mountains which shelter the village provide spring water which has created this little oasis. The climate is superb, with sunshine nearly every day and spectacular night skies. The village has beautifully preserved Cape Dutch, Karoo and Victorian buildings, the streets are wide and there is little traffic. There are a number of coffee shops and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine. Prince Albert is known for its sun-ripened fresh and dried fruit, especially figs and apricots. In the Prince Albert Valley, to the south of the village, farmers have restored vineyards last farmed in the 19th century. Karoo lamb, olives, olive oil and cheese are local delicacies.
A market is held every Saturday where organic fruit and vegetables, fresh baked bread, homemade jams and pickles are sold. In April the Prince Albert Olive Festival offers a street market, delicious food, live music, children’s theatre, art exhibitions, open homes and gardens, cooking demonstrations, a half marathon, cycle race and lots more. Bergwater wineries lie to the south of the village in the Prince Albert Valley. On your way there you'll pass the Alberts Mill with its restored wheel and millrace.
A short drive takes you to the start of the Swartberg Pass. Prince Albert is the perfect base for exploring all the wonders of the Swartberg including Gamkaskloof - "the Hell" and Meiringspoort.

Prince Albert is well situated for overnight stops from Gauteng, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. The Garden Route resorts and beaches are just two hours away. Oudtshoorn, the Cango Caves and the Karoo National Park can be reached in a little over an hour.

home accommodation lots to do Prince Albert contact Mai rates thanks to Sheila Coutouvidis for the photographs on this page