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Mai's Guest Lodge ~ Prince Albert

The village of Prince Albert, South Africa

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.

Homemade jams and tasty treats at the Saturday MarketA market is held every Saturday where organic fruit and vegetables, fresh baked bread, homemade jams and pickles are sold.  

In April the Prince Albert Town and 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.

The annual Oktoberfest brings visitors from around the country to raise a glass to HRH Prince Albert, consort to Queen Victoria, after whom the village is named.

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. 

The Swartberg Pass offers spectacular scenery

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.

~ A local blessing ~

May the embers from the open hearth warm your hands,
May the sun's rays from the Karoo sky warm your face,
May children's bright smiles warm your heart,
May the love of friends warm your soul.  

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thanks to Sheila Coutouvidis for the photographs on this page