Referred to as the “Gem of the Karoo”, Graaff-Reinet is situated at the foot of the majestic Sneeuberg Mountains, in a horseshoe bend of the Sundays River. Most of the residential property in Graaff-Reinet is located on large plots, allowing for the cultivation of large gardens. Due to its lush vegetation, the town provides a sharp contrast to the semi-arid vastness of the Karoo. The town is located in a valley surrounded by the Camdeboo National Park, which is rich in wildlife. Property for sale in Graaff-Reinet mainly consists of free-standing family homes, modern apartments and estate units. 

Graaff-Reinet is the fourth oldest town in South Africa and with over 220 heritage sites, boasts more registered historic buildings than any other town in the country. Its old world-charm is evident in the beautiful architecture: Cape Dutch, Georgian, Victorian and Karoo style residences decorate the streets. Its friendly residents and unique location – it’s the only town virtually enclosed by a protected area – makes for a wonderful environment in which to raise a family while the flats for sale in Graaff-Reinet are perfect for young professionals. The town also has a large agricultural community and farm stays are popular amongst tourists who wish to escape the city and unwind under the beautiful Karoo night sky. Farms for sale in Graaff-Reinet include plains game and sheep farms, as well as mountainous retreats and mixed farming with both game and livestock. Take a look at the available houses in Graaff-Reinet below and explore more of this picturesque region. 

Explore Graaff-Reinet

Sightseeing and museums

Sightseeing and museums

The town has five extraordinary museums, which hold collections of photographic memorabilia, firearms, artworks and fossils tracing the history of the Karoo. Day trips to the surrounding areas include Nieu Bethesda, Murraysburg or Richmond - Africa’s Book Town.

Nature’s finest

Nature’s finest

The area is surrounded by a number of parks and game reserves. The premier visitor attraction in the Camdeboo National Park is the Valley of Desolation, which offers a wonderful view of piled dolerite columns set against the backdrop of the renowned Camdeboo Plains. The park also boasts unparalleled game viewing in the wetland areas, three hiking trails, two 4x4 routes and campsites.

Sport and recreation

Sport and recreation

The Botanics Sports Club offers cricket, tennis, badminton, squash, racing pigeons and road running. The Graaff-Reinet Bowling Club hosts social bowls twice a week. Other clubs include nature, garden, bird and horse and are as popular as adventure sports and hunting. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at one of South Africa’s Top 10 nine-hole golf courses.

Dining out

Dining out

The town offers restaurants, coffee shops, pubs, cigar bars, fast food chains and historic venues for celebrating special occasions such as the Drostdy Hotel. Many menus feature fine local venison and lamb – classic Karoo cuisine.

Living in Graaff-Reinet

Areas near to Graaff-Reinet

Adelaide, Alicedale, Bedford, Boknes and Cannon Rocks, East London, Fort Beaufort, Gqeberha, Jeffreys Bay, Kariega (Uitenhage), Karoo, Kenton on Sea, Makhanda, Port Alfred, Riebeeck East, St Francis Bay,

Education

Property for sale in Graaff-Reinet is well suited to families as there are five secondary schools located in the town of which Union High School and Hoër Volkskool are the best known. Both these schools offer pre-primary and primary phases of schooling as well as the full suite of sporting and extra-mural activities with a day or boarding option for students. The town has three tertiary education institutions, namely the SA College for Tourism, East Cape Midlands College and the Graaff-Reinet Police Academy.
 

Healthcare

Graaff-Reinet is home to two medical practices, the Midlands Hospital and an array of specialists, including chiropractors, physiotherapists and reflexologists. The town also has three pharmacies and two veterinary practises. 

Shopping

Retailers such as Shoprite, Spar, Truworths and Mr Price can be found, as well as a variety of shops specialising in local Karoo produce: leather, wool and mohair.

Travel

  • While the local airport has a 1,5km surfaced airstrip, the closest international airport is located in Port Elizabeth, 250km away. The town is easily accessible from all major routes.

For example Camps Bay or Mauritius