As the first farm and gateway to the greater Karoo, Karoo 1 Hotel Village is the perfect stopover to create an exceptional Karoo experience. I was very fortunate to be part of a Hexcursion with Hex Valley Tourism and explore what this side of the world has to offer. I was blown away!
Situated along the N1 between De Doorns and Touws rivier is where you would find this peaceful place, rich in history. A place to settle and unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life. There is no better place from which to take in the beauty of the Karoo. An ultimate Karoo retreat.
If you have never been to the Karoo before like me, then the highlight is definitely the magnificent view of millions and millions of stars revealed in the blackness of the Karoo night sky. To be able to see the Milky Way in all its glory will leave you speechless.
LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY
The original buildings on the farm date back to 1756. For many fortune-seekers of the late 1860’s, Karoo 1 was a welcome stopover on their long journey to the newly discovered diamond mines in Kimberley.
Already at that time, the farm was known for its hospitality and good food. It was their ‘karbonaatjie’, a generous portion of wholesome ‘padkos’ or lunch pack, that earned the farm its former name of ‘Karbonaatjieskraal’.
The farm was the first in the Karoo coming from De Doorns, hence its current name ‘Karoo 1’. The karbonaatjie may have disappeared, but hospitality remains key at Karoo 1.
WHAT’S TO OFFER
Karoo 1 Hotel Village is a true village and offers luxury accommodation, with its own wedding chapel, conference facilities, gym and an outdoor pool to soak up the Karoo sun. Also various outdoor activities are available such as game watching, mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing. Complimentary breakfast is served daily.
On-site is also a country style licensed restaurant and an African theme bar to enjoy a satisfying meal and drinks to quench the thirst.
The best part of this place is just a few metres away from the hotel. Hidden in the beautiful kloof is a rock pool and it’s totally natural. It greets you with a backdrop of rustic, simplistic beauty of the kloof. It is secluded and the perfect spot for a picnic or sunset drinks, whilst taking a dip in the pool.
It’s true what they say that the Karoo soothes the soul. It frees you from a busy stressful lifestyle – well even if it’s just for a moment. A place where it feels like time doesn’t exist. It was a memorable experience and thank you to Karoo1 Hotel Village for giving us the opportunity to stay over and experience this wonderful world. I will definitely be back!
INFO & BOOKINGS:
Hotel Enquiries: info@karoo1.com
Reservations: bookings@karoo1.com
Call: 023 358 2131