On the fringes of South Africa's Karoo in the malaria free Eastern Cape lies an interesting, attractive and historic little town which invariably charms all who visit it.
Located as it is, a short distance from the N10 main highway between Port Elizabeth and South Africa's interior as well as being on one of the main routes to Graaff-Reinet, Somerset East is both a convenient and a natural place to stop over.
Those who do stop here will not be disappointed. The town is picturesque, friendly and, being also quiet with little traffic, is easy to walk around.
For those who are interested in history, the town owes much of its early years to the British military and settlers as well as the Afrikaners who were farming the area prior to the arrival of the British. This history can be explored both in the town and the surrounding area. (The controversial Slagtersnek rebellion took place in the district).
Many of the town's houses and buildings reflect this heritage with lots of houses still standing which date from the early 1800's. A walk down Paulet Street alone is almost like a trip into the past.
The countryside around the town is quite varied with impressive mountains, rich farmland, forest and open Karoo veld, all within a short drive of the town.
There is a fine variety of accommodation in Somerset East and its surrounds, ranging from the luxurious to budget. Visitors can choose among hotels, guest houses, B&Bs and self catering establishments.The town has some of the best museums in the area, as well as some well-looked after early South African architecture. One of South Africa’s best-known artists, Walter Battis, made this his home.
There are lots of walking trails on offer in and around the Boschberg Nature Reserve to suit all types of fitness and the lovely nine-hole golf course nearby attracts golfers from afar.
Somerset East stages a successful Biltong Festival (mid-July), a Rose and Art Festival (mid-October), the Bruintjieshoogte Marathon (late April) and the Bruintjieshoogte Cycle Tour (end March) to the village of Pearston and back.
- Boschberg Nature Reserve
- Biltong Festival in mid July
- Bruintjieshoogte Marathon in April
- Bruintjieshoogte cycle tour
- Loads of history!
Hiding away in the Boschberg Mountains, this historic town used to be a key agricultural food source for the 1820 Settlers.
The Cape governor at the time, Lord Charles Somerset, bought a farm below the Boschberg and, for more than 10 years, it supplied both the military and civilians of the area with livestock and victuals.
Part of that old farm is now one of the leading heritage assets around Somerset East. Glen Avon Farm, still owned by Settler descendants, has been lovingly preserved and restored, and now offers accommodation, interesting walking trails and good fly-fishing pools.
