305km north of Port Elizabeth lies Nieu Bethesda; a little town that has retained its historical charm and has shunned modern technology and systems.
The town does not even have a bank, let alone credit card facilities or petrol station.
Arid, unspoiled grassland surrounds the town, which features some beautiful old buildings, such as the white Dutch Reformed Church building that was inaugurated in 1905.
The Owl House museum is Nieu Bethesda’s best-known attraction, with its garden full of statues (the Camel Yard) that were created by Helen Martins, the lady who inspired Athol Fugard’s play, The Road to Mecca.
HOW TO GET HERE
The nearest airport to Nieu Bethesda is Port Elizabeth, a four-hour drive away. To reach Nieu Bethesda, explorers should follow the signs from the N9 between Aberdeen and Middelberg.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The Owl House is open every day of the year except December 25.
LENGTH OF STAY
You can easily complete the Owl Route in one day, but stay at least one night to get a feel for the area.
WHAT TO PACK
There are no banks or cash machines in Nieu Bethesda, so take enough money with you. There is also no petrol station in the town, so fill up before arriving.
WHERE TO STAY
There is self-catering accommodation in Nieu Bethesda – see listed website for details.
WHAT TO EAT
True hearty Karoo food at the Karoo Lamb, and a good ploughman's lunch at the Two Goats Deli.
- Marvel at the Owl House.
- Cycle the Owl Route.
- Sample the local produce sold at the farmers' markets.
- Sneeuberg brewery and cheeses.
- Learn about the fossils and look for more in the Gats river.
- Explore the ancient water mill.
- Nieu Bethesda has an annual arts festival and regular.
- Take a donkey cart ride around the town.
- Buy some original ceramics.
Nieu Bethesda, a small rural town 305km north of Port Elizabeth, was established in the 1870s by a group of innovative farmers, led by BJ Pienaar, who established the farm Uitkyk ('Lookout').
