Experience the Magic of Matjiesfontein: A Historic Gem in the Heart of the Karoo

Experience the enchanting allure of Matjiesfontein, a historic gem nestled in the heart of the Karoo. This small town, steeped in history, has been a sanctuary for writers like Rudyard Kipling and Olive Schreiner, who found inspiration in its stark lunar landscapes and charming Victorian architecture.

Matjiesfontein, founded in 1884 by James Douglas Logan, started as a humble railway halt. Today, it's a tranquil retreat known for its preserved personality and the Grand Dame of Victorian Architecture, The Lord Milner Hotel. This iconic hotel, completed in 1899, served as the headquarters of the Cape Western Command and has entertained distinguished guests seeking the clear, healing Karoo air.

The town's rich history is woven into its fabric. Olive Schreiner penned her famous book, “The Story of an African Farm,” here, and the village has hosted notable figures like Rudyard Kipling, Lord Randolph Churchill, and Douglas Haig. Today, Matjiesfontein continues to charm visitors with its timeless appeal, thanks to extensive renovations by David Rawdon, who purchased the village in the late 1960s. In 1979, Matjiesfontein was declared a National Historic Monument.

A visit to Matjiesfontein is a journey back in time. Just a few hours from Cape Town, this must-stop destination offers unique experiences like a ride on an old London bus, a trip on an original steam train, and the chance to savor the renowned Karoo Lamb Curry in the Victorian dining room of The Lord Milner Hotel.

Matjiesfontein, South Africa’s first health spa, is a testament to innovation. It was the first private dwelling in South Africa to have electric lighting and flushing toilets. During the Anglo-Boer War, it served as command headquarters. Its founder, James Logan, was a man of many talents—an expert photographer, an amateur magician, a dentist, a horse-breeder, a boxer, and a keen sportsman. His contributions significantly influenced the development of Cricket in South Africa.

Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat, a dose of history, or the magic of the Karoo, Matjiesfontein is a destination that promises to transport you out of reality and into daydreams.