The Olive House

Here time is not historical. The sky is a song of stars. The wind is solitary, not lonely. Every space between the vegetation and deliberate stones is a path: at once trodden and unwalked. Everything is new and timeless.

The Olive House is quintessential Karoo: quiet escapism in a setting that is unsurpassed in Prince Albert. Views into the Swartberg and the distant Karoo form the living space which is surrounded by textured farmland only a five minute walk into town.

A werf of green surrounds the lei-water-fed dam and swimming pool while beyond the werf wall indigenous Karoo-veld shrubs and grasses form the most natural of wild gardens into which three en-suite cottages disappear.

A central evaporative-cooling system is in place in the living areas and the original Olive House bedrooms while two wood-burning stoves keep guests cozy in winter. All the cottages are air-conditioned and heated. The property has an exposed dam and swimming pool and as such all children are the responsibility of their parents. We respectfully request that no children unable to swim or under five years old are allowed in either the dam or the pool.

The Olive House is fully alarmed and all linen and towels are provided. As an Occasion Country House, the kitchen is fully equipped; a scullery with dishwasher, washing machine, microwave, ice machine and drinks fridge, a deep freezer as well as a large all-purpose fridge. The galley kitchen has a large oven and gas hob with ample space to prepare happiness while staring into the distant views. There is a built-in external braai and a weber.

A quiet corner to disappear into is never far away: two long stoeps with lazy seating, the main lounge, a second lounge, the entrance hall and the pool bench drenched in birdsong at dusk and dawn. Simply cross the road and walk up the koppie into the Karoo. Here you will look down over The Olive House and Prince Albert. Keep following the path and a gentle walk takes you to Robert Gordon Koppie overlooking the town from where you can amble back through the town.

Hiking, mountain biking, birding and botanical excursions are major attractions. Aside from a superb climate, with a high sunshine index and spectacular night skies, the village itself is a small gem, with beautifully preserved Cape Dutch, Karoo and Victorian buildings. Of these, 19 are National Monuments. Prince Albert is known for its sun-ripened fresh and dried fruit, especially figs and apricots. Karoo lamb, olives, olive oil and homemade cheeses are local delicacies.