Tranquil Gem
Turn west of the N9 and you will discover the gateway to the Klein Karoo: a gem of a dorp by the name of De Rust which, according to the locals “has neither ‘rust’ nor rat race, and just about no crime, to boot.” The main street is quaintly Victorian and meanders past the southern entrance to Meiringspoort if you’re in the mood for some back-road exploration.
A typical Klein Karoo atmosphere prevails, with unhurried hospitality and strangers greeting you as you pass by ambling between the various eateries, art galleries, craft shops and general dealers. De Rust was actually in danger of becoming a ghost town a few decades ago, but out-of-towners suddenly realised its beauty and potential and have since flocked in to buy property.
The area, though occasionally dusty and hot during summer, boasts a near endless summer with glorious winter days, although the chill factory does kick in at night.
Did You Know: De Rust came out tops in the annual Rapport/Kyknet Town of the Year (for both South Africa and Namibia) in 2011.
De Rust is a refined Victorian village in South Africa and home to the blueblood Ostrich, golden vineyards, sundrenched orchards, excellent ...
De Rust is known for its production of excellent red and white wines. With grapes grown in the fertile soils of the Swartberg mountains, it...