Somerset East

Eastern Cape Holiday Town

Somerset East is a charming Eastern Cape holiday town with a peaceful countryside atmosphere. It was laid out on the banks of the Little Fish River in 1825 and named after Governor Lord Charles Somerset.

The town of Somerset East is known for beautiful oak trees that line the streets.

Situated below the Boschberg Mountain, the town lies at the centre of a productive sheep and angora farming district. 

Somerset East is home to several fine examples of Georgian buildings, among them the Old Officers' Mess, built in 1815. The town is known for its whitewashed cottages, rose-filled gardens and streets lined with oak trees. 

Visitors to Somerset East in South Africa, are spoiled for choice with a number of comfortable accommodation options, as well as numerous activities and places of interest to visit.

History of Somerset East

The Somerset East Museum holds numerous artifacts and memorabilia from the founding days of the town, and there are numerous historic buildi...more

Mountain Biking in Somerset East

You will find Somerset East sheltering at the foot of Boschberg Mountain, a green oasis upon the edge of the vast Karoo....more

Somerset East Historical Architectures

The historic town of Somerset East is situated along the local Blue Crane Tourism Route, traversing the edge of the arid Karoo region....more