Dennehof

Dennehof

Numerous guesthouses in this region offer a "genuine Karoo experience", but few can make the claim quite as truthfully as Dennehof. The 1835 building and its outhouses, which back onto the desert on the edge of Prince Albert, have been completely restored by the Hurfords and the results are a joy to see. The whitewashed buildings still have many of their original clay-and-straw walls, ceilings are made of poplar and reeds, and bathrooms are in keeping with the vernacular. Much of the �new� furniture, such as yellowwood doors and ancient stoves, has been sourced from old Karoo homes. And where modern methods were unavoidable, they were used sympathetically.

For example, a facsimile was made of the dairy�s crumbling clay floor so that it could be recast in cement. Guests stay in what were the dairy, wagon shed and cow shed, or self-cater in the farm-workers� cottage, now called The Olive House. Although you are accommodated "within the parameters of the desert" says Neill, warmed by stoves in winter and naturally cooled in summer, there are discreet additional comforts such as wall panel heaters and electric blankets. Lastly and importantly, the Hurfords are fascinating hosts, and Elaine has eight books about South Africa to her name. They are both hugely enthusiastic about the Karoo and guests invariably leave with similar passions. There is a little reservoir for dips in summer.

Contact Details

Telephone: +27-(0)23 5411227
Facsimile: +27-(0)23 5411158

Email address:
hurford@gem.co.za