Grahamstown Overview
With a large university, some of South Africa’s top schools and a plethora of museums and other cult
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In and Around
Grahamstown
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Author: Samantha Black
Submitted: 05 May 2009
With a large university, some of South Africa’s top schools and a plethora of museums and other cultural attractions, Grahamstown is a rather erudite destination. It’s also the venue of the National Festival of the Arts, which is the second largest arts festival in the world, coming in just behind Edinburgh. Of Grahamstown’s numerous lovely old buildings, many of which are national monuments, the one that – literally – stands out is the magnificent Cathedral of St Michael and St George, which forms a focal point at the top of High Street. The more academic of the many museums in Grahamstown include the Observatory Museum, which has the only genuine Victorian Camera Obscura in the southern hemisphere, the National English Literary Museum, the Library of African Music and – rather unusually considering its inland position – the SA Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, where you can see exhibits relating to the coelacanth – the fossil fish that was thought to be extinct but still lives off the South African coast. Grahamstown’s position on the 19th century frontier between the British colonialists and the Xhosa tribes, has contributed to its interesting history. And the culture of rebellion that was forged in the Frontier Wars was brought to bear during the 20th century to the extent that Grahamstown was one of the major centres of resistance to the apartheid regime. Local historians offer insightful tours of the area, highlighting seminal moments in South Africa’s history. Grahamstown has a decent golf course and it is very close to one of the newest golf resorts in South Africa – the Gary Player-designed Bushman Sands in the interesting and unusual town of Alicedale. There is good climbing near the town, a skydiving club and – less than an hour’s drive away – good surfing at Port Alfred. There are numerous excellent game viewing destinations within an hour’s drive of Grahamstown.
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Grahamstown aerial
© Alan Stephenson
© South African Tourism
© Alan Stephenson
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Accommodation near Grahamstown
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A Stone's Throw Bed and Breakfast and self-cater accommodation, offers warm Eastern Cape hospitality in the heart of Frontier Country, Grahamstown. Freedom is a Stone's Throw Away ... Stunning Sunsets ... Country Garden Setting ... Spectacular View ... Bird Lover's delight ... Scenic Walks ... Welcome atmosphere.
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10% discount
see terms & conditions
Two nights mid-week stay receive complimentary breakfasts. Subject to normal terms and conditions of reservation and availability.
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A professionally run Guesthouse with the best service and all the comforts you will ever need while away from home! A very relaxed atmosphere with genuine Eastern-Cape Hospitality!! Our lifestyle and motto is "Nothing is impossible or too much trouble for our guests"!!
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Self-Catering, Guest House, 6 sleeper, 3 stars, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, two lounges, games room, travel agency service, family friendly
We are now able to offer extra 2 beds making it 8 sleeper although we prefer to market the house as a 6 sleeper.
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Situated in a quiet setting just off the N2, Coombs Lodge is an eight bed, self-catering, stone and thatch bush lodge. The Lodge is nestled in amongst Eastern Cape valley-bushveld and teems with a variety of bird species and small game.
The Lodge takes same party bookings only.
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Centrally situated, historical property. En-suite bathrooms, heated towel rails, air conditioning, satellite television, tea/coffee facilities, hairdryers and digital safes. Elegant lounge, patio and swimming pool, on-site beauty clinic and secure off-street parking.
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Visit us in the beautiful nature of Manley Flats and enjoy delicious food and comfortable accommodation in unique cottages. Watch our zebras and springbok from closeby.
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