Somerset East Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Somerset East with this comprehensive tour guide highlighting the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay for a memorable trip to Eastern Cape, South Africa.


Introduction to Somerset East

Nestled in the Karoo Heartland of Eastern Cape, Somerset East is a quaint town surrounded by pristine natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. A visit to Somerset East promises an incredible mix of historical sites, outdoor adventures, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker, this town has plenty to offer for all kinds of travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Somerset East

Here are the top attractions and places to visit in Somerset East:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Walter Battiss Art Museum: This museum showcases the works of the famous South African artist, Walter Battiss. With a collection of over 300 artworks, including paintings, drawings, and prints, visitors can explore Battiss’s unique artistic style.
  • Old Parsonage Museum: Built-in 1819, this building is one of the oldest structures in Somerset East. The museum transports visitors back in time, telling the story of the town’s early settlers and the challenges they faced.
  • Anglo-Boer War Museum: This museum reflects on the 2nd Boer War and its impact on the town and its people.

Natural Attractions of Somerset East: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Glen Avon Falls: A picturesque waterfall located just outside town, perfect for a picnic and admiring the surrounding views.
  • Blue Crane Route: A scenic drive through the Karoo heartland, which features landscapes unique to South Africa.
  • Mountain Zebra National Park: Located just an hour’s drive from Somerset East, visitors can enjoy a safari experience and witness the majestic mountain zebras.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Somerset East

Somerset East has some fantastic hiking and biking trails that offer visitors the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area. Here are some of the top routes to hike or bike in Somerset East:

  • Bosberg Hiking Trail: A 14km circular trail that leads hikers up the Bosberg mountain, offering stunning views over the town.
  • Hunters Retreat Hiking Trail: A 5km route that takes hikers through the wilderness in the Boschberg Nature Reserve.
  • Fat Bike Trails: These trails are perfect for those looking for an off-road biking adventure. With over 100km of pristine trails, visitors can enjoy a range of terrains and magnificent views.

Best Things to Do in Somerset East: Activities and Tours

  • Anglo-Boer War Tour: Learn about the history of the town and the impact of the Anglo-Boer war on its people with this tour.
  • Fly Fishing in the Karoo: Visitors can enjoy a guided fly fishing experience in the tranquil waters of the Karoo.
  • Horseback Riding: Explore the beauty of the surrounding countryside on horseback with a guided horseback riding tour offered by local farms.

Week-Long Itinerary for Somerset East

Day 1: Explore the Old Parsonage Museum and take a stroll through the town center

Day 2: Visit the Walter Battiss Art Museum and the Anglo-Boer War Museum

Day 3: Go hiking or biking on the Bosberg Hiking Trail

Day 4: Spend the day fly fishing in the Karoo

Day 5: Take a guided horseback riding tour

Day 6: Visit the Mountain Zebra National Park for a safari experience

Day 7: Relax and enjoy a picnic at Glen Avon Falls

Food and Drink Scene of Somerset East

Must-Try Dishes

  • Karoo Lamb: A local delicacy that is not to be missed, this succulent meat is prepared in a variety of ways, from roasted leg of lamb to lamb chops.
  • Venison: Somerset East offers a range of venison dishes, including kudu and springbok.
  • Boerewors: A local sausage that is a South African favorite, and can be enjoyed at various restaurants and food markets in town.

Local Beverages

  • Wine Tasting: The nearby town of Graaff-Reinet offers the perfect opportunity for a day trip to visit some excellent wine farms.
  • Craft Beer: Several microbreweries in the area offer locally brewed beers that are both unique and delicious.

Where to Stay in Somerset East: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Cape Karoo Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located in the center of Somerset East and boasts beautifully appointed rooms, a tranquil garden, and a swimming pool.
  • Angler and Antelope: This Victorian guesthouse is perfect for those looking for a luxury stay, with elegant rooms and a gourmet restaurant.
  • Somerset Inn: A budget-friendly option, this hotel boasts comfortable rooms and a convenient location close to town center.

What to Buy in Somerset East: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Karoo Lamb: Visitors can purchase a variety of cuts of Karoo lamb to take home with them.
  • Biltong: A local favorite, biltong is a savory dried meat snack that can be found in various stores and markets in town.
  • Local Crafts: Visitors can purchase various locally made crafts, including pottery, beadwork, and wood carvings.

Local Culture and Customs of Somerset East

Somerset East is known for its friendly and welcoming community, and visitors should respect local customs and be open to learning about different cultures. The town celebrates several cultural events throughout the year, including the Somerset East Agricultural Show and the Karoo Food Festival.

Best Time to Visit Somerset East

The best time to visit Somerset East is between April and September, which is the dry season. During this time, visitors can enjoy warm days and cool nights, perfect weather for outdoor activities. The summer months, from November to March, can be very hot and humid, with occasional rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Somerset East

Do:

  • Respect local customs and cultures.
  • Go hiking or biking on the Bosberg Hiking Trail.
  • Try the Karoo lamb and other local delicacies.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the natural areas, and always follow the “leave no trace” philosophy.
  • Off-road driving is not allowed in the nature reserves or protected areas.
  • Ignore the weather conditions and always be prepared for changes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Somerset East

Somerset East is a relatively safe town, but visitors should always take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety. Don’t leave valuables in plain sight, and always be aware of your surroundings. It’s also important to follow the rules when hiking or biking, especially when in nature reserves, and to let someone know where you are going and what time you expect to return.

Health in Somerset East

Visitors should take precautions against mosquito bites, particularly during the summer months. The tap water is safe to drink, but for those who prefer filtered water, it’s available at most accommodation options and supermarkets.

Getting to Somerset East: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Somerset East

The nearest airport to Somerset East is Port Elizabeth International Airport, approximately 2.5 hours away by car. Private car hire or shuttle services are available from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Somerset East

The closest bus station is Graaff-Reinet, which is a 30-minute drive from Somerset East. Visitors can use private car hire, taxi services or arrange to be picked up by their accommodation.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car and drive themselves to Somerset East from Port Elizabeth or Johannesburg.

How to Get Around in Somerset East

The town is small enough to explore on foot, but visitors can also use bicycles or hire a private car to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Somerset East: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Graaff-Reinet: A nearby town with a remarkable historical past and unique Karoo charm.
  • Addo Elephant National Park: South Africa’s third-largest national park, home to over 600 elephants and several other African wildlife species, such as lions and buffaloes.

Conclusion

Somerset East is a hidden gem in the Karoo Heartland, offering an abundance of outdoor adventures, scenic views, and cultural attractions. The town’s friendly community welcomes visitors with open arms, making it a must-see destination in Eastern Cape, South Africa.

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