LOCATION | HISTORY | THE PEOPLE | SHOPS

LOCATION
Prince Albert is situated only 44 kms off the main N1 highway in an easterly direction on the Prince Albert Road (R407). Prince Albert is considered the gateway to the breathtaking Swartberg Mountains, the famed Swartberg Pass, the sundrenched Karoo Plains and the temperate regions of the Garden Route.

The serene beauty of the vast Karoo plains and the magnificent mountain formations remain unequalled as you wind your way to this picturesque and very interesting town. Prince Albert is a "must do" on anyone's itinerary and can be easily accessed from the Garden Route (N2), Route62 or the highway (N1).

Strategically positioned, Prince Albert remains the most ideal base from where you can explore the marvels of this most unique and interesting region in South Africa.

HISTORY
It is well documented that Bushmen were the earliest inhabitants of Prince Albert as relics and remains of the Bushmen culture are evident throughout the region e.g. Bushmen Rock Paintings.

The town of Prince Albert lies on one of the first "loan farms" which was made available in 1762 in the district. The original loan farm on which Prince Albert is now established was allocated to Zacharias De Beer who established fruit orchards, vineyards and wheatfields in the fertile soil of the region. With an abundance of water, crops were bountiful and soon the "farm" became a stopover for travellers and explorers needing refreshment and a resting place during their long treks through the mountains and plains of the Karoo.

A Dutch Reformed Church parish was established in the town during 1842 when Prince Albert was known as Albertsberg. Legend has it that the village was officially named Prince Albert in honour of Queen Victoria's husband.

There are in the region of 17 buildings, amongst these the Dutch Reformed Church and hall, the Albert's Mill, Dutch Reformed Church Parsonage which have received national monument status thus preserving the heritage and fine architecture of Prince Albert.

PEOPLE
The folk of Prince Albert are renowned for their unequalled hospitality and kindness. The residents of the town delight in sharing anecdotes and history of the town and its people. Spend a day strolling the village streets on a guided tour or at your leisure and you are bound to bump into a local who will eagerly share the town's interesting history and happenings.

SHOPS
There are several appealing and unique little shops to be found on Church Street and just off Church Street. Well known for the finest mohair and hand woven pure wool garments, blankets and carpets. You will surely find an item to suite your pocket.

The local Guernsey dairy supplies the town with delicious home-made cheeses, fresh yoghurt, milk and cream.

Buy fresh local produce, jams, preserves, olives, olive oil, sundried figs and much more at the local market held on each Saturday.

There is an amply stocked chemist store in the village. Personnel will gladly arrange medication etc for you should they not have a specific item in stock.

Don't forget to pack in extra film and batteries for your cameras which you are sure to run out of due to ample photo opportunities in and around Prince Albert.