By Gugulethu Tshabalala
Nestled at the foothills of the majestic Swartberg Mountains, between Oudtshoorn and Meiringspoort, lies De Rust — a town that perfectly captures the tranquillity of the Klein Karoo. With its mix of mountain views, farm-fresh food, restored heritage buildings, and authentic local charm, De Rust isn’t just a stop along the N12; it’s a destination worth planning your next getaway around.
A Town with Heart and History
Founded in the early 1900s, De Rust has long been a place of rest for travellers journeying between the coast and the interior. Today, it still carries that same welcoming energy but with a new generation of locals breathing life into its historic streets. At the centre of town, Hotel De Rust has been lovingly restored by Werner and Bernadette Alberts, who brought back a piece of family history. Their revived bar, About Time, is a local favourite, offering a glimpse of what’s to come as the hotel reawakens as a modern-day Karoo classic.
Flavours of the Klein Karoo
If you love food that tells a story, De Rust delivers. Along the main road, Schoeman Street, you’ll find Pluim Eatery, a laid-back café where the brinjal sandwiches and vegan burgers are local legends.
Café De Rust serves hearty Karoo meals made with seasonal ingredients, while The Grumpy Goat and The Rusty Nail provide the perfect spots for sundowners and social chatter. For something unique to take home, stop by the Route 62 Wine Shop for a bottle of Klein Karoo wine or locally pressed olive oil.
You can even visit De Rustica Olive Estate, one of South Africa’s most awarded olive producers, just a short drive from town, for tastings and a behind- the-scenes look at olive oil making.
Adventure Between the Passes
De Rust is perfectly positioned for those who love scenic drives and nature escapes. To the north, Meiringspoort Pass cuts through dramatic sandstone cliffs and crystal streams —an easy drive with several picnic stops and viewpoints.
To the south, the legendary Swartberg Pass offers a more adventurous gravel route, climbing 1,583 metres above sea level and rewarding travellers with sweeping views over the valleys below. Both routes are ideal for photographers, hikers, and road trippers seeking the raw beauty of the Karoo.
Nature, Stillness, and Starry Skies
De Rust may be small, but it sits at the edge of one of the world’s most biodiverse regions, the Cape Floral Kingdom. Wander through fields of spekboom and aloe ferox, spot wild bees in the riverbeds, or simply enjoy the crisp, dry air that defines the Karoo landscape. When night falls, the lack of city lights reveals a breathtaking night sky. Stargazing here feels almost sacred, every constellation vivid and every moment unhurried.
Sip, Stay, and Slow Down
De Rust is part of the Klein Karoo Wine Route, known for its characterful wines and warm hospitality. Make time to xplore nearby Calitzdorp, home to the award-winning Boplaas and De Krans wineries. Pair your tastings with a lazy lunch and you’ve got the perfect day out.
Back in De Rust, accommodation options range from charming guesthouses and farm stays to self-catering cottages that capture the area’s peaceful spirit. Whether you’re after a rustic escape or a romantic weekend away, this town invites you to take it slow.
Why You Should Go
De Rust isn’t about rushing from one attraction to another; it’s about savouring the experience. It’s where time slows, locals wave from porches, and the beauty of the Karoo unfolds at its own pace. If you’re looking for an authentic South African getaway filled with warm people, delicious food, and mountain air that resets the soul — make De Rust your next road trip stop.
Getting There:
De Rust lies about 35 km east of Oudtshoorn along the N12, and roughly 5 hours’ drive from Cape Town.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring and autumn bring mild weather, blooming landscapes, and ideal conditions for xploring the surrounding passes.
