Okiep Country Hotel

Imagine driving into Okiep, a serene town nestled in the heart of the Northern Cape. As I checked into the Okiep Country Hotel, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). There was an air of anticipation – a sense that I was about to experience something truly special.

The hotel's lounge area was like stepping back in time, adorned with vintage photos and insightful information about the mining era that once thrived here. And then there were the books, more than I could have hoped to read during my stay. What added to the charm was an old-school arcade-style game, a delightful surprise located right in the ladies' bar. It proved to be more entertaining than I could have imagined.

The ladies' bar had an inviting ambiance, and it was the perfect place to unwind with a few drinks. Dinner was exceptional; I opted for the Lambs Neck, and it was a culinary masterpiece. The night took an even more enchanting turn during half-time of a thrilling rugby world cup match, as we sipped on our Dom Pedros and the owner, a true historian of the mining era, regaled us with captivating stories about the mining boom of the late 1800s. It was a delightful blend of history and hospitality that added an extra layer of richness to our evening.

The following morning, before embarking on the road back to Stellenbosch, we were treated to a breakfast buffet that exceeded all expectations. It was the ideal start to a long day ahead.

In essence, Okiep Country Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it's a portal to a world where time slows down, and every nook has a tale to tell. Okiep, often dubbed the oldest mining town in South Africa, witnessed the discovery and mining of copper in 1855. It used to be the epicenter of South African copper mining, experiencing an immediate boom. In 1866, a railway line was ingeniously constructed from Okiep to Port Nolloth for shipping copper. Interestingly, the scarcity of water for steam engines led to the Namaqualand Mule Train, pulled by mules, until 1890. By 1918, the Okiep copper mines had ceased operation, and the town teetered on the edge of becoming a ghost town.

In springtime, Okiep is - like the whole of Namaqualand - very rich in blossoming wildflowers, adding a colorful touch to its historical legacy.

Although the hotel offers various day tours, I, unfortunately, didn't have the time to try any of them during my stay.

My experience at Okiep Country Hotel felt like I was living in the pages of a beloved novel, where old-world charm and modern comfort coexist seamlessly.

If you ever find yourself yearning for a getaway that offers a touch of adventure and a sense of home, I wholeheartedly recommend experiencing the magic of Okiep Country Hotel. Come and create your own chapter in this captivating story.

www.okiep.co.za