Magical - Geraldine Eliot. Date of travel: Jan 2007
Nieu-Bethesda is a small oasis in the heart of the Karoo. Lured here by the eerie Owl House, many artists have stayed and made this historical town a haven of crafts, arts and laid-back Karoo hospitality. We explored the Owl House (artist Helen Martin transformed her family home with strange statues and covered the walls with coloured glass and mirrors) which is captivating, sad and strange all at once. A combination ticket gives you access to a tiny fossil museum which is more the story of the man who excavated in the area. We also wandered the dusty streets and came across an old blacksmith cottage, a mill and a brewery dating back to the 1800s. We relaxed under a tree and drank homemade Karoo Honey Ale as a hot wind blew... totally relaxing and wonderful, a family run establishment and working farm. On our way out, we visited Ganora - a farm that has 6,000 to 8,000 year old Bushmen paintings, 140 million year old fossils and a Boer War site. Run by a farmer and his wife, the farmer takes you on a tour and then guides you through the fossil museum. totally fascinating and an incredibly knowledgeable guide. They also have a family of meerkats that have adopted them! Nieu-Bethesda is definitely a must-see, although dont come expecting bright lights and buzzing nightlife. There are one or 2 restaurants but in season, be sure to book well in advance. A definite highlight on our road trip.