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SECRET GEMS OF PRINCE ALBERT: WHY YOUR NET TRIP SHOULD GO BEYOND THE GARDEN ROUTE

  • Stanley Island
  • Jun 18
  • 4 min read
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P R I N C E

A L B E R T


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While the Garden Route and Route 62 have long held their place in the hearts of travellers, South Africa is filled with lesser-known towns that quietly steal the show for those willing to wander a little further. One such gem? Prince Albert - a soulful Karoo town nestled at the foot of the Swartberg mountains.


At Stanley Island, we’re always looking for those places that hold character, charm, and connection - places like Prince Albert that remind you why you travel in the first place. Prince Albert shares a special place in our heart and heritage. So if you’re mapping out your next adventure, consider carving out a few days beyond the well-trodden coast. Here’s why Prince Albert deserves a proud spot on your itinerary.


1. Karoo Hand Gemaak - Craftsmanship Worth Traveling For

Step inside Karoo Hand Gemaak, and you’ll understand what the Karoo does best - make things with care, intention, and love. From hand-thrown ceramics to beautifully woven textiles, this store is a celebration of local makers and time-honoured craft. It’s the perfect place to pick up a piece that tells a story, and trust us, you’ll want to take one home.


2. Hope Warrior Coffee Bar - Caffeine with a Cause

More than just a great cup of coffee, Hope Warrior CoffeeBar is a community-led initiative that uplifts local youth through skill-building, mentorship, and hospitality training. It’s run with heart and it shows. Enjoy your flat white with a side of inspiration and get to know the people shaping the future of Prince Albert, one smile (and espresso) at a time. Definitely the best coffee in town. 


3. The Gables Fitness - Stretch, Sweat, Reset

Feeling stiff after road-tripping through the Karoo or hiking the Swartberg? The Gables Fitness offers group classes and a fully equipped gym, all set within a historic building that’s been lovingly restored. It’s a grounding pause in your journey — and a great way to balance out all that bakery hopping.


4. Hendry’s Bakery - Where the Locals Go

Forget fancy frills. Henry’s is the kind of no-nonsense bakery that’s all about flavour and comfort. Fresh-baked breads, flaky croissants, the kind of pies your grandma would approve of. It’s where the locals gather, and the moment you step inside, you’ll understand why.


5. Karoo Kombuis - Home-Cooked Magic

Dinner here feels like you’ve been invited to a Karoo family kitchen. Think bobotie, slow-roasted lamb, and malva pudding served with old-school charm. Karoo Kombuis doesn’t just feed you - it wraps you up in a warm hug and leaves you grinning.



6. The Showroom - A Tiny Theatre That’ll Surprise You

On Wednesdays, locals gather at the Showroom Theatre for movie night - a simple, lovely tradition  Its as if you step back in to time - opulent interior that is characterised with a blind of Art Deco - and a sense of community you can’t fake. Check their schedule and make a night of it. 


7. Prince Albert Saturday Morning Market - A Taste of Karoo Life

Every Saturday morning, the square next to the Fransie Pienaar Museum comes alive with the Prince Albert Farmers Market. It's a beloved local tradition where you can savor delicious breakfasts, browse home-produce and craft stalls, and shop for jams, preserves, olives, freshly baked bread, and organically grown vegetables and fresh fruit in season. Don't miss the bargains at the White Elephant stall! 


8. Ons Botanical – Bring the Karoo Home

Why not take a little piece of the Swartberg Mountains with you? Ons Botanical curates a stunning selection of locally crafted products — from their well-known collaboration with Honest Chocolate to the fragrant Kapbokbos range of soaps, body washes, and wellness items. It’s a sensory keepsake of the Karoo, perfect for gifting or indulging yourself.


9. Prince Albert Open Studios – Art in the Heart of the Karoo

A rotating showcase of the town’s creative spirit, Prince Albert Open Studios invites you into the workspaces of local artists twice a year. Wander between galleries, chat with painters, ceramicists, sculptors and photographers, and experience Prince Albert’s vibrant, often surprising, art scene. It’s an intimate way to connect with the town’s creative soul — no velvet ropes, just open doors.



10. Prince Albert Koppie – A View to Remember

For a touch of adventure without driving far, take on the Prince Albert Koppie walk. This gentle hike leads to a rocky outcrop overlooking the entire town and the surrounding Karoo plains, framed by the jagged Swartberg peaks. Ideal for sunrise or sunset, the panoramic views are sweeping — and the sense of peace at the summit is the perfect finale (or prelude) to your Karoo exploration.


Why It Matters

There’s something about Prince Albert that feels refreshingly honest. It’s not about ticking boxes or chasing crowds. It’s about slowing down, connecting with people, and rediscovering the joy of small-town travel.


So on your next visit to Stanley Island, once you’ve soaked up the sun, zebras, and stillness of the Keurbooms, turn inland. Add a detour through the Karoo and make Prince Albert your next stop. You won’t find it in every guidebook - but those are often the best kind of places.


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