Oakdene Guest House B&B in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape

Oakdene Guest House is situated in the centre of historic Oudtshoorn, and captures all the character, charm and heritage of a bygone era - the ostrich feather boom (1880 to 1914).

This charming Victorian home is one of the oldest houses in Oudtshoorn dating back to 1853. The plot originally belonged to Rev. T.J. van der Riet and the house was built by Mr. J.H. Mulder who also built the magnificent sandstone Moederkerk and Pastorie. Oakdene was declared a National Monument in 1988. Fortunately the exterior of the house has been preserved. The main road actually narrows close to Oakdene to preserve the last remaining piece of the original open water lead-lined furrow, dated 1847 which ran through Oudtshoorn in the old days.

Oakdene is sheltered under the original Oak trees in the centre of Oudtshoorn, on the main tourist route to the well known Cango Caves and Ostrich farms. The front door of Oakdene Guest House is always wide open to the street offering a warm and inviting glimpse of gleaming wood and a golden interior that few passers-by can resist. Oakdene is within walking distance from the town centre and well known restaurants to enjoy local wines and delicious Ostrich steaks.

Since 2000 Oakdene is part of a family business owned by the Retief family, well known in the tourism industry as in true South African style.

Accommodation

Oakdene has been completely renovated with the most modern baths and beds but retaining the typical Cape architectural style of the time - a blend of Victorian and Klein Karoo. Liza Retief (owner/ manager) artistically decorated each room with earthy colours, textured paints, cottage furniture and Persian carpets. The woodwork in the building is exquisite, for it’s original window frames and doors have been restored to their original beauty. The interior gives a relaxed, uncluttered but distinctive character to this lovely house.

Oakdene has six spacious en-suite bedrooms. Each room is equipped with individually, remote controlled air- conditioners, TV with M-Net, hairdryers, tea trays, telephone and safe in the rooms, electric blankets in winter and other amenities to make your stay a pleasant one.

A garden and swimming pool, which Liza transferred into an oasis in the Karoo, makes you want to spend a lush, sunny day in typical Karoo temperatures. It also makes it relaxing if the children are accompanying you. Safe, under-cover parking is also available on the premises.

Breakfast

A real South African breakfast is served in the “plaas kombuis” or outside on the patio over looking the lush garden. Tables are laid and decorated with Liza’s hand painted table cloths and handmade cutlery. We serve fresh baked bread and ‘vetkoek’ a variety for home cooked jams, fresh fruit, cheese board, a variety of cereals and a cooked breakfast of your choice, traditionally South African with yoghurt, fresh fruit juice, tea and coffee.

But what will remain with you for a long time after visiting Oakdene is the warmth and hospitality of your host.

We look forward to welcoming you.