It is not often that a hotel-stay makes one feel part of the local community. But this hotel does. The staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome. Every query, no matter how mundane, was met with a friendly and helpful response. The central location means that all the quaint shops and restaurants are within easy walking distance. I also recommend that guests make enquiries of the staff for recommended hikes in the area. We did the 1 1/2 hour Bertus Cooke Hiking Trail, which starts 200m from the hotel and takes you over the hill overlooking the town. As an avid naturalist, I was amazed at the diversity of Fynbos species. An easy elevated hike - we did it with kids in tow - quite manageable for persons of average fitness. This is what makes the Western Cape so unique: the Cape Floristic Region (one of the 36 global biodiversity hotspots). Even in this relatively arid landscape, the Fynbos species are rich and diverse. A final note: the whole town is intersected with "leivore" in Afrikaans (open stone-walled irrigation channels) which divert water from the river to the lower lying properties in town. While a notable heritage feature, this also means that there are lots of mosquitoes in the summer months. Not a train smash. Just remember to ask reception for mosquito repellant spray or remember to pack some spray/ lotion if you visit in summer.

The staff were exceptional. Nothing was too much trouble. Although the hotel was fully booked, when we asked if we could be upgraded they went out of their way to do so even though we made it clear that it was not a necessity. They gave great advice on what to do in Barrydale. The breakfast was amongst the best we have had even though this is not a five star hotel. A special thanks goes to Vivienne and Adri for making our three night stay so memorable.

A little noisy. I would recommend using the fan which serves to drown out some of the noise of the neighbouring restaurants and shops. That having been said it was very quiet after 11 pm

We had a fantastic stay and will definitely visit again. The staff are exceptional and went out of their way to make us feel at home and ensure we had a wonderful stay. The food was delicious and we thoroughly enjoyed the variety at breakfast. The owners Sue and Rick are incredibly hands on, involved and passionate and the morning swim with Rick was an absolute highlight. The rooms are immaculately clean and so comfortable. And the hotel has lots to offer and enjoy. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and look forward to the next one!

My stay at the Karoo Art Hotel felt like a home away from home! From the moment I arrived, the staff were warm, friendly, and made me feel genuinely welcome. The hotel has a variety of charming spaces to relax in—whether soaking up the sun on the beautiful stoep, unwinding in the cosy bar, or admiring the exquisite art and stunning furniture arranged throughout. The food was simply outstanding! I enjoyed breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the restaurant, and every meal was top-notch, thanks to the exceptional chef Derek Lowe. My room was spacious, spotless, and had all the amenities I needed. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the small balcony provided a breathtaking view. Overall, I absolutely loved my stay and can’t wait to return. Highly recommended!

There was absolutely nothing I didn’t like. Everything was perfect!

The art and decor were all in good taste, and the rooms comfortable. They have done a great job of bringing the hotel into the 21st century whist keeping the 'óld skool feel'.

No fault of the hotel, but the construction of the road in front of the hotel was very noisym dusty and restricted access fromn the front. A minor irritation was the constant load creaking of the swing door between the kitchjen and dinuing room - there were a number fo complaints and staff were at a loss. Eventually we jammed the door open, the kitchen nopises being better than the creaking!

This is a wonderful Karoo Art Hotel in the Karoo.. a true experience of a bygone era. Anyone travelling thorugh the Karoo along the R62 must take a night out and stay here, have a drink in the bar and treat yourself at the hotel's restaurant- just a wonderful experience, lovely fireplaces, quirky art and each room is beautifully decorated.. We loved the electric blankets too!!! We will be back again and again!

Nothing it was just excellent all round

My second visit and not long enough! I just love the quirky decor and imaginative attention to detail… The rooms are all different and gorgeous and the snowy beds sooooo comfortable. My well-travelled companions couldn’t get over the quality of the food (we had dinner and breakfast). It’s a fabulous Alice-in-Wonderland bolt hole with space to lounge, picturesque corners and wonderful map-room off the bar…… and a small but ACE pool! We so enjoyed the early morning journey up the pass to dip into a mountain stream, guided by Mickey, the local journalist…… Truly a unique night stop! Need more time…..

More time!!!!!

Very Good Breakfast (plus wonderful Chef who chatted to us every morning) and THANK YOU for the complimentary bottle of Champagne for my birthday friend Excellent dinner (plus wonderful owner and Chef who chatted at the table)

Only comment is the one wall in the bathroom of the Dog Box that needs some attention; there seems to be mould. and the curtains must just be hooked in (I know they tend to go off the rails) Otherwise great room to have for the weekend

We loved the quirkiness of the hotel that was its real charm. The art on the walls and all the decor had real charm and character. There is a proper bar area where on one evening they had a very good pianist playing. You definitely get the feeling that the hotel is something of a hub for the village and community and a lot of activity centres around it. Some of the rooms are bigger and nicer than others, and we were able to change ours to a nicer more spacious one. Staff were very accommodating and helpful and we’re able to advise and arrange lots for us to do- on that don’t miss a dip in the local fresh water river - a wonderful start to our day! Breakfast was really delicious with lots of variety. Garden and pool area was very pretty and a lovely place to relax as well.

Old school world filled with charm, character, antiques and art and a real find amongst the small dusty towns along route 62. Vivienne at front desk was so welcoming and really paid attention to the guests needs. The staff were all friendly and welcoming. The property is an eclectic find with wonders and interesting art and design around every turn at the property. A lovely garden, pool and dining room.