Walkerbouts Inn, located in Rhodes, in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. The Walkerbouts was established more than two decades ago by the proprietor, Dave Walker, and is located on the same site as the original farmhouse on the farm "Tintern" on which the village of Rhodes was established in 1891. It is in an elevated position on the western side of Rhodes on a quiet cul-de-sac with a stunning view across the village. Walkerbouts has six en-suite bedrooms complete with wall-mounted panel heaters and beds fitted with electric blankets to ward off the winter chill. We look forward to sharing our high-altitude hospitality with you.
Price @ from R765 p/p per Night - Bed, Breakfast and Dinner Included
Walkerbouts Inn - Rhodes was established almost two decades ago by the proprietor, Dave Walker. It is located on the same site as the original farmhouse on the farm "Tintern" on which the village of Rhodes was established in 1891. It is in an elevated position on the western side of Rhodes on a quiet cul de sac with a stunning view across the village. Attending trade shows such as Indaba, Hooked on Fishing, the Grahamstown Festival, Getaway shows and many others on behalf of the local tourism industry, Walker was accordingly nicknamed "Walkabout" by Leon Isted, a late great friend from the farm Bidstone who is sorely missed. On establishing the venue, it was a natural conclusion that the name should be a corruption of the nickname and became "Walkerbouts Inn - Rhodes". "Opstal" as it was known at the time, had been used by the founders of the Tiffindell Ski Resort in the early 90s until the fledgling resort could accommodate it's own staff on site. A process of upgrading the establishment from the "glorified backpackers" state to it's current condition ensued. A major revamp took place in 1999 and was completed by June of that year. En-suite bathrooms were added and the premises extended to include a sunny lounge, office and bar dining-room. The lounge is the perfect haven in winter with the sun pouring in warms it up while the icy winter breezes blow by outside.
Accommodation
Walkerbouts has six en-suite bedrooms complete with wall-mounted panel heaters and beds fitted with electric blankets to ward off the winter chill. Four of the room's en-suite facilities have showers and the other two have showers in the baths. Three have a double bed with a single bed and the family rooms have a double and two single beds.
The dining room and lounge are heated by a "Jetmaster" fire-place as well as a "Bekkers" anthracite heater. The cosy pub, whose walls could tell many stories serves "build-your-own" pizzas, providing an alternative to the wholesome country fare served in the dining room. More specialised victuals such as vegetarian meals can be prepared by prior arrangement.
In addition to offering a laundry service, we also have a tumble dryer that can save the day for times when inclement weather makes life difficult. Contact reception to make appropriate arrangements.
Location
Rhodes is located in the Eastern Cape Highlands, near the escarpment at the southernmost end of the mighty Drakensberg mountain range in the magisterial district of Barkly East. Rhodes was voted one of South Africa's Top 20 Secret Places by Getaway Magazine.
Activities
Fly Fishing
Fly fishing can be enjoyed all year round on WTA waters and weather willing, access to fly fishing can be arranged on more than 200km within an hour’s drive of Rhodes. The Wild Trout Association (WTA) is based at Walkerbouts Inn Rhodes where beats can be booked and day permits purchased. Beats are sold on a first-come first-served basis but can also be booked in advance at the risk of inclement weather rendering the beat/s booked unfishable.
Scenic Drives
Being located in the southernmost section of the Drakensberg range, Rhodes is central to a number of passes, the most well-known of which is the Naudesnek Pass which, at more than 2500m above sea-level, is the highest in South Africa.
Birding
More than 230 species have been seen or heard in the district and several rare species can be seen in the Rhodes area including the threatened Bearded vulture of which there are estimated to only be +-100 breeding pairs left in Southern Africa. The slightly more abundant Cape vulture is also found in these parts.
Flowers
Contrary to the many myths and legends surrounding a trip to the Highlands, a visit need not consist of fly fishing only. Amongst the many other attractions is the floral wealth that has remained largely undiscovered by South Africans. Groups of foreign visitors come here solely to experience our floral diversity. Unlike the “big hit” seen in Namaqualand in spring, the floral splendour here continues in succession throughout the summer.
Hiking - The Crystal Route
Walks on the village common start at the gate next to the sandstone entrance walls en route to Rubicon. The climb-through at the gate and all of the others are easily identified by the blue PVC pipes used to protect walkers from the creosote on the poles used for the frame-work. The Crystal Route is 4,1km in extent and the height difference between the start and the highest point is +-160m. Before embarking on walks, check on the weather as thunder storms can and do occur posing a threat from lightning strikes. Always take sufficient water with you and ensure that you have applied adequate sun protection cream. A wide hat is recommended as are long-sleeved shirts.
Rates
R765 p/p sharing per night - Bed, Breakfast & Dinner Included
R200 p/p sharing for bikers group bookings
Only Bed & Breakfast also available
Contact Details
Phone: +27 (0) 45 9749 290
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website: www.walkerbouts.co.za
1 Vorster Street, Rhodes, Eastern Cape, 9787
