The history of the Karoo surfaces at Ganora in layers, and all the layers have texture.
Sheep farmers Hester and JP Steynberg moved here just over ten years ago, and immediately started discovering the farms previous lives from the flinty rock that reveals ancient fossils to the smooth sides of the shelter painted by Bushmen.
The result is a private museum featuring all the fossils and Bushman implements found by them and their sons, Louis and Renier. The highlight of the collection is Kompasia delaharpi, the only complete fossil of this fish in the world.
A visit to the museum can be followed by accompanied walks to the fossil bed and to the sites of Bushman paintings and engravings. Working closely with Wits University, Hester and JP take seriously their role as caretakers of the past and educators for the future.
"In one day, we can give you a lifetime experience starting 240 million years ago" says Hester. Even the Anglo-Boer War features in Ganoras past.
All this is available to day visitors (and groups are welcome too) but the real feel of Ganora comes with a stay in Khoisan Cottage. Originally a sheep kraal, and then a labourers home, Ganoras guest cottage is sited against two rocky hillsides and overlooks the farms horses, wool sheds, geese, goats and cattle.
To experience the real feel of the farm, our self-contained comfortable cottage, provides accommodation for six.
foto of room2
Full of rustic charm, its thick, uneven walls provide accommodation for up to six people but with no concession to comfort. You are assured of privacy and a personal relationship with the Karoo. You can participate in farm activities, enjoy a dip in the farm reservoir, a genuine Karoo swimming pool! - or go walking, bike riding or birding.
Meals are available if you choose not to self-cater. Hester will deliver a light or a full breakfast, and supper. For a full three-course dinner, your presence is requested at the family table in the main house.
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