Nieu Bethesda

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What to Do in Nieu Bethesda

~ Also see ‘To Buy’ for more ~

At first glance Nieu Bethesda appears to be a sleepy village, lying loosely at the foot of the Sneeuberg Mountains, awaiting the kiss of life. But do not be deceived – the heart of life beats strongly here – an unforgettable landscape, world-famous geology, wildlife and botanical richness also shelters remarkable people. Together, the place and people makes Nieu Bethesda an ideal destination for a few days (those who know better stay for a week and longer.) Come to unwind, relax and catch up with yourself and the infectious Karoo creative energy. You’ll leave refreshed and a little stronger.

Nieu Bethesda Community Tourism Organisation ~ 079 070 8988 or 082 865 2699

Bethesda Arts Centre

A hub of creativity with art gallery, working studios, open air theatre, restaurant & quirky accommodation.

www.bethesdafoundation.org / info@bethesdafoundation.org 073 028 8887

Ganora Excursions

Give us a day and we'll give you 240 million years! Guided tours to:

Bushman & Khoi Rock Art/Paintings / Private Fossil & Artifact Museum / Fossil walk / Medicinal plant walk / Sheep shearing explanation / Meerkat rehab.

049 8411 302 / 082 698 0029 / info@ganora.co.za / www.ganora.co.za

Nieu Ceramics Studio & Gallery

Acclaimed SA artist Charmaine Haines works within the realm of figurative clay, using abstract and stylised symbols and motives to embellish her sculptural and utility forms. Martin Haines produces plates and platters in a rich peasant pottery style.

049 8411 767 / 078 777 1966 / info@charmainehaines.co.za

Jakob’s Donkey Cart Tours

You can’t miss Jakob van Staden as he rides the most distinctive transport in the village. Leaving from the Owl House, Jacob’s guided tour includes Pienaarsig and is a highlight of any visit to Nieu Bethesda.

Seven years ago Jakob had a dream: a donkeycart that helped him share his love for his hometown. The first small cart has grown to a sturdy three-bench model he now drives.

You’ll find him under the pepper tree in front of the Owl House.

Jakob van Staden ~ 072 987 9831

Dust Covers Bookshop

This welcome addition to the village offers a large variety of books in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Pop in for a cup of coffee and a chat, and if there is any book that you have been searching for, Victoria will find it for you!

Victoria Nance ~ 082 517 0045 ~ victorianance@hotmail.com

Sneeuberg Microbrewery, Cheese Farm & Coffee Roastery

André will take you on a tour of the brewery and you can taste his homemade cheese platters under the trees or in the cozy brewery.

049 8411 602 / sneeuberg24@gmail.com

The Cemetery

With graves dating back hundreds of years, many of them unmarked save for their beautiful local stone, this is a peaceful and pretty place to spend a quiet time. See more on the home page.

The Dutch Reformed Church

Still lit by gas chandeliers that pre-date the arrival of electricity in the town, the imposing white church asserts its presence over the entire valley.

For a tour of the Church, please phone 049 8411 775.

The James Kitching Fossil Exploration Centre

The Centre is situated next to the owl House and tells the story of life in South Africa 253 million years ago during the Permian Period.

Discover why the Karoo is an important place for fossil finds and about the extinction event which destroyed most of the earth’s life 251 years ago.

Take a half-hour stroll with a guide to the nearby Gats River bed to find real fossils.

The Old Mill

A quaint stone building houses this ancient water mill with a great view. Explore the small water mill that used to grind wheat and might again some day soon.

The Owl House

The strange and wonderful Owl House created by Helen Martins in the 50’s and made famous by Athol Fugard in “The Road to Mecca”.

049 8411 733 / theowlhouse@mweb.co.za / www.theowlhouse.co.za

Martin Haines — Potter

Martin produces a range of handmade plates & platters and tiles. He works mainly in blue and white inspired by traditional early European porcelain called Delftware. His work, unlike fine porcelain has more of a rustic finish giving it a more tactile ‘peasant pottery’ feel.

Work available at the The Village Inn. 9-5pm daily.

078 777 1966 or 049 8411767

The Helen Martins Museum

With this small museum, the Owl House Foundation pays tribute to a Remarkable Woman, Helen Martins. Years after her tragic death, her passion and art still inspire thousands of people that read about her work and visit her Owl House Mecca.

Here the visitor can see old archive photos, letters and documents of Helen Martins.

049 8411 733 / theowlhouse@mweb.co.za / www.theowlhouse.co.za

Infinity Gallery

Features contemporary art by Dirkje Daling. Come and enjoy this serene space, like entering into a refreshing pool amidst the heat.

I enjoy playing with nature, often incorporating landscape and installation art in the gallery.

Occasional piano recitals as advertised.

Please visit our website at http://www.artinfinity.co.za

The Lookout

Enjoy a glass of champagne at sundown on a bench overlooking Nieu Bethesda with a wonderful view of Compassberg.