All About Tarkastad: Eastern Cape, South Africa

Tarkastad is a Karoo town in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, situated on the banks of the Tarka River, against the dramatic backdrop of the Winterberg Mountains. Tarkastad is located three-hours from Port Elizabeth, between Cradock and Queenstown.

The first farmers inhabited the Tarkastad region in 1795, so many watermills, inns and a Dutch Reformed and Presbyterian Church can be seen in the quaintly historical town.

The lure of the Winterberg Mountains has made Tarkastad a popular spot for mountain bikers and hikers. One notable hike is the Toorberg, a three-day 45-kilometre camping hike, which many outdoors enthusiasts have challenged themselves against.

Tarkastad also offers cultural excursions and the Tarkastad rock engravings are a prime example of San rock art.

Tarkastad is close to the Mountain Zebra National Park and the Tsolwana Game Reserve, which offer great game viewing opportunities.

To experience the Eastern Cap interior, please contact Blanco Guest Farm:

Reservations & Info (045) 846 9163

E-mail info@blanco.co.za

The Blanco Experience

Guests are accommodated in cosy cottages with a rustic feel, and may choose between twin and three bedded rooms, and two bedroomed cottages. All of the cottages are serviced daily and have private bathroom facilities.

Your stay includes a traditional country style breakfast, a light lunch and a four-course dinner, served in our comfortable dining room. Homemade bread and fresh farm cream are also part of the Blanco tradition.

Our homely main lounge is ideal for reading and relaxing, and offers warm comfort with a log fire. There is a separate TV lounge and a well-stocked library, and teenagers can escape to their own games room for "chat" and table tennis.

A spacious veranda frames the front of the main house and it is from here, that guests can appreciate the views of the majestic Winterberg mountains. Teas are served on the veranda and in the warm weather, some of the meals as well.

Blanco caters for conferences and groups and is one of the few holiday resorts that has its own private landing strip.

Contact us for more details:
Reservations & Info (045) 846 9163
E-mail info@blanco.co.za

Activities At Blanco For The Family

Get into the great outdoors at Blanco

If bowls is your game, there's a full size championship rink with Florida grass. Golfers can practice their chipping and test their skills on our challenging golf course. Three all-weather tennis courts are available and a squash court with a wooden sprung floor.

There is also a sauna, a large swimming pool and a trampoline and a volley ball court.

We have now added lovely 4 by 4 trails and mountain bike trails through the beautiful mountains that surround Blanco.

The Farm Experience

Blanco horses are suitable for adults and children. Rides are at set times and are accompanied by a member of our staff. Early morning pony rides are always a favourite with the children.

Cows are milked daily and children are welcome to participate. There is also a rabbit enclosure where bunnies are always ready to nibble on that hand-delivered extra piece of greenery.

Animals are very much a part of the farm life, and to witness first hand the birth of a lamb or calf can be an unforgettable experience.