MERWEVILLE

Gem of the Great Karoo

Tucked away in the heart of South Africa’s vast and arid Great Karoo lies the quiet town of Merweville, a place where time seems to slow down. Established in the early 1900s and named after Reverend van der Merwe, this small Karoo town is part of the Beaufort West municipality in the Western Cape. It remains largely untouched by modern development, offering visitors a rare glimpse into rural South African life.
Merweville is known for its striking landscapes, flat-topped koppies, open plains, and star-filled night skies that attract photographers and stargazers alike. With a population of less than 2000, the town fosters a strong sense of community, centered around its churches, schools, and local festivals.
Each year, Merweville hosts the ever-popular Dankfees, which brings together locals and visitors for a celebration of food, and culture. The town’s remote charm appeals to those seeking solitude, authenticity, and a deep connection to nature. A town where silence is audible and the sunsets awesome.

Where to stay

There are a variety of Guest Houses to choose from and the Restaurant options will not leave you disappointed. There is also a selection of Activities that you may like to experience during your visit.
Whilst walking, yes it is safe to do so, and or driving around town keep an eye out for the little gems hiding in the properties. 

What to Do in Merweville

Nestled in the heart of the Karoo, Merweville offers a charming blend of rustic adventure and tranquil discovery. Visitors can soak in the golden hues of the landscape on the unforgettable Letterkop Sunset Trip, or explore sustainable farming practices during the Aquaponics Tour—a testament to the town’s resilience in arid conditions. Sweet tooths will delight in the Nougat Factory, where local flavors come to life, while thrill-seekers can test their aim with Archery sessions. History buffs will appreciate the Church Tower Tour, offering panoramic views and stories from the town’s early 1900s heritage. For those who crave open skies and winding roads, Scenic Drives through koppies and plains reveal the untouched beauty that makes Merweville a true Karoo gem. For more details, visit the Merweville What to Do page.

Where to Eat in Merweville

When it comes to dining in Merweville, Die Boekklub is the town’s culinary heartbeat. This cozy coffee shop and farm stall serves up hearty Karoo-style breakfasts, mouthwatering burgers on homemade buns, fresh salads, and decadent cakes—all baked on-site in their rustic kitchen. Whether you're sipping a coffee or indulging in a slice of their own baked cakes, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a touch of literary charm inspired by the Afrikaans TV series filmed there. Come the first week of October 2025, food lovers can look forward to the grand opening of the Karoo Koppie Tea Garden and Deli, promising even more local flavor and hospitality in this charming dorpie. For more details visit the Merweville Eat Out page.