The Drostdy Hotel – a 48-room, boutique, five-star property in Graaff-Reinet, Eastern Cape – celebrated a decade of its partnership with the non-profit South African College for Tourism (SACT) focused on empowering marginalised communities through hospitality training. Originally built in 1804, the hotel has become a key heritage destination in South Africa, combining history with modern luxury.
A model of sustainable tourism
The Drostdy Hotel was donated to SACT in 2014 by the Rupert Family Foundation after extensive renovations. Since then, it has served as a platform for SACT’s mission of offering hospitality training to rural youth with focus on women. The initiative includes Tracker Academy aimed at preserving traditional tracking skills and fostering eco-tourism.
Tony Romer-Lee, Valor Hospitality Partners Co-Founder and Managing Partner: Africa, Middle East and Asia, highlighted the impact of this partnership: “By nurturing local talent, we’re ensuring a thriving future for the tourism industry.”
Heritage and transformation
The hotel’s history dates back to its construction by architect Louis Thibault during the Dutch occupation. It transitioned into a hotel in 1878 and was later restored and declared a national monument in 1975. The Rupert Family Foundation’s involvement has ensured the building’s legacy is preserved while integrating modern hospitality services.
Director John Loftie-Eaton reaffirmed the hotel’s commitment to its heritage: “We have honoured the heritage of this remarkable building yet elevated it to luxury accommodation, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of the Karoo’s future.”
Collaboration with Air du Cap
The Drostdy Hotel recently partnered with Air du Cap offering charter flights from Cape Winelands Airport to Graaff-Reinet. This service enhances accessibility to the historic town, which boasts over 200 heritage sites. The hotel and Air du Cap provide pet-friendly services catering to a wider range of travellers.
