Who We Are...
De Oude Kraal Country Estate a Bloemfontein Accommodation Guest House, based on a 2400Ha working sheep farm owned by a 6th Generation family where dedication and excellence is a way of living.
A Bloemfontein Accommodation with a difference.
The Concept of De Oude Kraal
The concept of De Oude Kraal comes from the native Koi Tribe, they used the natural rocks from the area to build the “kraal” (animal enclosure) that kept their livestock safe from predators.
This Free State guest house is a natural extension from the “Kraal” concept, in that the guests experience the tranquility, security and serenity of De Oude Kraal Country Estate.
What to Expect at De Oude Kraal?
Variety of activities: Upon arrival at De Oude Kraal Country Estate and Spa, the guests may choose from a variety of exciting activities, such as a leisurely walk through the lush gardens, rest by the pool with a book or explore the historical main house.
Tea and Cake: Upon arrival for afternoon check-in, you are served complimentary and traditional country tea with fresh home-baked cakes and pastries.
Sundown Drive: You will enjoy a Sundown drive by tractor and wagon on one of our custom designed trails, and be delighted with the spectacular Free State sunset. You will also catch a glimpse of our herds of Springbuck and Blesbuck roaming free on the farm.
More adventures: For the more adventurous guests we have activities such as clay pigeon shooting, hiking and horse-riding trails and much more.
Bird watching: You don’t have to be an ornithologist to appreciate the excellent diversity of bird species on the farm. The list was compiled by esteemed Judge Howie during his stay at De Oude Kraal. You will enjoy a bird watching hide tucked away and fully equipped with lists of all the species of local birds, and binoculars.
Wine and Dine: Returning to the main house for dinner, you are invited to visit Gerhard’s in-house wine cellar – De Oude Kelder, and select a wine to complement your dinner.
Spa Experience: Relax and unwind at this luxurious Bloemfontein spa. This Bloemfontein accommodation, offers all the relaxing facilities as well.
Marie Lombard as the chef was born and raised at De Oude Kraal. She artfully combines farm style South African cooking with a touch of French flair to produce a 6-Course Gourmet dinner that delights the senses.
The Historic Origin of De Oude Kraal
De Ou
de Kraal, originally known as Wilhelmshöhe, was part of a farm called Bridegroomspruit that belonged to the Griqua tribe. The captain of the tribe, Adam Kok, gave the farm to Johannes Witvoet as a wedding gift, hence the name “Bruidegomspruit” which means Bridegroom’s creek.
A missionary by the name of Friedrich Wilhelm Salzmann bought Bruidegomspruit from Witvoet. Friedrich divided the farm between his sons Carel and Martin, thus part of Bruidegomspruit became Wilhelmshöhe.
The original house was built in 1885 by Martin Salzmann. The south wing was added in 1945 by Judge A.J. Smit, the grandfather of Marie Lombard (nee Bührmann), thus completing the traditional H-plan of the house.
The farm has been passed from mother to daughter, from Salzmann to Smit to Buhrmann to Lombard.
Gerhard and Marie Lombard renovated the grand old farmhouse in 1992 to be used as a Country Estate.
The name De Oude Kraal is derived from the stone “kraals” (animal enclosures) that were built by M.J. Salzmann (Senior), as well as from the stone ruins built by the Khoi people who had lived there.
