13 Oct Beaufort West
Beaufort West in the northern limits of the Western Cape is an interesting town, that still retains some of the old world charm, and lies within sight of the Great Karoo National Park.
The town has a surfuit of accomodation establishments of a high standard, especially for those travelling through the Great Karoo region. There are also a number of late 18th century churches.
The town was founded in 1818, and was named after Henry Somerset, Duke of Beaufort. Sheep farming, mainly Marino is still a mainstay, as is tourism to the nearby Park and passers by who are exploring the vast Karoo expanses.
Dr Christiaan Barnard, the world reknowned heart transplant surgeon, grew up in this town and his achievements are commemorated in the local Museum.