The Water Tower
A circular double-storey with an interesting past. This quirky building was first a water tower and ...
The Water Tower
A circular double-storey with an interesting past. This quirky building was first a water tower and then a Buddhist meditation room. With whitewashed walls and wooden floors, it is a calm and clean space from which to enjoy the famous Karoo sky, day or night. The Water Tower sits in a pleasant garden in the heart of Nieu Bethesda.
The Water Tower sleeps two guests on a queen-size bed in the room upstairs adjoining the sun&star deck. The kitchenette is below with the private shower and composting toilet attached in a separate outbuilding. Do some stargazing on the deck before creeping under your crisp cotton sheets, lambs wool duvets and mohair blanket.
Life in Nieu Bethesda potters along much as it did 130 years ago, when the village was founded. Stone water furrows still line the wide, dusty streets. Night skycaps are unpolluted by streetlights and the air is still fresh and clean.
Nieu Bethesda has a working network of furrows, with water supplied daily from a spring on the plateau above the village. Residents channel water into their gardens using smaller gated funnels. Visitors can hike along the furrows up to the spring or prearrange a hike up Kompasberg mountain or through the Canyon on one of the surrounding farms.
The area around Nieu Bethesda is good for either a leisurely ride or a challenging ride for serious mountain bikers. Wake up early to conquer one of the two mountain bike routes in the area or stroll around town exploring the many galleries and eateries dotted around the village.
Reviews
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"Nieu-Bethesda hospitality top notch"
06 April 2021"Unique accommodation for the long-weekend. small kitchenette perfectly equipped. clean, white linen. very hot water in the shower.The room requires a small bench and a shelf or two."
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"The friendliness from the hostess was warm and welcoming."
19 September 2020"I loved the location - next to the Art Centre Restaurant and one block from the Owl House.The layout of the water tower is quirky and fun. I liked the deck and bedroom. The toilet is an organic 'long drop' but clean and easy to use. Really fun and a visit I will remember of fondly. Great breakfast!"
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"Ms Viljoen"
27 July 2016"I stayed at the Outsiders House. Dog friendly, an arty feel which is rare because all the furnishings are unique and well displayed. Great taste overall. High quality bedding which is not mass produced and has an individual touch. Clean and quite. Will definitely stay there again. Thanks. A lot to do in the small hidden gem of a town."
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"Magic but......"
30 April 2016"We had a wonderful time in Nieu Bethesda but the composting toilet is not for the fainthearted. We were given the option of another cottage but wanted to stay in the tower. It has a certain magic to it and actually really comfortable. Really cheap coffee....no chicory! At least have decent coffee! We shall not return to the Tower but certainly to Nieu Bethesda"
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"Lovely experience"
27 July 2015"The accommodation was very neat and clean. Perfect for an overnight stay. The Karoo Lamb food was also delicously hearthy for the cold.<div>We will most definitely stop there again.</div>"
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"Quirky charm"
14 January 2015"I only spent one night at the Water Tower and it was way too short. The place was clean and comfortable with all amenities for self catering available. Comfy bed and clean linen! Only negative was that the hot water didn't work properly so showering wasn't pleasant. Bedroom could do with a mosquito net for the summer time. But all in all - a thoroughly enjoyable and comfy place to stay. Highly recommended!"
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"Thanks"
05 May 2014"It is very cute and we enjoyed our stay. I would just have liked to be warned about the toilet."
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"Aandster June 2013"
05 June 2013"Very comfortable and well equipped. We had a fantastic time. Lovely garden for the dogs."
