The village of Nieu-Bethesda is set in a fertile valley of the Sneeuberg mountains beneath the Compassberg. Originally established as a mission station in 1875, it became a municipality about 1886.

Through it's isolation, the village has retained a rare historical and architectural integrity.

Popular as a retreat for artists, the unique appeal of the village and allure of the Owl House make this a place that no visitor should miss.

What to Do in Nieu Bethesda

The Owl House

The strange and wonderful Owl House created by Helen Martins in the 50s and made famous by Athol Fugard in The Road to Mecca.

Womans Co-op

Handmade items include slippers, ornaments and clothing made by Nieu Bethesda women.

Bethesda Arts Centre

Art and crafts created by locals.

Cement Owls & Wire Work

See local artists cement & wire creations In front of the Owl House

Ganora Excursions

Guided tours to Bushman & Khoi rock art, private fossil & artefact museum and a fossil walk

The Owl Shed

Figurines in all kinds of materials from wood to crystal

Frans Boekkoois Sculpture Studio and Gallery

Works of the acclaimed sculptor.

Nieu Ceramics

Ceramic studio

Jakobs Donkey Cart Tours

Guided tour

The Cemetery

Ggraves dating back hundreds of years

The Dutch Reformed Church

The imposing white church asserts its presence over the entire valley

The James Kitching Fossil Exploration Centre

Next to the owl House and tells the story of life in South Africa 253 million years ago during the Permian Period.

The Old Mill

A quaint stone building houses this ancient water mill with a great view.

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Accommodation Map

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