Prince Albert was founded in 1762 on the loan farm 'De Queek Vallei' with Zacharias De Beer as its first incumbent. Originally known as Albertsburg, it was renamed Prince Albert in honour of Queen Victoria's consort, Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg, on obtaining municipal status in 1845
The village has many well-preserved Cape Dutch, vernacular Karoo and Victorian buildings, thirteen of which are National Monuments. New Karoo architecture based on agrarian volumes by contemporary South African architects is also to be found - indeed Prince Albert is the only Karoo town featuring this stimulating mix. A refurbished Art Deco, 140 seat theatre for musical, cinematic and other performances complements its rich architectural heritage
There are several olive farms with oil presses, wine and export fruit farms in the area, as well as sheep farms and a specialised export mohair trade. Birding, hiking, cycling and stargazing are other pursuits for visitors. The area is well known for its hardy endemic veld plants and is frequently a destination for international botanists. Winter rains and snowfall on the mighty Swartberg ensure a permanent flow of sparkling mountain water in furrows throughout the historic town
Cottage: 65 m2 interior, outside terraces 30m2. House: 212 m2 interior, upper living terrace 55 m2. In total: 2 fully furnished kitchens, 2 living/dining areas, 1 library/TV room, 3 bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, 2 storage rooms, 1 outdoor toilet with washbasin, 1 laundry, 1 double carport, 1 garden shed, courtyard swimming pool, exterior fountain pool. Additional: valid (2 yrs) extension plans for additional 2 en suite bedroom block.