Hotel Celebrates Decade Of Community Partnerships

The Drostdy Hotel a 48-room, boutique, five-star property in Graaff-Reinet, Eastern Cape celebrated a decade of its partnership with the non-profit South African College for Tourism SACT focused on empowering marginalised communities through hospitality training. Originally built in 1804, the hotel has become a key heritage destination in South Africa, combining history with modern luxury.

The Drostdy Hotel was donated to SACT in 2014 by the Rupert Family Foundation after extensive renovations. Since then, it has served as a platform for SACTs mission of offering hospitality training to rural youth with focus on women. The initiative includes Tracker Academy aimed at preserving traditional tracking skills and fostering eco-tourism.

Tony Romer-Lee , Valor Hospitality Partners Co-Founder and Managing Partner: Africa, Middle East and Asia, highlighted the impact of this partnership: By nurturing local talent, were ensuring a thriving future for the tourism industry.

The hotels history dates back to its construction by architect Louis Thibault during the Dutch occupation. It transitioned into a hotel in 1878 and was later restored and declared a national monument in 1975. The Rupert Family Foundations involvement has ensured the buildings legacy is preserved while integrating modern hospitality services.

Director John Loftie-Eaton reaffirmed the hotels commitment to its heritage: We have honoured the heritage of this remarkable building yet elevated it to luxury accommodation, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of the Karoos future.