Fransie Pienaar Museum

General information

Prince Albert is a delightful, historic Victorian village in the Great Karoo of the Western Cape. Situated at the foot of the Swartberg Mountain range the town is blessed with a perennial water supply which belies the reputation of this arid region.

The climate is superb with an extremely high sunshine index, spectacular night skies and pure clean air. The village is a well preserved gem, with water furrows and beautifully preserved Cape Dutch, Karoo and Victorian buildings – thirteen of which are listed National Monuments and there are a further five in the district, including the Swartberg Pass and Gamkaskloof (The Hell).

The village has undergone a recent growth spurt and is fast becoming a much sought after tourist destination.

Prince Albert is world renowned for its sun-ripened fresh and dried fruit, particularly apricots and figs. Karoo lamb, olives, olive oil and home-made cheeses are other delicious local delicacies to entice visitors. Prince Albert forms part of the mohair producing region of South Africa and is home to champion breeders of Angora goats. The region is also emerging as a quality wine producing area. Prince Albert has one of the oldest and last remaining watermills in South Africa.