Umtali Country Inn

The Umtali Country Inn, located in Aliwal North, Eastern Cape, South Africa, is a well-established accommodation facility that has been operating for over 60 years. Situated halfway between Bloemfontein and East London, the inn serves as an ideal stopover destination and exploration base.

The property features 33 luxury en-suite rooms, all equipped with air-conditioning, tea/coffee making facilities, and satellite television. Room configurations include Budget Rooms, Standard Rooms, and Superior Rooms, with king-sized beds that can be converted to twin beds upon request. Family rooms accommodating up to five people are available, particularly during December holidays.

The inn offers comprehensive facilities including two conference venues that can accommodate up to 80 delegates, a restaurant serving breakfast and dinner, a small ladies bar, swimming pool, and beautiful gardens. Additional amenities include Wi-Fi in public areas, laundry services, secure parking, and wheelchair accessibility. The property is also child-friendly and located in a malaria-free zone.

Aliwal North, situated on the Orange River's south bank, offers various attractions including museums, war sites, Buffelsbron Nature Reserve, Gariep Dam, and activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. The area features private nature reserves, 4x4 adventures, fossil sites, and is approximately 200km from Tiffendell Ski Resort.

The inn's history dates back to 1962, when it began as a collection of rondavels later converted into a motel. Named after a town in Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands, the Umtali Country Inn has maintained its distinctive character while undergoing several modernizing improvements over the years.