History
A Century of Hospitality in Namaqualand
Celebrating 100 years!
Celebrating 100 years in 2025, the Kamieskroon Hotel has been a landmark of Namaqualand’s hospitality since its founding in 1925. Passed through generations of dedicated owners, it remains a cherished retreat, preserving the region’s rich history and welcoming travellers from near and far.
The History of the Kamieskroon Hotel
Celebrating 100 years in 2025, the Kamieskroon Hotel has been a landmark of Namaqualand’s hospitality since its founding in 1925. Passed through generations of dedicated owners, it remains a cherished retreat, preserving the region’s rich history and welcoming travellers from near and far.
Celebrating 100 Years: The History of the Kamieskroon Hotel
The Kamieskroon Hotel, established in 1925 by Joe Josephson and Max Schapera, is a cornerstone of Namaqualand’s history. Situated at the foot of the Kamiesberg mountains, the hotel was born in the heart of a region renowned for its rugged beauty and vibrant wildflower displays..
It is believed that the name Kamiesberg derives from the Khoikhoi word “Th’amies,” meaning “jumble,” a term that may describe the scattered rock formations characteristic of the region. The area holds cultural and historical significance, particularly to the Khoikhoi people, who were the region’s original inhabitants.
The village of Kamieskroon itself has an intriguing past. Apart from the hotel, the general store was once the hub of Kamieskroon, serving as a vital meeting place for locals. It still houses many treasures from days gone by and is lovingly known by the community as the Kamieskroon Museum. Under the guardianship of Gert and Martie Koegelenberg, it will be re-opened, with its historical artifacts carefully curated and put on display for visitors to experience a glimpse into the past.
Initially founded as Bowesdorp in the 1860s, it relocated to its current site in the 1920s due to water scarcity and development challenges. This move coincided with the construction of the Dutch Reformed Church in 1924, and the Kamieskroon Hotel became a vital part of this growing community.
In 1953, the Kamieskroon Hotel entered a new chapter when it was purchased by SJP “Fanie” Stone and his wife, Maria. Together, they laid a strong foundation for the hotel’s reputation as a welcoming and hospitable retreat.
After Fanie’s passing in 1968, their daughter Colla and her husband, Coenie Swart, took over the reins. Under their stewardship, the hotel flourished as a centre of community and culture.
Colla Swart’s passion for photography led to a collaboration with renowned photographer Freeman Patterson. Together, they established the Namaqualand Photographic Workshops, which attracted photographers from around the globe. These workshops added a new dimension to the hotel’s role as a cultural hub in the region.
In 1997, the hotel’s legacy was entrusted to Colla and Coenie’s daughter, Maryna, and her husband, Helmut Kohrs. Their dedication to blending the hotel’s historical charm with modern amenities ensured its continued success as a beloved destination for local and international travellers.
Now, 100 years later, the Kamieskroon Hotel is entering an exciting new chapter under the ownership of Gert and Martie Koegelenberg. Both born and raised in Namaqualand, the Koegelenberg’s have a deep familial connection to Kamieskroon and a strong commitment to preserving the hotel’s rich legacy. They aim to honour the traditions of the past while infusing fresh energy and vision to ensure the hotel remains a cherished destination for generations to come.
The Hotel Today
Today, the Kamieskroon Hotel remains a cherished landmark in Namaqualand. With its rich history, tranquil atmosphere, and proximity to the Namaqua National Park, the hotel continues to offer an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and history buffs alike.
From its origins as a modest six-room inn to its status as a cultural and natural treasure, the Kamieskroon Hotel embodies the enduring spirit of Namaqualand.
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Why wait? Experience genuine country hospitality, serene nature, and mouthwatering food today!