Long before the village was established, De Rust had already been a place to outspan and rest before challenging the route through the poort. In 1900 De Rust was established on a portion of Meiring's farm.

The area is malaria-free, safe with a very low crime rate and we pride ourselves on a fantastic climate - beautiful sunny winter days with cool nights. Summers are perfect, hot and sunny.

The town itself is peaceful and tree lined with excellent examples of late 19th century architecture. Our drinking water from a mountain spring puts expensive bottled water to shame.

What to do in De Rust

• The botanical diversity of MEIRINGSPOORT is truly exceptional. The plant species in this area is so rich that it would be difficult to rival in a similar sized area elsewhere in the world.The road through the poort also takes the visitor through no less than four recognised veldt types. Experience the Waterfall, Story of the Mermaid and "Herrie se klip"
• Stompdriftdam: Biggest dam in the Klein Karoo - water sport and fishing.
• The old Slave dams: Built in 1834
• The centuries old sedimentary layers in the picturesque Red Hills at Le Roux Station: In 1989, the Red Hills were declared as a national natural heritage site.
• Mons Ruber: Wine bar in remembrance of the 1947 visit by the British Royal Family.
• Die Gat en Vredelust Farm stalls
• NG Church and church Hall
• Via Dolorosa: Zig-zag path against the Dysselsdorp Hill
• Liquorice factory at Hazenjacht
• Anglo-Boer War graveyard at Klaarstroom
• Swartberg Circle Route