ABOUT THE GUESTHOUSE

Aletta Erasmus opened Carlton Heights Guesthouse in 1998 and it was the very first farm stay in the area at that time. She has received many guests over the years, including hosting and catering large functions. Her daughter-in-law, Yolandi Erasmus, now continues her legacy of true Karoo hospitality and quality service. The original farmhouse building was erected in the early 1900s. Renovations were done, and new additions were added in 1991 to give it the arch design it has today.

ABOUT BESKUITFONTEIN

The Erasmus family have farmed on Beskuitfontein for three generations. Stefan Erasmus farmed with his father for several years, after which formally taking over all operations in 2014. Both Stefan and his dad, Pieter, have a deep love and appreciation for the Karoo with all its challenges and complexities. They have both been honoured with Eastern Cape Farmer of the Year awards, and constantly strive to improve the farm and the practices they follow. Farming on Beskuitfontein is a family business, with Aletta and Yolandi being very involved with the farming activities.

Before moving to the farm, Aletta was Chief Magistrate in Middelburg and Yolandi worked as a plant ecologist. Together the Erasmus family are committed to the sustainable use and improvement/restoration of Karoo veld, with new technologies and research continually being implemented. Beskuitfontein’s core business is rearing Merino sheep and Bonsmara cattle. Beskuitfontein is certified with the Responsible Wool Standard and also plays an active role in organised agriculture and other community upliftment initiatives.