Amalienstein, near Zoar and situated close to Ladismith (approximately 350km from Cape Town), offers a feast for the tourist interested in the rich mission station history of the Western Cape.

The town and Lutheran mission station forms part of an area that is known as the Little Karoo. This area is semi-arid with jagged cliffs and gorges forming the landscape.

Amalienstein is a mission station with a strong link to its past. It derives its name from Frau Amalie Von Stein, who provided the funds to Berlin missionaries who bought it in 1850 to accommodate the people who were involved with the Zoar Mission community.

A church was completed in Amalienstein in 1853 and was recently restored to its full glory. The historic graveyard was also restored.

The farm was sold to Messrs Jan Hofmeyer and Roux in 1938, and in 1986, the former House of Representatives bought the farm with the aim of developing it as a community farm for the people of Zoar.

In 1990, LANOK, a Land Development Company, was requested to develop and manage Amalienstein to the advantage of the community of Zoar.

The development of Amalienstein's Tourism potential is in fact a Development Project. It is an attempt to train and empower this previously disadvantaged group to develop and manage tourism as an economic viable industry.

What to do:

Seweweekspoort:
This majestic pass made up of an impressive array of cliffs and gorges links the areas known as the Little Karoo and the Great Karoo. There are may things to do here:
* short walks to the Tierkloof Dam
* The area is suitable for bicycle rides and hiking.
Breathtaking scenery awaits the visitor who chooses this option.

Tea Room
* This traditional tea-room will surprise the curious visitor with tasty home-made pastries and honey tea. Visitors can purchase handmade crafts here.

Hoeko Valley
* Visit the birthplace of famous South African poet, CJ Langenhoven in the nearby Hoeko Valley.