It all started with a forced stop. We were on a road trip when the urgent need for stable internet, a table, and good coffee led us to the nearest town: De Rust. We were immediately taken by its charm. What was meant to be a one-night stopover magically turned into four, and by the end of our stay, we weren't just visitors anymore—we had a plan. Our love for animals, especially cats, has always been a guiding force in our lives. We knew we had to name our new venture after our most cherished rescue, Emma. Her story is one of resilience and love. At just ten days old, she and her littermates were abandoned during one of Pretoria’s fierce storms. We took them in, bottle-feeding the fragile kittens around the clock and hoping to find them loving homes. But the quietest of the bunch, the little runt, had already made her choice. Emma had found her forever home with us. She grew into the matriarch of our household, a gentle queen who, season after season, helped us raise and nurture new litters of abandoned kittens, showing them the ropes of "how to cat." Emma’s Place De Rust was born from that very same spirit. It’s a place built on the foundations of care, the warmth of comfort, and the joy of unexpected discovery. We invite you to experience the same sense of belonging and serendipity that brought us here, and that Emma shares with every soul that crosses our threshold. Whilst you sadly won't get to meet Emma when staying with us, her spirit lives on. You may, however, have the privilege of meeting some of our other rescues, including her sister Widget and some of the older cats that Emma helped to raise. That is, if they deem you worthy!

Come and kick off your shoes at our cozy Karoo homestead, a true gem tucked away in the heart of De Rust with the rugged Swartberg mountains as your playground. Our home offers two welcoming rooms, full of character and warmth. For those looking to settle in for a bit longer, our charming, self-contained cottage provides the perfect rustic hideaway. Take a plunge in the communal pool to cool off after a day of adventure, and park your vehicle safely with us. This is the perfect spot to disconnect and enjoy the simple, beautiful things in life.

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Swartberg mountains, the charming Victorian town of De Rust is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the Klein Karoo. This picturesque village, whose name translates to "The Rest," was historically a resting place for travelers and has evolved into a haven for artists and creatives seeking a peaceful lifestyle. The town's main street is lined with beautifully preserved Victorian buildings, housing a delightful array of art galleries, antique shops, and quaint eateries. A key tip for visitors is to take a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking up the unique atmosphere. De Rust serves as the perfect base for exploring the region's natural wonders. A must-see is the breathtaking Meiringspoort Pass, a scenic 25km drive through a gorge with stunning sandstone cliffs and opportunities for picnics and swimming in crystal-clear mountain streams. The pass is also home to a spectacular 60-meter waterfall. For the more adventurous, the nearby Swartberg Pass offers a thrilling drive with panoramic views. Points of interest within easy reach include the world-renowned Cango Caves, local ostrich farms, and the Stompdrift Dam, ideal for fishing and water sports. The area is also part of the Klein Karoo Wine Route, with several local wineries offering tastings of their award-winning dessert wines, brandies, and other varietals. For a unique natural experience, visit the Red Hills, a National Heritage site featuring red-colored open caves. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a touch of artistic inspiration, De Rust offers a memorable escape.