Discover Aberdeen
Aberdeen, now officially named Xamdeboo, has a rich architectural character. Look out for Victorian houses and traditional Karoo cottages as you explore the town.
Leijntje
At Zeelandhuys, a place in the Great Karoo where memories are made.
Time to settle in
A place in the Great Karoo where memories are made. Where old and new, classic and modern, food and drink come together—at the dining table and at Leijntje, our guest cottage.
Here on the edge of the village, at Zeelandhuys, conversations turn into memories and cherished moments. Feel at home in our "Huyskamer" restaurant and let yourself be surprised by the cuisine. Visit us in Aberdeen, a village where time has stood still.
Make yourself at home
Situated on the property and separated by a small fence stands Leijntje, a Cape Dutch-style guest cottage for two. It has been thoughtfully furnished with a mix of restored antiques and new pieces crafted by Jan. This blend has allowed Jan and Astrid to create a unique atmosphere within the cottage, which features a modern interior.
Guests staying at Leijntje are served a five-course dinner on their first evening, which, like breakfast, is included in the rate. A second night is offered on a B&B basis, though a three-course dinner can be added upon request. Longer stays are on a self-catering basis; however, we are happy to stock the fridge and/or freezer for you by arrangement to make your stay even more enjoyable.
A bedroom and bathroom to retreat to, a living room to linger in and time that is entirely yours. Choose a stay that suits how you like to spend your days, and contact us to talk through the options and find the right arrangement for your visit.
A place at the table
Dinner or lunch is a reason to slow down and spend time together. Join us for a meal during your stay, or gather your own group for a private dinner at our Huyskamer restaurant without booking accommodation.
Get in touch to discuss the menu, number of courses and any dietary requirements before your visit. Your dinner will be a surprise menu.
Meet Jan and Astrid
In 2005, Jan and Astrid emigrated from the hospitable town of Sint-Oedenrode in the Dutch province of Brabant to the wine regions of South Africa. Thirteen years in Stellenbosch were followed by a game farm in Limpopo, where Astrid realised her dream of a small B&B with a "living room" style restaurant.
In 2025, they moved to Aberdeen—a small, dusty, yet incredibly hospitable village in the Karoo—to start all over again...
Room to look a little further
The Karoo opens out into broad plains and mountain horizons. Spend time discovering the town, or plan an outing to Camdeboo National Park and the Valley of Desolation. Its dolerite cliffs look out over the plains: a different perspective on the landscape around you.
Explore the surroundings
The wider Karoo
Open country, distant mountains and an expansive sky give the Karoo its sense of space. Take time to notice the changing light. On a clear night, look up: the stars are part of the experience too.
Graaff-Reinet
55km
The gem of the karoo, the oldest town in the province and the sixth oldest town in South Africa. It offers plenty of shops and lovely restaurants.
Camdeboo National Park
60km
Uniquely positioned in the heart of the karoo, Camdeboo National Park virtually surrounds the quaint and historic town of Graaff-Reinet in the Eastern Cape.
Let us plan your visit
Tell us when you would like to visit, how many people are coming and whether you would like to stay, dine or both. We will be in touch to discuss availability and arrangements.