Bailey Country House boasts a rich heritage that spans six generations, deeply rooted in the history of the Eastern Cape Frontier. Originally constructed by Thomas Bailey, the property has seen a dynamic evolution over the years. Thomas Bailey not only built the house but also established a trading post and a hotel, contributing significantly to the local community which once included a police station, shop, and school. In the 1930s, the hotel and police station were closed, marking the end of an era. Upon Thomas Bailey's passing, the property was inherited by Abe Bailey, who later sold it—along with the trading post—to Albert Arthur Breetzke. Abe Bailey, who became a renowned diamond magnate (Sir Abe Bailey), left a lasting legacy. The trading post continued its operations under Albert Arthur Breetzke and his successors, Stanley Basil Breetzke. Following Stanley's death, the property was passed to Keith Arthur Breetzke, while the trading store was sold. Today, Bailey Country House is a working cattle farm that was purchased by Derek Breetzke with the vision to renovate and transform the property into a welcoming destination for travelers. The vision for Bailey Country House is to provide more than just a place to stay. It’s a convenient stop along the N6, offering guests a gateway to explore the stunning landscapes and eco-tourism activities of the area. Experience the charm and history of Bailey Country House, where tradition meets modern hospitality in a setting designed to inspire exploration and relaxation.

Bailey Country House is situated on a working free range organic beef production farm with naturally occuring wildlife, our history on site traces back over 6 generations to early South Africa and provides the property with historic charm, the original farmhouse being constructed in the early eighteen hundreds. The current owner had the idea to extensively renovate and make the property accessible to the public to share in beauty of what this part of the world has to offer the nature and bird lover. Our historic shearing shed has been renovated into a bookable venue for significant life events and the house coupled with the campsite and ablution facilities make us a good choice for weddings and events with a difference. The farm is situated in the Eastern Cape of South Africa with a rich cultural heritage of rock art, frontier skirmishes and a story to tell of generations living in harmony with nature. The farmyard boasts a typical South African scene of free range chickens, horses nearby, kids play area, a natural biopool along with a huge concrete reservoir converted into a swimming pool for those hot summer days.

The town, nestled along the Komani River within the Great Kei system and surrounded by rugged mountains, benefits from a plentiful water supply. The Bongolo Dam, located in the hills, supports recreation and watersports. Every June, the town hosts an art exhibition featuring paintings and sculpture, celebrating local creativity against a stunning natural backdrop The town’s layout, originally designed as a defensive stronghold, features a distinctive hexagonal central area from which six thoroughfares radiate. This design allowed for strategic defense with cannon or rifle fire. Today, the cannon sites have been transformed into gardens and a central fountain, which was later replaced by an abstract sculpture for the town’s 150th anniversary. The hexagonal layout persists, with Robinson Road encircling it. To the east and west of the Hexagon, the town hosts commercial and administrative facilities.