Season three of Bridgerton, everyone’s favourite racy Regency-era series, has just dropped, and we can’t get enough of it. But did you know there is a little piece of Oudtshoorn in this hot-on-trend Shondaland Netflix drama?
The ostrich feathers quivering on the opulent hats and costumes, in the lush décor, and accessorising the lead heroine, Penelope Featherington (it’s even in her name), came from our humble Klein Karoo ostriches.
Oudtshoorn is deservedly the world’s ‘Ostrich Capital’ – the surrounding Karoo ostrich farms produce 80% of the world’s ostrich products. And our feathers? The finest of them all – symmetrical, fluffy but strong. They were even worth more than their weight in gold at the height of their demand in the 1880s.
They feature in headdresses, hats and costumes in the Rio Carnival, Moulin Rouge, and other international films and series too.
You can also rest assured that the feathers are trimmed responsibly, and the industry’s regulations and codes ensure the ostriches are treated humanely.
Feathery history
The legacy of the ostrich feather trade is part of the fabric of Oudtshoorn, and many of the feather baron’s palatial manors still exist today. They are often described as ‘wedding cakes’ due to their ‘broekie lace’ trellis work, tiers of turrets and balconies, ornate mouldings, and manicured gardens. So if there is ever a South African Bridgerton, this would be the ideal setting.
T
here is even a suburb in Oudtshoorn called Bridgeton, but it’s nothing like the series. However, there are other areas in Oudtshoorn where you can have your own romantic Regency adventure…
Here are our top five recommendations for a Bridgerton escape in Oudtshoorn (and a little something extra!):
1. See the feather baron palaces of the Klein Karoo: Take a turn down the main streets of Oudtshoorn to see the ‘wedding cake’ mansions. You can also visit the CP Nel Museum (housed in an impressive Victorian building), to learn more about the history of the town and ostrich feather trade.
2. Go horseback riding with Klein Karoo Horse Adventures
What could be more romantic than a horseback ride under the light of the moon? You can do just that with Klein Karoo Horse Adventures’ Full Moon Outride. Or choose their daylight rides stopping off for a picnic.
3. Have tea at Café Brûlé
Trust the locals – this is their favourite spot for tea, scones, and (in true Whistledown fashion) gossip in Oudtshoorn.
4. Shop at the Klein Karoo Ostrich Emporium
From feather boas, to ostrich leather handbags and shoes in Bridgerton-worthy colours (pink, blue, yellow), to nifty gifts, this is the place to pick up your latest fashion accessories.
5. Stay at Queen’s Hotel by BON Hotels
Built just after the Regency period, this grand heritage hotel has been welcoming guests (including people in the feather and fashion trade) uninterrupted since 1880. It has kept its elegant air but now has all the modern creature comforts too.
And if you are looking for a venue for a Bridgerton-style event or wedding, it’s the perfect spot. The team will put together a dreamy package of blooming bouquets and romantic décor (with a few ostrich feathers perhaps?), and make it as smooth as a Bridgerton ball.
A little something extra! Pack some LUSH X Bridgerton treats
Rose body wash, meadowy perfume, and Crème Anglaise body lotion – just some of the items in LUSH’s new Bridgerton-themed limited edition that comes out this July 2024. Perfect to set the mood or make your bathtime at Queen’s Hotel at BON Hotels even more regal!
Ready to live out your own South African Bridgerton fantasy? Take advantage of our Cosy Winter Special with room rates from R950 per night – contact Queen’s Hotel by BON Hotels to book now. We’ll arrange a Regency-style adventure fit for a, well, queen!
