South Africa's only restaurant in a cave, Kaaimans Grotto, is up for sale for an asking price of R2,2-million.

The unique venue, which is situated on the seaside cliffs at the Kaaimans River near George and can only be reached by train track, attracts thousands of visitors each year. One of the largest venues on the Garden Route, it is popular for functions.

MD Johan Coetzee said the business was up for sale because its directors were pursuing other interests.

He said the sale included the long-term lease agreement with Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe operator Transnet Heritage Foundation, which owns the property, as well as the engine-powered mini train and coaches that transport patrons to the restaurant.

"It also includes furniture, equipment and facilities at the Wilderness station," he said.

Originally started to meet the need for a seaside night venue, Kaaimans Grotto has been operating since 2002.

After months of environmental assessment studies, the installation of toilets and temporary electricity, the venue had its first big function in October that year.

Since then the cave floor has been decked out and electricity installed. The venue, which can seat between 160 and 270, has hosted weddings, major product launches and conferences.

Coetzee said the 65-metre deep, 12-metre wide and 13-metre high cave was amazingly flexible as a venue and had very good acoustics. A wooden deck outside the cave overlooks the sea and a staircase leads down to the beach.

Eastern Province Herald
 
Publisher: I-Net Bridge
Source: I-Net Bridge