About A Thousand Stars
A Thousand Stars was established in 1998 when Elsi O’Connell purchased a charming property in the peaceful Karoo village of Nieu-Bethesda, South Africa. What began as her personal retreat soon became a welcoming space offering unique accommodation in Nieu-Bethesda, as well as a creative studio for her pottery and glass artwork.
Elsi was a passionate artist known for her pottery and glass portraits. She found joy in teaching children about art and spent countless hours behind the pottery wheel. Although she was a private person, Elsi loved sharing her space with others, offering visitors a cosy place to stay under the famously starry skies of Nieu-Bethesda. The name A Thousand Stars was inspired by the breathtaking views of the night sky that made this place so special.
A true traveller at heart, Elsi explored the world with wonder. From walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain to visiting the colourful landscapes of India and Peru, and journeying across South Africa, Elsi always chose to walk and connect deeply with the places she visited. But no place captured her heart more than her home in Nieu-Bethesda, nestled among the majestic mountains.
Honouring a Legacy and Rebuilding After the Storm
After Elsi’s passing in June 2022, she lovingly entrusted A Thousand Stars to her three grandchildren. Her wish was simple: continue to welcome travellers and long-term visitors to the place she called home.
In December 2022, tragedy struck when a severe flood swept through Nieu-Bethesda, leaving many properties damaged—including A Thousand Stars, where water reached knee-high levels inside the home and garage. The cleanup and renovation required months of effort, community support, and unwavering determination.
Thanks to the strength and generosity of the Nieu-Bethesda community, and the dedication of Elsi’s grandchildren, A Thousand Stars reopened in August 2023. Today, the spirit of Elsi lives on through every guest welcomed, every story shared, and every star admired in the quiet night sky.
We invite you to experience the magic of A Thousand Stars—a peaceful retreat where art, nature, and heartfelt hospitality come together.