Nestled in the charming town of Prince Albert, in the heart of the breathtaking Karoo, lies Gay’s Guernsey Dairy – a family-run treasure that captures the spirit of wholesome, natural living. Since its founding in 1990 by Gay van Hasselt, the dairy has grown from a small stone kraal with three cows to an internationally acclaimed producer of exceptional dairy products.
Gay’s journey began modestly, selling fresh milk to local customers who arrived with empty containers for their daily supply. Recognizing a growing demand, she obtained a license and began supplying milk to schools and the Prince Albert hotel. Faced with surplus milk during school holidays, Gay delved into yoghurt-making, winning over the initially sceptical community by introducing them to the creamy delight at local functions.
Determined to expand further, Gay attended a cheesemaking course at Elsenburg Agricultural College. Starting small with a 20-liter cooler box, she soon transformed her experimentation into a full-scale operation, using creative methods like plastic buckets and bricks to craft her cheeses. Today, Gay’s cheeses are celebrated across the globe, with prestigious awards from London, Dublin, and France.
Now under the stewardship of Gay’s daughter Claudia, the dairy continues to thrive, while staying true to its roots. Every product – from the rich, creamy yoghurt to the artisanal cheeses – is made with full-cream, raw Guernsey milk from their own herd of free-ranging, happy cows. This dedication to quality and sustainability is the heart of their success.
Gay’s Guernsey Dairy has become a cornerstone of Prince Albert, offering locals and visitors a warm, authentic experience. Their plaas deli is stocked with mouthwatering cheeses, yoghurt, fresh produce, and other local goodies. Visitors can also book tours for a behind-the-scenes look at the dairy’s operations.
At Gay’s Guernsey Dairy, located in the enchanting town of Prince Albert, tradition, community, and environmental stewardship blend to create dairy products that are as delightful as the Karoo itself.