You’ve bought the Hunter wellington boots, you have the trendy check shirt, you’re into rustic artisan food and you long for the simple life. It seems like the country is calling and it’s about time you picked up. Picture your boots squelching through mud or crunching their way across the fallen terracotta leaves of Autumn while you breathe in the pristine air and absorb the fresh farm smells. Just a few hours outside of the city of Cape Town, there are undulating farmlands peppered with quaint country cottages and sprawling working farms. Gone are the days when staying on a farm meant milking cows and shovelling you-know-what. Modern day country stays have allowed us to bring a bit of chic living combined with the simple life. From working farms, to rustic country cottages and ultra-luxurious homesteads; there are plenty of options available.
Here are a few of our favourites:
Bartholomeus Klip Farmhouse in the Riebeek Valley
Located on a working sheep and wheat farm, and game reserve in the Riebeek Valley, Bartholomeus Klip farmhouse certainly sets the standard in terms of farm stays. A traditional house comprising five rooms is located on well-manicured lawns. There’s a saltwater swimming pool, game drives through the 10, 000 acre nature reserve, a dam on site for a spot of kayaking or fishing, and plenty of areas to explore. The food is superb and guests can expect five star cuisine, high tea and exquisite surrounds. For families with young children, guests can enjoy privacy of the Wild Olive House and Cottage.
Babylonstoren Farm Hotel in the Franschhoek Winelands
Babylonstoren is an ancient and rather historical Cape Dutch farmhouse. With cascading fruit and vegetable gardens, this farm attracts plenty of visitors who love nothing more than to weave their way through the abundant gardens. Hidden among the gardens are the farm cottages – there are two suites and two cottages, each with minimalist yet classic farm decor. Offering fine, fresh produce, exquisite meals and plenty to do; Babylonstoren is a must for those that love organic eating. Country cuisine at its best!
Jan Harmsgat Country House in Swellendam
Swellendam is in the heart of the picturesque countryside and is often overlooked in favour of more touristy destinations. However, this place epitomises country living. Surrounded by lush landscapes and ideally located at the foot of the mountain, there’s plenty of scope for outdoor activities. Jan Harmsgat is a quaint country house with the typical Cape Dutch style thatched roofs and white walls. There’s a vineyard on this working farm and guests can drown themselves in the five star treatment on offer! Luxury meets Cape farming.
