GOEDEHOOP FARM STAY

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The stone rondavel on Goedehoop is right on the water’s edge, but miles from civilization. The water in question is a dam built on a tributary of the Vaal River. Close to the house you can stroll over the 27 m-long “Natural Erosion Bridge” – a rock arch that crosses the Vaal. It’s historically significant, since both Voortrekkers and Anglo-Boer War forces used the bridge to cross the river. Farm owner Michelle Engelbrecht says kids from the local schools come and visit on history excursions.

The property is 1 400 ha in size – the Engelbrechts farm with cattle, soy and maize. The Smitsfield Wedding Venue is next door and guests often use the off-thegrid rondavel on Goedehoop to get ready before the big event.

Michelle admits they don’t often have visitors during winter. The Highveld is known for its icy weather and wind chill – and the odd tornado. The farm is also 5° C cooler on average than nearby Ermelo.

But the rondavel is cosy, with a wood stove and fireplace, four single beds in the loft (great for the kids), a double bed in a separate room, one bathroom, a kitchen nook and a large living and dining area. Daredevils listen up: There’s a swimming hole nearby where you can jump off a 12 m cliff into crystal clear water. Michelle grew up on the farm and braved the leap many times as a youngster, but she admits with age and wisdom comes a bit more caution…

Facilities: A small lapa offers seating, a built-in braai and a portable braai, and guests can use the cottage’s canoe for a paddle on the dam.

Rates: R1 600 for up to six people.

Where? Goedehoop is south of Chrissiesmeer. The turn-off to the farm is 44 km from town if you take the N17 almost all the way to Ermelo, then the road east to Lothair. (Or take the 27 km shortcut by following the dirt road south past Miss Chrissie’s Country House and then turning right onto the Lothair/Ermelo road.)

Contact: 082 784 5248