A Hideaway Among the Mountains

Many people associate the words self-catering, private, pet-friendly, and off-the-grid with roughing it, having few amenities, needing to pack-horse a car with everything from home but the kitchen sink, and being uncomfortably cut off from the rest of the world. If you are one of these people, let me introduce you to a place that is going to change your mindset about off-thebeaten-track getaways.

Situated on a picturesque citrus and rooibos mountain estate, overlooking lush orchards and the grandiose Cederberg, is Petersfield Mountain Cottages – selfcatering accommodation in style. The 2,500 hectare mountain wilderness area on which the cottages are built is lush in pristine, indigenous fynbos, mountain koppies, and plenty of hiking trails. Petersfield is nothing short of a gem in

terms of what it has to offer for those who want to be immersed in nature.

The four cottages are situated more than one kilometre apart from each other, ensuring that guests enjoy utmost privacy. They are also charming, thoughtfully designed, beautifully decorated, and fully-equipped with all the conveniences one needs in order to arrive with just food, drinks, and lots of time to relax. Dassieklip

The emphasis at Dassieklip is not only on complete privacy, but also on utmost comfort. Situated under towering oak trees next to a running stream in a mountain kloof, this beautiful cottage comes equipped with every modern convenience. The cottage encompasses a fully-equipped kitchen with stove, fridge, and microwave, as well as air-conditioning (it can get hot in the Summer), Jetmaster

The 2,000 hectare mountain wilderness area on which the cottages are built is lush in pristine, indigenous fynbos, mountain koppies, and plenty of hiking trails.

fireplace, TV, well-appointed bathroom, and the beautifully tasteful interior has been planned with guests’ comfort in mind. Outside, a braai area and sparkling plunge pool with natural spring water adds to the rustic luxury of this wellmaintained space that is perfect for couples, families, or friends. With two bedrooms (one with a double bed and the other with two singles) as well as two day beds in the lounge, Dassieklip can accommodate up to six people.

De Kom

De Kom is the only cottage of the four that is completely off the electricity grid. Situated two kilometres from the other cottages, set in a natural mountain basin, De Kom is the most secluded of the lot. This charming two-bedroom cottage has a similar set up in terms of sleeping arrangements as Dassieklip. De Kom is also fully-equipped with all the kitchen and bathroom appliances running off gas with gas lamps , as well as LED lamps and solar jars, for lighting to add to that unique mountain ambiance. The lounge has an indoor fireplace and double French doors, opening up onto an undercover veranda with a braai and private plunge pool. De Kom is situated only 300 m from a secluded mountain dam which offers an alternate swimming spot and is very popular with those bringing their furry friends along. Small game like dassies and other fynbos creatures abound at De Kom, and guests can even observe eagles hunting basking dassies on the cliffs around the cottage.

Stonehaven

If romance is what you are after, Stonehaven is the place. Set high up on the mountainside, this cottage boasts panoramic views of the valley and mountains and is surrounded by lush fynbos and sandstone formations. Accommodating just one couple, with an emphasis on romantic ambiance, the open-plan design with beautiful queensize brass bed incorporates the bedroom, lounge, kitchen, and dining area. While there is a bathroom with shower separate to the room, the large double bath is in the bedroom with a magnificent view onto the veld for couples to savour while enjoying a bubble bath together in complete privacy. Stonehaven is solarpowered with the exception of the stove and geyser that are gas operated. Like the other cottages, it also comes with a veranda, built-in braai, and private pool with pool loungers, completing the feeling of laidback mountain luxury.

Die Veepos

Die Veepos is the most spacious cottage, offering a luxury experience in the mountains for larger groups of friends or families. Situated right next to a beautiful rock outcrop, with outstanding views, this enchanting cottage is elegantly decorated and laid out with a spacious open-plan living area with a large indoor fireplace (big enough to make an indoor potjie on a cold Winters evening). Die Veepos has three bedrooms (one queen size bed, two singles, and two threequarter beds) as well as a full bathroom and fully-equipped kitchen with gas stove and fridge. Doors to the living room open onto a spacious veranda complete with built-in braai and sparkling, spring water plunge pool, and, on the other side, a sunny stoep great for al fresco breakfasts. Unique additions to Die Veepos include the blissful outdoor shower set in the rocks and the private, semi-enclosed outdoor bath with staggering mountain and valley views.

Petersfield Mountain Cottages is truly in a league of its own. I am yet to experience anything else quite like it in South Africa and urge anyone I meet to experience it for themselves to really understand the magic of the place. It is a paradise for humans and four-legged friends alike.

For more information, please visit www.petersfieldfarm.co.za.