A Few Fine Farm Stays
KEZLYN FARM COTTAGES, Bergville, KZN There are just three units (one is petfriendly), which all face the majestic mountains, and each features sleek modern finishes with a slightly bohemian flair. All have spacious verandas overlooking the Drakensberg, great braai facilities and decent Wi-Fi if you need to work remotely. From R700 pps
072 244 6491 facebook: Kezlyn Farm Cottages
FARMHOUSE 58, Cradle of Humankind Answer the call to reconnect with nature by checking into one of these minimalist suites. Book a guided hike that incorporates mindfulness and conversation with Epic Hikes and don’t miss a meal at And Then There Was Fire (andthentherewasfire.com) at the sprawling Nirox Sculpture Park (niroxarts.com) across the road.
From R1 200 pps with breakfast
087 092 9097, farmhouse58.co
KLEIN NEKTAR FARM COTTAGE, Montagu There are plenty of pretty farm stays in and around Montagu, but this self-catering pad is a favourite. Being within walking distance of the cafes and padstals, it enjoys the best of the village in an off-the-grid and Wi-Fifree farm environment.
From R540 pps
064 908 2444, kleinnektar.com
11 KARKLOOF, Howick
The Apartment might be the most popular option, but the five cottages are equally lovely (the midweek deal of R375 pps is an absolute steal) and share the same environment. Shops at the artisan hub are open Thursday to Sunday and there’s even a gym with classes from R100 per session. Hot tip: order bread (there’s potato and rosemary or even snacky cheese sticks) in advance from Home Slice Cafe. Weekends from R550 pps with breakfast at The Apartment; R450 pps self-catering cottages
060 470 1218, 11karkloof.co.za
KALMOESFONTEIN, Malmesbury Enjoy the fresh air, farm animals and special produce at this humble farm stay about an hour from Cape Town; there are several beautiful units scattered across the farm. Book a cellar tour in advance or plan your visit to coincide with Thursday pizza night and rub shoulders with the Swartlander regulars.
From R550 pps at The Stables (sleeps four; two-night minimum)
079 652 6101, kalmoesfontein.com
ROSEMARY HILL, Tshwane
Booked up months in advance, this farm stay near the city combines handsome cabins with a range of outdoor activities on an organic estate. Enjoy mountain-bike trails, running and hiking routes, which share the farm with wild rabbits, donkeys, horses, goats, sheep and more. The latest accommodation additions are The Hideout (an elevated forest cabin with a hot tub) and The Cove (a fun geometric dome). From R1 290 pn for two breakfast included 012 802 0052, rosemaryhill.co.za