IF YOU GO . . .
WHERE IT IS: 13km north of Tulbagh, against the rump of the Winterhoek Mountains.
WHY GO THERE: Aside from the quiet, the Tulbagh valley has some top wineries, including Twee Jonge Gezellen, Saronsberg, Lemberg and Fable Mountain Vineyards. There are wonderful walks on the slopes behind the farm and mountain bikers will find plenty of dusty farm roads to discover.
WHAT IT OFFERS: Three free-standing cottages set a short distance apart. Stone Cottage is the largest, with a spacious living area and indoor fireplace making it your best bet for rainy winter escapes. River Cottage is idyllic on warm evenings, with a large patio and outdoor braai area leading into an open-plan living room. Fig Cottage is the simplest option, best for couples who plan to spend most of their time walking in the mountains beyond.
Both Stone and River cottages sleep five in two bedrooms. Fig Cottage sleeps four, but two will be on a bunk bed in the lounge. Each cottage is equipped with all the bedding, pots and pans needed for your weekend escape. Firewood is available for purchase and if the ancient pomegranate tree is in fruit you’ll likely find a few waiting in your fruit bowl.
The cottages are ideally suited to a group booking all three — romantic couples may find themselves cheek-by-jowl with noisy families like, well, mine.
There are three campsites further up the hill, with plenty of shade but not much grass. Pets are not allowed on the farm.
AND THE FOOD: Self-catering all the way. Unless the rain keeps you indoors, your best bet is a braai. Tulbagh has a few caféstyle restaurants if you fancy lunch in town.
RATES: R600-700 per cottage per night. R90/R50 per adult/child for camping.
GETTING THERE: Isle of Sky Farms is situated roughly 120km from Cape Town. From the N1, follow the R44 through Wellington, then the R46 through the Nuwekloof Pass. Follow signs to Tulbagh, and then through town towards “Winterhoek”. The farm is signposted shortly after Theron’s Bridge.
CONTACT: Visit isleofskyfarms.co.za , call 023 230 0545 or e-mail accommodation@isleofskyfarms.co.za.