OFF THE GRID — AND THEN SOME
LOCATION
Need to escape the rat race? Snyderskloof Karoo Cottage is the spot. Hidden amid the empty plains of the Karoo, 25km from the N1 at Matjiesfontein, Snyderskloof is astoundingly, gloriously remote. As one travelling companion put it, “Not even Google or the devil could find us here”.
And that’s precisely the charm of the place, with plenty of farm gates, cattle grates and gravel ruts separating you from reality. The silence will set your ears ringing.
FACILITIES
Built of local stone from the surrounding veld, Snyderskloof is a charming little spot. It offers two bedrooms – one double, one single – with another two single beds in the lounge. The bedrooms share a single bathroom with shower, so no soaks in the tub.
There’s no shortage of love and attention poured into this gem of a getaway, and thoughtful touches are everywhere. You’ll find home-baked biscuits on arrival, board games on the bookshelf and a box of blitz in case you forgot your own.
You’re totally off the grid, but the gas fridge will keep your beers cold and paraffin lanterns encourage a digital-detox.
The lounge — with a wide hearth for wintry fires — gives onto a shaded wooden terrace, where you’ll spend most of your time when the weather’s fine.
A step away is the shallow plunge pool (unfenced, so watch the kiddies), while a hammock swings lazily beneath the trees. Pack books, and bring friends.
WHAT’S FOR DINNER?
You’ll have to draw straws over who’s doing the washing up, as it’s self-catering all the way, but the well-equipped kitchen has everything from coffee plungers to — hallelujah — good knives.
We threw our tjoppies on the braai in the stone “lapa”; magical on clear nights when the Karoo stars put on a show.
Bags of kameeldoring firewood can be delivered before arrival, on request.
ACTIVITIES
Aside from letting your eyeballs caress the horizon, the surrounding farmland offers wonderful walking (watch for snakes) and mountain biking.
If you have a 4x4 there’s a trail up to a nearby lookout, while the heritage village of Matjiesfontein, with its quirky museums, restaurant and tea-rooms, is a 45-minute drive away.
WHEN TO GO
It’s a year-round option. Summer offers searing hot days perfect for the plunge pool, with the opportunity to watch dramatic storms thunder across the veld. Winter brings crisp clear nights, crackling hearths and, if you’re very lucky, a dusting of snow.
RATES
R1,450 per day for two people, R350 per day per additional guest. Minimum stay of two nights. No children under seven or pets.
BOOKING
Visit snyderskloof.co.za.