Dear Japie, it is one of my great joys to share my homestead with guests and I’m always delighted when people have a good stay. I am, therefore, very sorry that you did not enjoy your time with us and I am taking your feedback seriously. A 1.4-star review is very low, so I think it is important that I share my side of the story.
When your booking came through, my 17-month old was having serious breathing problems and we were at the hospital. In the stress of that time, I forgot to mark your booking on my calendar. This was the first time that I was not ready for guests who had booked. I understand this must have been frustrating, and I tried to make it up to you by offering beer, local farm fresh milk, and suggestions for how to spend your time while we prepared the cabin. Despite the circumstances, we managed to ready the cabin in under 90 minutes.
Unfortunately, we faced another issue when the water in the top tank ran out. We switched over to another tank, but an airlock developed in the boiler line, potentially because it had been made too hot, and there was no hot water for the night. I really apologise if I didn't offer to bring buckets of hot water! I was very relieved that the hot water was working again from the second day.
Every major decision at Wild Fox Hill is made with the earth's health in mind, which is why I have chosen to be off the grid. Although this solves several typical South African challenges like load shedding and municipal dysfunction, it brings its own set of challenges.
This ethos also influences our garden management at Wild Fox Hill. There is a large grassy area in front of the cabin for guests to enjoy, but we like to keep some sections wild. This may not be to everyone’s tastes. I have spent many years transforming the land I bought into a viable homestead, a thriving ecosystem, and an inspiring landscape. I apologise that the bonfire pit was not cleaned after previous guests.
Please know that guests who visit Wild Fox Hill can expect a rustic, cosy, characterful, off-the-grid experience filled with heart and nature. However, it is not perfect and does not have all the modern amenities.