If you’ve ever dreamt of being surrounded by sumptuous luxury but have found that unfortunately the budget does not allow this on a daily basis, you should definitely book a weekend away at an estate. While there you will discover all the hidden comforts offered, and may even become inspired by the décor and pampering options to implement some of the features when you’re back home!
- Surval Boutique Olive Estate, Oudtshoorn
With a view of the Swartberg Mountain range, sprawling grounds, and a luxurious farm atmosphere, Surval Boutique Olive Estate is the ideal place for a family weekend away. They are a top function venue – especially for weddings – and have numerous entertainment options on-site, such as a jungle gym, wine tastings, a swimming pool, cycling trails, and numerous picnic spots. They are also well located for trips to the Cango Caves, camel rides, eco-walks and tours, and game drives.
The famed Su Casa restaurant serves mouth-watering dishes that are as delightful to look at, as they are to tuck into. Traditional menu items are inspired by the surrounding Karoo, along with dashes of international flair which turn into artful masterpieces on the plate. The extensive wine list perfectly complements the various cuisines.
Accommodation here is said to be fit for kings and queens, so choose between the 16 chic rooms available, and find your perfect style! Be it the fabulous honeymoon suite with its gorgeous open-plan Roman bath, the open-plan Superior Double/Twin rooms with baths only or showers only, or the Standard Double/Twin rooms, with baths only or showers only. There are also Single Rooms available for solitary travellers, and the Family Units suited for up to four persons, which offer double and twin beds. Find out more.
- Wildebraam Berry Estate, Swellendam
If you’ve ever wanted to pluck juicy berries straight from the bush, then the 4-star rated Wildebraam Berry Estate is the place to head to during November, when the ripe youngberries are begging to be picked! This beautiful farm, set within the Hermitage Valley, offers views of the Langeberg Mountains and provides a tranquil atmosphere to unwind in.
The on-site deli provides fresh, local produce and liqueurs and preserves made on-site, and tours of the cellar are done Mondays to Saturdays. They have birding opportunities on-site and can arrange horse riding in the area, as well as hiking in the Marloth Nature Reserve, golf at nearby resorts, and of course, the above berry picking in-season.
Accommodation is provided in cottages and within the main lodge. Room types vary between couples, families, and groups of up to 8. Soft twin and double beds are offered, and all units have either portable braais on their adjoining patios, or built-in braais, with wood and blitz provided. All units are air conditioned or provide fans, and most have kitchenettes or fully equipped kitchens. Find out more.
- Beyond the Moon Farm, Wilderness
The 2-star graded Beyond the Moon Farm offers visitors a unique opportunity to stay within a 24ha property that has a large portion of indigenous forest on their grounds that includes a 45 minute private hiking trail. With beautiful ponds bordering most of the cottages, and plenty of surrounding trees for privacy, visitors have the chance to awaken to birdsong and fall asleep to the gentle croaking of frogs. Monkeys and other small animals live in the indigenous forest and are often spotted by those hiking.
Families with children are encouraged to bring along the kids’ bicycles, as there are safe cycling trails around. The little ones can also take a swim in the shallow reservoir and play at building dams in the rivers. The Wilderness beaches are a short drive away, and nearby activities include paragliding.
The accommodation consists of 5 self-catering cottages with open-plan living and kitchen areas. They are very well suited for group visits. Froggy Lodge and River Sanctuary both sleep 7 guests in double beds, bunk beds, and a single bed in the open-plan living room/kitchen area. Kingfisher Cottage can sleep up to 6 guests with a double bed and two bunk beds – one of which is in the kitchen / living room. Francolin Cottage can take up to 5 guests with 3 single beds in one room, and a double bed in an adjoining room. The final cottage, Kestrel Cottage takes up to 4 guests, in two rooms with double beds. Find out more.
Where have your favourite estate and farm stays been?
Main image of Beyond the Moon Farm (C) LekkeSlaap
