Whether you want to plan a family escape or a romantic getaway for you and your partner, planning a farmhouse escape this winter is the way to go. After all, there is nothing quite like cuddling up to your partner in front of the fireplace on a chilly winter night, surrounded by the open, star-filled sky and rolling countryside. Here are some of our top picks to settle your winter countryside desires:
Schoemans Cottage, Eastern Cape
Schoemans Cottage is a charming self-catering accommodation located on the sprawling Waterval Farm near Graaff-Reinet in the Eastern Cape. Built in 1870, the quaint cottage offers cosy accommodation for 4 guests in thick rock and clay walls that promise to keep you cool in summer and warm and cosy in winter. The cottage has one en-suite bedroom, a living room with twin beds, and a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, microwave, stove, and oven. Guests can enjoy splashing around in the swimming pool and making use of the braai area to create traditional South African meals. As there is no television or cell reception at this isolated getaway, guests are ensured a quiet escape undisturbed by the distractions of city life. Find out more.
Thirsty Falls Guest Farm, North West
Set high up on the slopes of the Magaliesberg, Thirsty Falls Guest Farm offers self-catering accommodation in the North West. Guests can choose between the 3 beautiful self-catering cottages, sleeping 2, 4, and 6 people respectively, which are all self-contained and fully equipped to make self-catering a breeze. Each cottage is nestled in the natural bush and has its own private veranda with a braai place and panoramic views.
Guests staying at Thirsty Falls can enjoy exclusive access to the swimming pool with a lapa, braai and boma area, pub, and games room with a television, pool table, dart board, and board games for those chilly winter days. Other facilities include a beautiful rose and herb garden, freshly baked goods from the farmhouse kitchen daily, and picnic baskets and platters available for order. This peaceful escape has activities such as walks and hikes around the farm, bird watching, and spotting small wildlife. The Magalies Meander is just a stone’s throw away with countless activities including canopy tours, hot air ballooning, horse riding, trout fishing, candle dipping, shopping, and more. Find out more.
River Farm, Western Cape
River Farm is a charismatic country retreat situated in a valley in the scenic town of Citrusdal, in the Western Cape. Nestled beneath the towering mountains, this self-catering house is absolutely secluded and quiet. Guests can enjoy tranquil breakfasts on the stoep each morning, overlooking the valley. With romantic activities such as swimming in secluded rock pools and cuddling in front of the fireplace, River Farm offers guests the ideal romantic or family getaway.
The house can accommodate up to 7 people with 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a built-in braai area. Guests will share the bush with animals like baboons, birds, buck, and the occasional leopard. The cottage has no electricity so guests can truly enjoy the serenity of the countryside. The cottage is pet friendly so feel free to bring along your furry companion and enjoy a getaway in true farm style. Find out more.
How do you plan to keep warm this winter?
