Memories are made of this. Families and friends sharing an idyllic breakaway together, somewhere on a serene farm in a wine region.
All the better if you’re staying in unique self-catering accommodation serving as the ideal base to explore the wineries in the area.
Here’s our list of 25 highly recommended fresh-air South African farm stays for large families, varying from earthy and rustic to lavish and luxurious.
Go on, woo your wanderlust.
Bot River
1. Endless Vineyards Boutique Lodge
The Endless Vineyards Boutique Lodge is set on the Wildekrans wine estate, a well-known and award-winning winery in the Overberg. Because of the farm’s slightly elevated location, guests are spoilt with beautiful views of vineyards, mountains and even Walker Bay in the distance.
They have eight Cape Dutch-style cottages nestled in a row, that are quaint and comfortable. Each has its own veranda, so you can cheers to the end of a lovely day as the sun sets.
If you’d like to take the night-off cooking (or simply skip another braai), spoil yourself at the restaurant. The chefs forage for fresh ingredients every day to ensure they use local, seasonal produce as part of the ever-changing menu.
Things to do: Bot River wine route, volleyball, swimming, walking, hiking.
Self-catering sleeps: 34 guests.
Closest wine farm: Wildekrans.
2. Kol-Kol Mountain Lodge
Yes, Kol-Kol has fabulous fynbos views, delightful dwellings and homey touches, but that’s not what makes this mountain lodge so unique. The reason they’re booked out months in advance is because they have amazing wood-fired hot tubs.
The shallow pools are positioned outside on the decks of each cabin, creating the perfect steaming sanctuary to relax in. You can spend hours here, reading a book or just drinking a glass of wine whilst listening to nature (aka zoning out in hypnotised fashion).
They have nine different size stone and wood cabins. Each one close enough to drive to, but far enough to be private.
Things to do: Bot River wine route, hot tubs, hiking, walking, horse riding, mountain biking, birding.
Self-catering sleeps: 30 guests.
Closest wine farm: Beaumont Family Wines.
Breedekloof
3. Riverstone House and Riverstone FamTin
Converted container homes are all the rage these days. They are trendy, eco-friendly and you know what, just something quirky and different.
Riverstone’s FamTin is a contemporary container cottage with modern decor and furniture. (But listen, they had me at starlight outdoor showers.)
The FamTin is a new addition to the Palmietvlei farm. Their pioneer accommodation offering is actually their Riverstone House - a large magnificent farm villa a kilometre away.
It’s a jol (party) for kids too. There are inflatables to enjoy on the dam and there are endless space where they can play and live their best farm life.
Things to do: Breedekloof wine route, swimming, star gazing, hiking, walking.
Self-catering sleeps:14 guests.
Closest wine farm: Bergsig.
4. Arum Lily Cottage & Log Cabins
At first sight, Arum Lily looks complete like a fairytale scene from children’s book. Dreamy log cabins in a row, reflecting in the farm dam with a mountain range and pine trees in the back.
Like most of the farms in the region, the accommodation is also set on a working fruit farm so you’re surrounded by orchards too.
You can choose between six cottages - five of them are wooden cabins and another is a family house. The cabins have wooden decks on the lake and are fitted with braais and private hot tubs.
Now, don’t think log cabins always equal rough and rustic. The interiors have hotel-like finishes like luxurious linen to make sure you can kick off your shoes and chill.
Things to do: Breedekloof wine route, canoeing, hot tubbing, walking, birding.
Self-catering sleeps: 28 guests.
Closest wine farm: Waverley Hills.
5. Seven Oaks Vineyard Cottages
A wonderful retreat for all seasons. Who knows - you might experience snow in winter, and balmy days in summer? One thing is sure - Seven Oaks is geared for both.
Their four characterful cottages have their own fireplace to cuddle to when the weather is cooler, and they have verandas to enjoy hot days outside. The rooms are tidy and cosy with everything you might need.
Their most outstanding feature is their private wood-fired Turkish baths. Soak off your sorrows in the hot water or enjoy a glass of wine with your loved ones. Because they’re located outside, you can even enjoy the tub after the sun has set to look for the Southern Cross in the night sky.
Things to do: Breedekloof wine route, Turkish baths, walking, cycling.
Self-catering sleeps: 12 guests.
Closest wine farm: Seven Oaks.
Elgin
6. South Hill Guest House and Pump House
‘Cool’ has a double meaning here.
First of all it refers to the excellent cool-climate wines that South Hill Vineyards and neighbouring cellars have become famous for.
Secondly, it refers to the rising trendiness of the valley. Known to be down-to-earth with a touch of unconventional. Just like the Old MacDaddy airstream trailer park up the road.
As accommodation options, South Hill has a modern double story Guest House with four rooms that can be utilised as a self-catering villa if booked out exclusively. The loft can also be converted into a fifth room for kids. Nice features are the 15 metre pool, a boule court, pizza oven and original art on the walls.
There’s also a separate quaint Pump house cottage next-door that is usually used as a romantic honeymoon suite.
Things to do: Elgin wine route, swimming, jacuzzi, boules, walking.
Self-catering sleeps: 18 guests.
Closest wine farm: South Hill Vineyards.
South Hill Guesthouse And Pump House
7. Black Oystercatcher
Talk about a hidden gem. You’ll have to hit a sedan-manageable gravel road between Bredasdorp and Struisbaai to get to Black Oystercatcher.
On their secluded farm you’ll find a bistro-style restaurant, a craft beer brewery, boutique wine cellars and a tasting room. They’re renowned for their boutique wines and seasonal menus, so make you sure you book a table.
The four self-catering cottages all have porches with views overlooking either the mountains, garden or wetlands. The furnishings are simple but spotless, and there’s a fireplace inside and a braai outside.
A great base for exploring the area, including the southernmost tip of Africa, Cape Agulhas, and the historic Moravian church town of Elim.
Things to do: Cape Agulhas and Elim Wine Route, wine tasting and tour, beer tasting and tour, birding, walking, cycling.
Self-catering sleeps: 8 guests.
Closest wine farm: Black Oystercatcher.
Franschhoek
8. La Cotte
Oi, Franschhoek! The epicurean epicentre of South Africa, spoilt with top-class restaurants and wineries. Also, one of the most pristine towns in the country, lined with quirky shops and encircled by majestic mountains.
How convenient then, to have an über luxurious wine farm to temporarily call home, just outside of town.
La Cotte truly is submerged in beauty. Inside their private villa and 11 cottages you are welcomed with classic glamour. Crisp linen, gorgeous floral patterns, heavy curtains and wooden furniture set the scene. Outside, you get unsurpassed views no matter where you stand, swim, dine (or nap).
Things to do: Franschhoek wine route, swimming, walking.
Self-catering sleeps: 58 guests.
Closest wine farm: Haute Cabriere.
9. Boschendal Farm Cottages
Over the last couple of years, Boschendal has evolved from being a wine and fruit farm to a top winelands destination. A golden thread through all of their added experiences, restaurants, activities is this: a natural, easy country-living feel.
Their farm cottages are no different. Expect unpretentious style with hearty hospitality and breathtaking mountain-views. A perk of staying over, is that you’ll get unlimited access to the farm. Choose a tree to read a book under, have a glass of wine at a secluded spot, or have a swim in the farm dam. Make yourself at home.
They have 25 cottages, with some of the houses a drive away from the main Werf area. The 14 Orchard and seven Werf cottages are however positioned together in groups, ideal for bigger gatherings.
Things to do: Franschhoek and Stellenbosch wine routes, fine-dining, horse and carriage rides, cycling, walking, hiking, picnics, spa, cellar tours, garden tours, workshops, concerts.
Self-catering sleeps: 92 guests.
Closest wine farm: Boschendal.
Klein Karoo
10. De Zeekoe Guest Farm
Amidst the expansive horizons of the Klein Karoo, its red soil and succulents, you’ll find this oasis of a place. De Zoeekoe is based on a lucern farm just outside Oudtshoorn offering a great variety of experiences and accommodation options.
Interesting story - the four self-catering wooden cabins are made from Poplar trees that were cut down to make way for endemic plants. A nice touch is their personal delivery of a continental breakfast to your cabin, each morning.
Their most famous attraction however is the rare opportunity to go on a guided walk with Wild Meerkats at a facility closeby. The birdlife is another highlight, with over 168 species to tick off in your Newman or Robertson (let’s not start that debate now).
Things to do: Klein Karoo wine route, wild meerkat tours, hiking, mountain bike rentals, canoeing, fishing, birding, swimming pool, star gazing tours, massages.
Self-catering sleeps: 12 guests.
Closest wine farm: Grundheim.
11. Bobbejaansberg
Imagine this. It’s late afternoon and the sun is about to set in the Klein Karoo.
Shiraz in hand, you’re soaking in a copper bath with large windows overlooking the dramatic landscape.
You’re in a stone house. It’s remote with no mobile reception, so the only sound you hear is the humming of insects. It’s you, your loved ones, and the simple, albeit luxurious, joys that life is made of. Welcome to Bobbejaansberg.
Everything in the deluxe four bedroom holiday house has been designed to please your senses. The furniture and linen are top quality, and the kitchen boasts with chef-level equipment. The stone path outside takes you to two relaxation spots: the swimming pool with loungers, or a raised al fresco dining area with the best views on the property.
Things to do: Klein Karoo wine route, swimming, birding, walking.
Self-catering sleeps: 8 guests.
Closest wine farm: Barrydale Cellars.
12. Protea Farm
With families being a central focus at Protea Farm, it’s no surprise that their most famous activity are their tractor rides. These trips up the Langeberg Mountain started in 1985 and is still popular today.
They have four different types of private self-catering cottages, all with a unique look and feel. Waterblommetjie and Pinetree are timber cottages overlooking a dam, whilst Ou Opstal is a cosy thatched house with a vista of the Koo valley. Panorama is a rustic, large house that sleeps up to 13 people.
Don’t miss their potjiekos (a local stew). It’s an institutional lunchtime meal at Protea Farm on Wednesdays and Saturdays and something you have to try.
Things to do: Klein Karoo wine route, tractor rides, swimming, hiking, birding.
Self-catering sleeps: 25 guests.
Closest wine farm: Montagu Wine & Spirits Company.
Namaqua West Coast
13. Clear Water Oasis
If you really want to go off the beaten track, then book a stay in the heart of the Namaqualand. Clear Water Oasis is a guest farm outside the tranquil Vanrhynsdorp that will guarantee a fun experience for the entire family.
A playground for adults and kids, there are swimming pools, jungle gyms, jumping castles, a duck pond, jacuzzis and a popular casual restaurant.
Their overnight units are rustic and simple, offering great value for money. You can choose between full self-catering cottages, or overnight units where you can braai and dine outside with a coffee station inside.
Things to do: Namaqua West Coast wine route, swimming, walking, jacuzzi.
Self-catering sleeps: 12 guests.
Closest wine farm: Rosslo.
14. Lankverwacht
Venturing into the arid Northern Cape with route 27, will lead you to a secluded town called Niewoudtville. On your way there you will find the Lankverwacht farm situated next to the Vuurberge mountains.
‘Rugged’ and ‘remote’ are the words to best describe the farm. The two basic cottages are private with no television or wifi, encouraging guests to switch off and experience a digital detox.
It won’t be too difficult though. Just looking around you, the abundance and diversity of flower and succulent species will leave you breathless. Due to the clear skies with no pollution, the stargazing is out of this world. The hosts have even created an area with red-lights for astro-photographers.
Things to do: Namaqua West Coast wine route, star gazing, exploring nature, walking, hiking, swimming.
Self-catering sleeps: 10 guests.
Closest wine farm: Klawer Cellars.
Paarl
15. Oude Denneboom
Vineyards. olives, history and wildlife. Not your usual combination but at Oude Denneboom you can experience all four.
Their private game reserve is home to a variety of small animals and antelope, including zebra and the scarce Bontebok. The largest antelope on earth, the Eland, have become quite tame and often swing by the cottages to say hi.
They have four types of cottages, some dating from the 1800’s, each having a special story of is own to make it significant. You can choose either a vineyard location or inside the reserve. Whatever you decide, you will have a unique stay, with vast open spaces around you.
Things to do: Paarl Wine route, swimming, fishing, rowing boats, walking, game viewing, cycling.
Self-catering sleeps: 20 people.
Closest wine farm: Rhebokskloof.
Robertson
16. Orange Grove Farm
Proudly boasting a five star rating, Orange Grove Farm is an exquisite retreat from fast-paced living. You’ll find their accommodation on a farm in the valley of wine and roses, right at the foot of the Babbedasberg.
The farm’s history is rich too. The Manor House was constructed in 1812, the oldest building in the area, and each of the six elegant chalets have their own name and backstory. A private pool and braai area on each veranda overlook the vineyards, olive groves and mountains.
The team is renowned for their warm hospitality, with the farm owner Carlos, being known to check in on guests personally. No surprise that they’ve won multiple awards.
Things to do: Robertson wine route, nature drives, massage therapies, hiking (guided and self-guided), mountain biking, birding.
Self-catering sleeps: 25 people.
Closest wine farm: Rooiberg.
17. Tierhoek Cottages
Fresh, sun-ripened produce. Organic apricots, plums, lemons, quinces, mangos, olives, kale and tomatoes. Is your mouth watering yet?
Tierhoek is a sustainable orchard farm with mixed crops operating form the Noree Valley. You’ll see more than fruit here though. Look out for wildlife like baboons, porcupines and klipspringers, and listen out for the call of the elusive Cape Leopard.
Five distinctly different houses each have their own swimming pool, with different views of the valley. What they all have in common: a secluded and simplistic atmosphere resulting in ultimate relaxation.
Things to do: Robertson wine route, hiking, walking, cycling, birding.
Self-catering sleeps: 34 guests.
Closest wine farm: Rooiberg.
Stellenbosch
18. The Homestead at Oldenburg
The Homestead is the original manor house of Oldenburg Vineyards and nearly 200 years old. Peaking inside, you wouldn’t have guessed it though.
After considerable refurbishments, you can call it an extreme makeover of splendid proportions. Today, the house is a voguish masterpiece. No expense was spared to ensure guests have an impeccable experience.
Let’s not use euphemisms - the house is massive. It’s a double storey, offering 600 square metres of space, six bedrooms and various entertainment areas.
You’ll have unhindered panoramic views of mountains, vineyards and olive groves, creating an atmosphere of tranquility. And breathe.
Things to do: Stellenbosch wine route, swimming, walking, hiking, cycling.
Self-catering sleeps: 12 guests.
Closest wine farm: Oldenburg.
Stanford
19. Stanford Valley Guest Farm
A short drive from the popular coastal town of Hermanus, you’ll find Stanford and its surrounding green pastures.
Stanford Valley Guest Farm is like a classy holiday resort. You have entertainment for the kids and enough activities to keep everyone busy, but the surroundings are aesthetically pleasing and Instagram-worthy.
You’ll find seven elegant self-catering cottages to choose from, aside from their B&B guest suites. The houses are named after various fynbos plants that can be found in abundance on the farm, being part of a Nature Conservancy. The kids will love drinking from the fresh stream - it’s perfectly clean spring water.
Things to do: Stanford wine route, volleyball, hiking, walking, mountain biking, workshops and events.
Self-catering sleeps: 20 people.
Closest wine farm: Raka.
Tulbagh
20. Montpellier
Two Frenchman from the town Montpellier established this picturesque wine farm more than 300 years ago. You can imagine - the place just oozes with character.
An ever-popular wedding and conference venue in the countryside, Montpellier offers a convenient mix of guest accommodation. From the spacious and sophisticated Anex House, to the dormitory-style Solder/Loft with ten single beds, as well as two quaint cottages. A comfortable variety.
Top tip: go and taste (or even better, buy) their award-winning Method Cap Classique Brut and Brut Rosé. Délicieux!
Things to do: Tulbagh wine route, picnics, horse-riding, walking.
Self-catering sleeps: 32 guests.
Closest wine farm: Montpellier.
Wellington
21. Wild Olive House at Bartholomeus Klip
For years Bartholomeus Klip has impressed guests at their country-chic Victorian homestead. By popular demand, they’ve added a self-catering option by opening the doors of Wild Olive House.
The stylish house has a large porch overlooking the lush garden and private swimming pool. There are four ensuite rooms, but you’ll have to toss a coin to decide who’ll get the special outside suite. It overlooks the mountains, so it’s worth the bet.
You’ll be staying on a working sheep and wheat farm at the Elandsberg Nature Reserve, so you’ll get your fair share of fresh air. Another breath of fresh air is their sustainable approach to both to their community and nature. You’ll feel right at home.
Things to do: Wellington Wine Route, Swartland Wine Route, nature drives, swimming, mountain biking, canoeing, hiking, walking, archery, cooking classes and birding.
Self-catering sleeps: 10 guests.
Closest wine farm: Kloovenburg.
22. The Little Farm on a Stream
No false advertising here. It literally is a delightful little olive farm situated on a stream outside of Wellington. With the farmhouse and lodge perched on the slopes of the Hawequa Mountains, you won’t believe you’re only an hour outside of Cape Town.
For special gatherings with friends and family, there is a large entertainment area with a pool and cosy boma. The rooms are comfortable with individualised room décor full of country character. Quaint indeed.
Things to do: Wellington Wine Route, hiking, swimming, walking and cycling on the farm.
Self-catering sleeps: 12 guests.
Closest wine farm: Imbuko.
23. Mooi Bly
There must be something special about Mooi Bly. Some of their guest have been returning to stay here for more than 16 years.
The working wine farm has five free-standing Cape Dutch-style thatched cottages next to each other, all fully equipped. Cosiness is criteria, and with open fireplaces in each unit, that box gets ticked.
Don’t we just love a personal touch? Well, the owner, Erik, is a wine maker himself, and he loves taking guests around on a private cellar tour. The farm also has a couple of farm animals to the kids’ amusement.
Mooi bly means “stay well” in Afrikaans, and it’s safe to say: it’s a promise they’ll keep.
Things to do: Wellington Wine Route, swimming, hiking, walking, farm animals.
Self-catering sleeps: 28 guests.
Closest wine farm: Mooi Bly.
Worcester
24. Penhill Toontjiesrivier
“Brilliant, ideal, exquisite, faultless”. These are some of the words used to describe Penhill Manor in guest reviews.
You see, Penhill is not your average breakaway. They have it all. Country-style luxury, a plethora of fabulous outdoor activities and 1400 hectares of space.
You can either reserve the five different houses separately, or book the entire property for your group. The latter is the most popular option, with a marvellous communal area, large kitchens, braai areas and pergolas to set the scene.
Things to do: Worcester wine route, jacuzzi, tennis, croquet, boules, horse riding, fishing, rowing, swimming, walking, hiking, cycling.
Self-catering sleeps: 24 guests.
Closest wine farm: Conradie Penhill Artisanal Wines.
25. India House and Kraal Cottage
Set within the scenic Bastianskloof private nature reserve, India House and Kraal Cottage are two stone houses a stone’s throw away from one other.
The stylish interior looks like the pages of a decor magazine that have come to life. From the showers to the verandah, the window-views and kitchen table. It’s all been curated to create breathing space.
The outdoor area is pretty incredible too. With open-air showers, a swimming pool, large lawn, indigenous fynbos gardens and more than 200 bird species. Your anti-stress retreat has been booked.
Things to do: Worcester wine route, swimming, hiking, star gazing, birding.
Self-catering sleeps: 8 guests.
Closest wine farm: Lateganskop.
Article by: Leani Jansen van Vuuren
For more information: visitwinelands.co.za
