Kalmoesfontein: Winemaker’s Cottage

This is your chance to overnight on the Paardeberg farm of legendary Swartland winemaker, Adi Badenhorst. You’ll find a complimentary bottle of his chenin in each of the self-catering cottages – which are clean and uncluttered, with a predominantly white palette, polished screed floors, simple antique pieces and lots of high-quality luxuries.

The authentic farm setting is a delight for kids, with cats, dogs, pigs, horses, bunnies, as well as free-range fowl of every stripe (from chickens and turkeys to peacocks and geese). The scenic surroundings and hospitality, meanwhile, are a balm for the adult soul. Added attractions: pizza nights and outdoor movies, tasting lunches and wine-paired dinners, culinary workshops and more.

THE LODGINGS

The two-bedroom Winemaker’s Cottage is the prize pick on the property, with a comfortable lounge centred on the raised open fireplace, and luxuries like underfloor heating, and a kitchen garden to forage from. It’s set between old vineyards, a veggie garden, and a large farm reservoir, and has a shaded stoep with spectacular views.

Indoor living

• Main bedroom with Super-King bed
• Second bedroom with twin beds (can be converted to super-king)
• Two bathrooms (main with shower + bath, second with shower only)
• Lounge and dining area with fireplace and indoor braai
• Underfloor heating + air-conditioning
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Games basket

Outdoor living

• Stoep with seating and dining table
• Braai facilities
• Private farm pool
• Outside shower and hot tub
• Garden with hammocks

Catering

• Freshly prepared homecooked meals can be booked in advance and delivered to your room
• Farm shop for fresh bread, butter, eggs, ice cream, preserves and braai packs
• Wine tasting farm lunch at 11.30am on Wednesday and Friday
• Paardeberg Pizza Night at 6.30pm on Thursday

THINGS TO DO

On the property

• Farm walks through old-vine vineyards and vegetable gardens
• Swimming in the farm dam
• Fishing (bring your own rods and equipment for catch-and-release)
• Picnicking (baskets on request)
• 5km hiking trail across four neighbouring farms
• Mountain-biking trails
• Wine cellar tours and tastings
• Treasure hunt map for children
• Playground with ziplines, swings and cricket net

In the area
Restaurants, shops, wine and olive tastings in nearby Riebeek Kasteel and Wellington