Mirtehof Guest Farm Estate: Karoo Cottage

This small farm on the edge of town – home to ponies, donkeys, sheep, geese and chickens – is a magical place. The 18th-century farmhouse has a wraparound stoep for 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains (and a sad love story in its history, involving poet CJ Langenhoven).

Guests can stay in two semi-detached cottages further from the main house, or in one of three beautiful suites: Arcadia is beside the kitchen garden, The Orchard overlooks its namesake and a pretty courtyard, and the Prince Albert Suite occupies the entire west wing of the house. They’re all fit for royalty, with Persian carpets, exquisite fabrics and antique crystal chandeliers.

And we haven’t even mentioned the magnificent garden, which is truly a Karoo oasis, filled with vibrant flowers, pergolas, pathways, ponds, a quirky henhouse, a wishing well and more to discover around every corner. The sound of trickling water, croaking frogs and birdsong will fill your soul with happiness and your mind with peace.

THE LODGINGS

Bedrooms + bathrooms

• 1 bedroom with extra-length king-size bed
• 1 ensuite bathroom with bath, walk-in shower and double basins
• Bathroom amenities

Indoor living

• Open-plan sitting area with satellite TV
• Tea/coffee station and mini fridge
• Kitchenette with stove and dining table
• Air-conditioning, ceiling fans and underfloor heating
• Complimentary WiFi
• Optional breakfast

Outdoor living

• Outdoor cooking area with braai and firepit
• Communal plunge pool
• Communal braai area and boma with firepit

THINGS TO DO

On the property

• Explore the garden
• Meet the resident ponies, donkeys, sheep, geese and chickens
• Pick seasonal fruit
• Swim in the communal pool
• Braai
• Stargaze

In the area

• Pick up heirloom produce, fresh bakes and jams at the Saturday market
• Take a guided Storyweaver walk to learn about Prince Albert’s history
• Go wine-tasting at Bergwater, Fernskloof, Reiersvlei and SoetKaroo
• Visit the Fransie Pienaar Museum (and try some “witblits”)
• Watch a performance at the Showroom Theatre
• Enjoy a range of products at O for Olive, Prince Albert Olives or Kredouw Estate
• Stock up on artisanal cheese at Gay’s Guernsey Dairy
• Drive (or mountain-bike) the Swartberg Pass
• Visit the art galleries and studios of local artists
• Connect with nature at Gamkapoort Dam
• Hike up Gordon’s Koppie for a view over town (trailhead on Bergsig Street)
• Take a biodiversity walk at Wolwekraal Nature Reserve
• Browse local hand-crafts at Karoo Looms, Cape Mohair and Avoova
• Eat at local restaurants (see our guide) and drink at the Green Prince Gin Bar