Ohana Retreat

This whitewashed, thatched farmhouse in Banghoek Private Nature Reserve has been lovingly renovated into a magical escape by its passionate owners, Daniel Phillips and Debbie Goldstein. The 1 000-hectare reserve is a pristine, fynbos-strewn wonderland, protecting many rare and endangered plants, and home to baboons, antelope, aardvarks, porcupines, myriad birds and elusive leopards.

There’s so much to love and immerse yourself in – a patio strung with fairy lights; a lush garden of trees, flowers, lawns and secret nooks; hammocks, beanbags and deckchairs around every turn; the sound of a stream trickling through the garden; a small pool to dip in; a citrus orchard; mountain views… It really is an idyllic retreat in every sense of the word.

Each room of the house opens onto the gorgeous garden (painstakingly created by Daniel) and the endless expanse beyond. The interiors are every bit as breathtaking, courtesy of Debbie’s tasteful eye (she also owns Madison Boutique, a designer-clothing store at Constantia Village, Cape Town). Thoughtful touches abound, from exquisite soaps, candles, throws and linen to the art and books. It’s kind to the Earth, too: off-grid and solar-powered. What more could you possibly ask for?

THE LODGINGS

Bedrooms + bathrooms

• 3 bedrooms (2 on the lower level with queen-size beds, and 1 in the attic with a king-size bed + a couch/daybed for 1 extra guest)
• 3 bathrooms (1 with a shower and separate bathtub, 2 ensuite with showers), plus an outdoor shower
• Bathroom amenities

Indoor living

• Fully equipped kitchen
• Open-plan living and dining area
• Large indoor fireplace
• TV, sound system and boardgames
• Complimentary WiFi
• Solar panels
• Fresh fruit from the farm is available

Outdoor living

• Spacious outdoor deck with a braai
• Outdoor dining table
• Splash pool
• Shaded garden
• Hammock and sun loungers

THINGS TO DO

On the property

• Scenic walks
• Swimming
• Hiking and walking trails
• Mountain-biking
• Wildlife-spotting and bird-watching
• Picnicking
• Stargazing

In the area

• Explore the town of Piketberg
• Various wine estates
• Porterville Farmers Market (every Saturday)
• Piket-Bo-Berg Farmers Market (last Saturday of the month)
• Various hiking trails
• Mountain-biking
• Goedverwacht and Koringberg villages