Orange Grove: FineView Cottage

In the heart of the Robertson Valley, this serene wine and olive farm in the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains also offers wild swathes of fynbos, magnificent rock formations, gorges and hidden waterfalls. It’s an escape into nature coupled with charming and luxurious accommodation, and a sense of history presided over by a 250-year-old manor house. Self-catering is made a little easier with breakfast baskets, braai baskets and picnic baskets delivered on request, and exploring the 5 000-hectare property is a cinch with mountain bikes to rent and self-guided or guided hiking trails.

THE LODGINGS

FineView, as its name suggests, has spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and mountains from its private perch on a ridge. Bright and airy, it’s beautifully decorated, with earthy hues, oriental rugs and antique-style furniture, and is serviced daily, so you can just focus on relaxing.

Indoor living

• 3 bedrooms (queen bed, double bed, single bed); main bedroom with dressing room
• 2 bathrooms (main ensuite with bath and shower; second with shower)
• Living room with fireplace and plasma TV (DStv)
• Fully equipped kitchen with dining counter
• Air-conditioning

Outdoor living

• Furnished verandah with outdoor dining
• Undercover built-in braai area
• Plunge pool

THINGS TO DO

On the property

• 6 self-guided hiking trails + 2 guided hikes
• 3 mountain-bike trails (with bike rental)
• Picnics (catered baskets on request)
• Swimming in rock pools and waterfalls
• Massage therapy (on request)
• Nature drives
• Bird-watching

In the area

• Wine-tasting (about 40 farms)
• Olive farm route
• Craft beer and brandy tastings
• River cruise
• Restaurants, shops and market in Robertson
• Horse-riding