Stanford Valley: Erica

Surrounded by treed hills and lush meadows where horses graze and springbokkies roam, this idyllic farm in the Klein River Valley spans 480 hectares of unadulterated natural beauty, and is home to a small collection of white-washed farm cottages. Meandering mountain paths, fynbos-dotted plains, horse paddocks and a farm dam are just some of the features that make it the perfect country escape for nature-loving couples, friends and families.

There are 15 cottages spread across the property; each has been lovingly furnished with pared-down rustic charm – and all have breathtaking views of the mountains or meadows.

Most of the cottages are self-catering, but the onsite Manor House Restaurant serves excellent country cooking where breakfast, lunch and dinner are available at an additional cost. The perfect option should you tire of braaing on your private stoep…

THE LODGINGS

A romantic one-bedroom cottage located within the thick walls of the historic farm werf.

Indoor living

• Open-plan bedroom with king-size bed
• Ensuite bathroom with tub and outdoor shower
• Lounge and fireplace
• Well-equipped kitchenette

Outdoor living

• Verandah with beautiful mountain views
• Walled private garden with braai
• Large communal swimming pool area with loungers

Catering

• Equipped for self-catering
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served at the acclaimed on-site Manor House Restaurant (rated in Gourmet Guide’s 2019 Top 75 restaurants in SA) at an additional cost

THINGS TO DO

On the property

• Acclaimed country restaurant
• Art gallery
• Signature spa treatments
• Swimming in the pool or dam
• A mountain-biking trail network that includes singletrack builds through endemic fynbos
• Hiking and trail running through pristine mountain fynbos

In the area

• Explore the village of Stanford, its shops and weekly farmers market
• River cruises on the Klein River
• Wine farms
• Visit Hermanus or Gansbaai