Tanagra: Faraway Cottage

Tanagra sits on a 78 000-hectare wine farm at the foot of the Riviersonderend Mountains. Surrounded by vineyards, indigenous fynbos and mountains, it adjoins the Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve and is just a few kilometres from the country town of McGregor. The farm produces handcrafted wines and stylish grappa and eau de vie, and offers comfortable accommodation in six self-catering units. Most are located around the old historical Tanagra homestead (built in 1862 and shaded by a wild fig tree) and the boutique wine cellar. Faraway, however, as the name suggests, is located at the most solitary spot on the farm, where there’s just fynbos, mountains and silence.

THE LODGINGS

Architect-designed Faraway Cottage was built in the style of a traditional Cape Langhuis – but with modern touches to elevate it, such as edge-to-edge windows and glass fold-away doors. Simply furnished, with whitewashed walls, cement floors and built-in sofas, it’s somewhat monastic, but the crackling fire creates a cosy atmosphere and nothing detracts from the enormous views. Totally off-grid, it makes the ideal romantic bolthole, but also a great place to bond with friends or family.

Indoor living

• Two bedrooms (one with king-size bed, one with twin beds; up to two extra beds can be added for children)
• Two ensuite bathrooms (including a bath with a view in the master bathroom)
• Fully equipped kitchen with fridge-freezer and gas stove
• Lounge with fireplace and gas heater
• Board games, radio and CD player
• Honesty bar with estate wines

Outdoor living

• Spacious verandah with seating and hammocks
• Braai area
• Private plunge pool

THINGS TO DO

On the property

• Bird watching
• Hiking, mountain-biking and trail running
• Wine and grappa tasting

In the area

• Cafés, shops and restaurants in McGregor – try Tebaldi’s, Fat Lady’s Arms, The Courtyard and Saggy Stone
• McGregor heritage and art routes, and Temenos Zen garden
• The donkey sanctuary, just across the road from the entrance to the farm
• Hiking and mountain-biking in Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve
• Olive tour and tasting nearby