Vrisch Gewagt: Manor House

Surrounded by towering, ancient mountains, this Karoo olive farm offers rugged landscapes and absolute peace (it’s 35km from Prince Albert). Once torn in two by feuding brothers, the historic farm has been restored to a glorious 1 600-hectare property. There are seven accommodation options, filled with heritage and character but equipped with modern bathrooms and kitchens.

The 1914 farmhouse lives up to its new name, Paradys Huis (it has the best views on the farm from its verandah), plus there’s the original grand Manor House up on a hill for larger groups, and five cottages, each with their own attractions. Hannes Cottage has a romantic sunken bath for two; Library Cottage houses a collection of over 100 books; Cook’s Cottage has a wonderful living area and kitchen with a red Smeg fridge; the rustic Birdwatcher River Cottage has a farm-style oven and shares a wall with the quirky Artist River Cottage.

The farm is yours to explore on walks and picnics, plus there are three swimming pools overlooking the orchards, a bird hide and a floating deck on the dam.

THE LODGINGS

Bedrooms + bathrooms

• 4 spacious bedrooms
• 4 ensuite bathrooms (shower only)
• Bathroom amenities

Indoor living

• Open-plan farm kitchen with Nespresso machine
• Dining table and spacious lounge
• Indoor fireplace (firewood supplied)
• Tea and coffee facilities

Outdoor living

• Furnished verandah with braai
• Private swimming pool

Catering

• Seasonal farm veggies, free-range eggs and lamb available
• A bottle of farm’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil, a jar of their olives and a bottle of organic red wine (for stays of two nights or more) are included in the rate

THINGS TO DO

On the property

• Stargaze
• Bird-watch
• Swim in the pools and dams
• Picnic on the floating deck
• Milk the cow
• Feed the baby lambs
• Fish in the dam
• Pick farm-fresh eggs
• Find out how olive oil is made

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 Weltevrede Fig Farm
• 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