Weltevrede Fig Farm: De Hoek

In a tree-filled valley in the Swartberg Mountains, just 25km west of Prince Albert, this sixth-generation fruit farm is an idyllic stayover, with different lodgings to choose from. Privately located Fonteinskop cottage is ideal for a hilltop romantic getaway; plus there are three larger houses for families, with big, view-drenched verandahs and gardens. Last (but far from least) is Klein De Hoek, a smaller cottage that serves as the ideal writer’s retreat or painter’s dream.

All the cottages are furnished with antiques, plush upholstery and old-style wood-burning stoves – and they have no electricity, creating the authentic feel of a historic Karoo family farm. (Don’t worry; they come fully equipped with a gas stove, fridge and geyser). Here, your evenings will be fire-warmed and lit by the rosy glow of paraffin lamps and starlight/moonlight. Peaceful days can be spent chilling, exploring, walking in the orchards (picking fruit in late summer) and swimming (in the pool or dams).

THE LODGINGS

Bedrooms + bathrooms

• 3 bedrooms with double beds
• 3 bathrooms with bath and/or shower (gas geyser)
• Bathroom amenities

Indoor living

• Kitchen with gas appliances, table and wood stove
• Lounge with fireplace
• Separate dining room

Outdoor living

• Verandah with seating and table
• Portable braai
• Pizza oven
• Swimming pool
• Garden

THINGS TO DO

On the property

• Buy farm produce and enjoy coffee/tea and cake at the shop
• Farm tours (especially during fig season)
• Fruit picking in late summer
• Swimming (in pool and dams)
• Stargazing
• Braaiing

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”)
• Enjoy a range of products at O for Olive, Prince Albert Olives or Kredouw Estate
• 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