Straight out of the pages of a storybook.
This whitewashed, thatched farmhouse in the Banghoek Private Nature Reserve has been lovingly renovated into a magical escape by its passionate owners, Daniel Phillips and Debbie Goldstein. The 1 000-hectare reserve – nestled in the little-known Kapteinskloof Valley – is a pristine, fynbos-strewn wonderland, protecting many rare and endangered plants, and home to baboons, antelope, zebras, aardvarks, porcupines, myriad birds and elusive leopards.
A very special place
There is so much to love to immerse yourself in – a patio strung with fairylights; a lush garden of trees, flowers, lawns and secret nooks; hammocks, beanbags and deckchairs around every turn; the sound of a nearby stream; a small pool to dip into; an ever-expanding citrus orchard; mountain views… It’s an idyllic spot in which to take it slow, whether that’s cooking hearty comfort food, stargazing around a braai fire, picnicking under the big old oak tree or curling up to read a book.
Love and light
Every room of the house opens onto the gorgeous garden, which was painstakingly created by Daniel, and the endless nature beyond that. The interiors are every bit as breathtaking, courtesy of Debbie’s tasteful eye (she also owns Madison Boutique, a designer-clothing store in Cape Town). Thoughtful touches abound, from exquisite soaps, candles, throws and linen to the art and books. It’s kind to the Earth, too, off-grid and solar-powered.
For Debbie, it’s been a “labour of love”, turning “a funny old house with small windows on a sandpit” into a dreamy, light-filled home with an Eden-esque garden. More than 2 000 trees have been planted in the surrounding orchards, along with the lawns and indigenous shrubs.
You’ll come here for all of the above, and find the true luxury of privacy and a remote, unspoilt setting. And according to the owners, the winter days are positively balmy and the best time to enjoy this area… it’s nicer for hiking and the rockpools in the mountains are full.
The lodgings
- 3 bedrooms (one in the attic): king bed, two queen beds + daybed/sleeper couch
- 3 bathrooms with bath and/or shower, plus outdoor shower
- fully equipped kitchen (with a dishwasher)
- open-plan living area with a large fireplace
- indoor and outdoor dining tables
- verandah with a braai
- natural plunge pool
- TV, sound system and boardgames
Things to do
- scenic walks (orchards, dam and riverside)
- swimming
- hiking trails, including to San rock art sites
- mountain-biking
- wildlife spotting and birdwatching
- picnicking
Where Near Piketberg
Distance from CT 2 hours
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes (no cellphone signal)
Sleeps 6 (+1 extra child)
Cost R4 800 per night (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
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