Dominated by the craggy Krakadouw and Platberg peaks of the Northern Cederberg, the unspoilt Boskloof Valley seems so serene, it could have been photoshopped.
Here you’ll find Klein Boschkloof, where architect Gilbert Colyn’s considered influence is apparent in the sensitive restoration and design of three classy cottages situated between orange groves. In each, colours are rich and sympathetic to the surroundings. Moreover, the mix of antique furniture, original paintings and design classics bring the cottages comfortably into the 21st century. Notable features include oregan wood ceilings, yellowwood doors and Batavian clay tiles.
With thatched roofs and half-meter thick clay walls, Die Stal, Ou Huis and Waenhuis cottages are air-conditioned, have full bathrooms and are equipped with all mod-cons. And at night, drift off to sleep under fluffy down duvets or padded cotton percale comforters.
Walk along the perennial Jan Dissels river in the Boskloof Valley where sightings of klipspringers, steenbokkies, baboons, porcupines and mountain tortoises are common. Jump on your mountain bike. Or meander through 3 500 orange grove trees. Shaded by weeping boer-beans (Schotia brachyptala), cooling off in the complex pool is another popular activity.
Although hard to imagine, if you need a breather from the pervasive tranquility, take a 15-minute drive to Clanwilliam to visit rooibos tea farms, the Strassberger shoe factory or one of many delightful restaurants. But if that doesn’t strike a chord, there’s always a slew of Cederberg hiking trails, bouldering or fishing in Clanwilliam dam as diversions.
Attentive host Eleanor Colyn provides discounts for direct bookings. Rates range from R900 – R1 100 pn for 2 people, but regrettably, pets are a no-no. Book: 082 6746717; valentine@mylan.co.za.
All photos: Ewald Sadie