Five hectares of 400 Frantoio, Mission and Kalamata olive trees, fruit trees and lucerne fields grace the view as you enter pet-friendly Botuin farm. Set on Vanrhynsdorp’s outskirts against the Maskam mountain scrim on one side and the Troe-Troe river on the other, the sight is seductive. Stop, be still and experience it viscerally.
A glut of nearby activities will ring your chimes. Hike at Gifberg, which borders the Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve; casually cycle 5 km around the town or take a more spirited 30-km cycle at Mouerskop. Even more bruising is a ride on the 45-km Vanrhyns Pass.
Afterwards, revive with a refreshing dip in the large pool. And while sipping something cool at the poolside, check out the resident Namaqua Warbler.
In April this year you may want to partake in olive picking for a lark and in season, guests may pick pomegranates, quinces, figs and herbs for their pantries.
Charmingly fitted with the late Japie Willemse’s hand-crafted wooden furniture, all cottages have DStv, Wi-Fi, aircon, private braai facilities, a kitchen and crispy cotton-percale linen. Mission and Kalamata are two-sleepers, while Frantoio sleeps four. There’s a substantial farm breakfast by request too.
Rates: R500 pppn; book 072 4714083, salome@botuin.co.za
