Phenomenal Farm Stays

Some things are best enjoyed in winter; mugs of hot chocolate, fluffy socks, crackling fires and cosy countryside escapes. City folk have been daydreaming of a weekend getaway to the country for weeks. The kids need some fresh air and space to roam free. Exhausted parents are in need to some serious downtime. We’ve hand-picked the best local farm stays, with stacks of platteland charm and kid-friendly fun. So, pack up your gumboots, we’re going to the countryside kids!

Featured: Buff and Fellow

Situated on the edge of a dam with uninterrupted views of the breath-taking Outeniqua Mountains, sits Buff and Fellow. This serene family getaway is located on a working buffalo farm. The ‘Ultreya Farm’ is home to four luxurious self-catering eco cabins.

Buff and Fellow is a slice of serenity for fatigued city folk and a haven for nature-lovers and fishing enthusiasts. The farm offers a scenic oasis from the hustle and bustle of modern life, while still being less than 10km from George. The picturesque farmlands, laidback atmosphere and plentiful farm activities make this self-catering stay a dream destination.

Buff and Fellow has two double-container eco-cabins (which sleep four) and two smaller eco-pods (which each sleep two). Each of the eco-cabin’s master suites has a claw-footed roll top bath tub and outdoor shower. The lounge and dining area has a cosy little wood-burning stove, perfect for warming your toes after a brisk hike around the farm. The kitchen is fully equipped for catering and guests can order a selection of breakfast and braai boxes delivered to the door.

Kids will find plenty to keep them occupied from dawn till dusk. Little explorers will find their way into ‘Cluck and Fellow’, the farm’s chicken coop, where they can collect their own free range eggs. Nature enthusiasts will love the early morning game drive. Watch the buffalo and enjoy a freshly brewed coffee. Fishing rods, a tackle box, Canadian canoes and lifejackets are provided for excursions onto the farm dam. However, the crown jewel at Buff and Fellow is a family-sized wood-fired Jacuzzi, ideal for appreciating the Cape’s golden sunsets and starlit skies.

Featured: Redberry Farm Accommodation

Sweet retreat

Families will find hectares of strawberry fields, interspersed with picturesque dams and lush pastures at Redberry Farm, outside George. This popular family-owned destination is ideal for berry-lovers, fun-seeking families and outdoor fanatics. The historic farmstead hosts a charming 120 year old self-catering cottage, which sleeps four in two comfortable bedrooms.

Energetic youngsters can explore the largest permanent hedge maze in the Southern Hemisphere, where they will find seven stations hidden in a labyrinth of passageways.

Take a midday break for a homemade scone and a freshly brewed coffee in the Tea Garden. The Redberry Farm Stall sells a range of artisan foods and local wines. Toddlers will love the Redberry Express, a miniature train which traverses the farm and passes by the rabbit hutch. There’s also a large outdoor playground, pedal go-carts and pony rides. Be sure to stop at the Framboos Handcrafted Ice Cream parlour to sample their delicious gelato, served in crisp sugar cones. Kids can design and build their own ice cream sandwiches from a selection of freshly baked biscuits and flavoured gelato. Sumptuous sundowners are offered at the elegant Boplaas tasting room. Sample their wines with a platter, and finish with a phenomenal pairing.

Featured: ArendsRus Country Lodge

Secluded Comfort

ArendsRus Country Lodge offers old-school value for money and traditional hospitality. The lodge is set in a serene country estate, with lots of fynbos flora, green pastures, golden Jersey cows and glorious views. The Weavers’ Cottage is a firm family favourite. The wooden chalet sleeps four to five people in two bedrooms. Five further cottages on the estate have self-catering facilities, as well as access to a communal lounge.

ArendsRus is an excellent setting for hikers and mountain bikers, lying at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains. The property also offers a heated swimming pool, a kiddies play area, an eco-4×4 route and a fun river crossing. Kids can work on their golf swing at the chip and putt course. The on-site restaurant, Die Roosterkoek, is a popular cyclist’s stopover. They serve generous farm style breakfasts, traditional griddle bread, sugar pancakes and a range of evening meals.

Get ready to swap those city lights for some silent rural nights. Your country retreat awaits.