THE FARMHOUSE
MIDLANDS, KZN
Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Natal Midlands, The Farmhouse offers a luxurious sanctuary for families and their pets. This charming retreat is surrounded by the verdant beauty of our farm, providing an inviting space to relax and reconnect with nature. The enclosed patio leads onto a spacious wooden deck, featuring sliding doors that open to a bar table and a large built-in braai. Additionally, you’ll enjoy your own private backyard, which is fully fenced for your convenience and security.
More than just a place to stay, The Farmhouse delivers an immersive experience with a variety of activities that inspire adventure and outdoor exploration. Guests can dive into the cool waters of our dam, enjoy a peaceful kayak ride, or cast a line for fishing. For those looking for an adrenaline rush, we provide access to thrilling mountain biking trails, scenic hiking paths, and exhilarating white-river rafting opportunities. Be sure to take advantage of the unforgettable hot air balloon rides, which offer spectacular views of the Midlands. After a day filled with excitement, indulge in the delicious offerings of local restaurants that serve authentic regional cuisine.
In this serene environment, The Farmhouse offers a luxurious and comfortable retreat that truly feels like a home away from home. Each evening, you’ll be treated to breathtaking sunsets, while tranquil mornings greet you with peaceful serenity. Every day ends with the satisfaction of enjoying quality time in nature, ensuring that your stay is unforgettable.
THE LOCATION
Nestled in a picturesque setting, The Farmhouse offers an ideal getaway just a short walk from a stunning rock pool and lookout point, perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquillity and adventure. Surrounded by a beautiful and secure garden, the property provides ample space for children and families to run, play, and enjoy the great outdoors in a safe environment.
Guests at The Farmhouse have the unique opportunity to join Richard on a delightful farm tour, where they can immerse themselves in the local agricultural lifestyle and learn about the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the famous Carshalton Dam is conveniently located just 3 kilometres away, providing further opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous escape, The Farmhouse is the perfect location to create lasting memories.
THE SPACE
Blending modern luxury with unique artistic touches, this beautifully renovated retreat provides a delightful escape for families and their pets, accommodating up to eight guests with the following features:
- Four distinctive bedrooms, each with king-size beds and fresh linens. One of the bedrooms is a separate cottage for added privacy, and two bedrooms can be configured as single beds upon request. All rooms are en-suite and come with air conditioning, central heating, and ceiling fans.
- Fully equipped kitchen featuring a Smeg stainless steel oven, gas cooktop, Liebherr refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, and essential cooking and baking supplies. An ice maker is also provided for your convenience.
- An inviting lounge area with comfortable seating, a TV with the complete DSTV package, Wi-Fi, Netflix, and a Bluetooth sound system. Please note that there is no cell reception available.
- Recreational options include kayaks for guest use, with life jackets required for safety.
- Enclosed patio that opens to a spacious wooden deck, complete with a bar table and built-in braai, as well as a private, fully fenced backyard for relaxation.
- Laundry amenities featuring a washing machine (detergent not included), tumble dryer, and iron. We provide towels, bed linens, soap, and toilet paper for eight guests.
- Safety provisions include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and an electric fence surrounding the property to ensure security for families with children. An indemnity form is required for kayak usage and swimming in the nearby natural rock pool.
We have thoughtfully arranged all necessary amenities, and our dedicated cleaning staff will ensure your living spaces remain immaculate by managing daily chores like dishwashing and bed-making, so you and your family can focus on enjoying a relaxing getaway.
THE SURROUNDINGS
The entire property, including the area surrounding the dam, is yours to explore. If you’re interested in learning more about maize and farming, or if you’d like to meet our friendly cattle, please let us know in advance. This way, one of our knowledgeable managers can provide you with a comprehensive tour of the farm.
GETTING THERE:
The Farmhouse is located 15 kilometres from the town of Mooi River. The first 8 kilometres of your journey are on a paved road, followed by 7 kilometres of gravel. Visitors during the rainy season may find the gravel section challenging. We highly recommend contacting us before your visit to check on the current road conditions. If you encounter any difficulties while travelling, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- FISHING: Experience the tranquillity of fishing in our private trout dam, located just a short walk from The Farmhouse. For bass fishing enthusiasts, our bass dam, situated 3 kilometres away, offers another great option. Contact us, and we’ll guide you to this second fishing spot on the property. To ensure the health of our waters and the preservation of the environment, we follow a strict catch-and-release policy across all our dams.
- GOING OFF THE GRID: Due to our secluded location, services such as Wi-Fi and DStv may occasionally be interrupted by load shedding or adverse weather conditions. While we aim to provide consistent access, we encourage you to embrace this opportunity to unplug from digital distractions and reconnect with nature and your loved ones during your stay.
- WHAT TO PACK: The Midlands weather can be notoriously unpredictable. To ensure your comfort, we recommend bringing clothing suitable for both warm and cool conditions, so you’re prepared for whatever the weather may bring.
- HOUSEKEEPING: Enjoy the convenience of daily housekeeping services provided by our friendly domestic worker, who will tidy up the homestead each morning, ensuring a comfortable and clean environment.
- HOME SAFETY: The homestead is equipped with an electric fence and requires life jackets for kayaking or swimming. While we do not have cameras, an alarm system is in place to enhance security. Guests will need to sign an indemnity form for mutual safety. For emergencies, a fire extinguisher and first aid kit are readily available, ensuring a well-prepared and secure environment.
- PET FRIENDLY: At the Farmhouse, we are absolutely fur-baby friendly! We would love for you to bring your dogs with you during your stay, as we know they are just as much a part of the family. They can enjoy our lovely garden or take a refreshing dip to cool off.
The Farmhouse offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and peaceful relaxation. Here, each sunset promises a stunning spectacle, each morning greets you with dew-kissed tranquillity, and every day concludes with the satisfaction of time well spent in nature. Unwind in the natural rock pools, cherish the quiet moments by our charming waterfall, and allow the breathtaking views of the Drakensberg foothills to envelop you in serenity.
EXPERIENCES
SWIMMING AND RELAXING
Nestled beside the dam just 3 kilometres away, the soothing sound of a small waterfall flows into a naturally formed rock pool, inspiring the name “Little Falls.” Guests are encouraged to visit this tranquil spot, where they can relax on a spacious wooden deck or take a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
To ensure the safety of families with young children, the area is securely fenced, with gates providing controlled access to the water. This thoughtful measure allows all our guests to enjoy a peaceful and safe environment. If you’d like to fish in the dam, please speak with Richard for information about the kayaks and directions.
EXPLORE THE DAM BY KAYAK
Experience the vibrant wildlife and lush plant life around the dam by taking one of our kayaks for a paddle. You’ll find three kayaks, complete with paddles and life jackets, located near the garage. After your adventure, please return the kayaks to the shaded area to protect them from sun damage. For your safety, it is essential to always wear a life jacket while using the kayaks.
In our commitment to creating a secure space for families and pets, we have installed gates leading to the water’s edge. We kindly ask that you keep these gates closed to ensure the safety of all guests, especially little ones and furry friends.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Our region is a paradise for cycling enthusiasts, and we’re always here to help you find your way or suggest various route options. Located about 67 kilometres from The Farmhouse, the Karkloof Mountain Bike Trails are renowned for having some of the best biking paths in KwaZulu-Natal. Starting at the Karkloof Country Club, you can get guidance on a wide range of routes tailored to different skill levels and preferences. Cost for Visitors: R30 per day.
If you’re looking to explore further, consider the Drakensberg MTB Trails near Bergville or the Cascades MTB Park in Pietermaritzburg. For those seeking even more adventure, you can find detailed information on mountain biking trails throughout South Africa by clicking here. If you’re interested in local routes, don’t hesitate to chat with us; we often cycle around the area and would be happy to provide recommendations.
For outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, the Kamberg area boasts a wealth of stunning trails. With its diverse landscapes, you’ll discover routes that not only challenge you but also reward you with breathtaking views and serene natural beauty.
HIKES AND TRAIL RUNS
Embarking on a mountain hike is one of the best ways to connect with nature and escape the stresses of daily life. Renowned for their breathtaking landscapes, the Drakensberg region and Kamberg area offer some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country. Among these, the Giants Castle Berg View Trail stands out.
This 6.4-kilometre loop trail, located near Highmoor in KwaZulu-Natal, is considered moderately challenging and typically takes about two hours to complete. It provides an excellent option for both dedicated hikers and those seeking a leisurely stroll. With its secluded path, you’re unlikely to encounter many other hikers, ensuring a quiet and intimate experience with the natural world. This tranquil setting makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors.
Cost: Visitors R30 per day
For those wanting to explore a bit further, there are also the Drakensberg MTB Trails near Bergville and Cascades MTB Park in Pietermaritzburg.
Looking for more? Find more detailed information on mountain-biking trails across South Africa here or chat to us about route options, as we often cycle around the area and will gladly assist.
GOLFING
For passionate golfers looking for new challenges, the picturesque Nottingham Road area is home to Gowrie Farm Golf Course, where you can book an 18-hole game. Another fantastic option is Bosch Hoek Golf Club, which provides a distinguished golfing experience and adds variety to your game. Remember to bring your golf clubs and plan your next round!
Contact details:
- Gowrie Farm Golf Course: 033 266 6348, OR
- Bosch Hoek Golf Club: 033 234 4232
ADRENALINE-PUMPING WHITE RIVER RAFTING AND MORE
For those who seek adventure, Four Rivers Rafting and Adventures is the perfect destination. Situated near Winterton in the Central Drakensberg, approximately 85 km from The Farmhouse, this venue provides a wide range of thrilling activities. Experience the rush of white river rafting, soar through the air on a zip line, engage in a friendly paintball match, or explore the terrain on quad bikes while kloofing in Kong Canyon – there’s something to satisfy every adrenaline junkie.
If you’re up for a bit of travel, consider heading 150 kilometres towards Bergville to discover All Out Adventures. This location offers a fantastic selection of activities, including quad biking, mountain biking, and zip lining, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Drakensberg, making it an ideal spot for those looking to combine excitement with breathtaking scenery.
Contact details:
Four Rivers Rafting and Adventures:
[email protected]
083 785 1693
All Out Adventures:
079 417 4989
HOT AIR BALLOONING
Take your adventure to new heights with a hot air balloon ride over the Glen Gray area of Winterton, where you’ll enjoy spectacular vistas of the Drakensberg mountains from the air. Just 8 kilometres outside Winterton, Drakensberg Ballooning offers daily flights, giving you a unique opportunity to see these breathtaking landscapes from above. This unforgettable experience is a fantastic addition to your bucket list, allowing you to soak in the incredible beauty of the Drakensberg Mountains from an entirely new angle.
RESTAURANTS AND MORE
Our region boasts a wonderful selection of restaurants and breweries, each offering its own distinct flavours and atmosphere. A top choice is La Lampara, a fantastic Italian eatery known for its lively vibe, especially on weekends. To ensure you have a table, we recommend reserving in advance by calling 082 416 0195.
If you’re looking for a warm pub with delicious food and an energetic setting, Bierfassl is the perfect spot. This establishment features an impressive range of over 35 international beers, including local draughts from Nottingham Road Brewery, and is famous for its authentic German dishes.
Coffee lovers and lunch seekers will adore Terbodore Coffee Roasters, celebrated for its excellent coffee and lunch menu. For a delightful breakfast experience, Blueberry Cafe on Nottingham Road is a must-visit, known for its signature homegrown steaks and delectable blueberry cheesecake. Don’t forget to check out their restrooms, which offer a breathtaking view of the grassy fields where their impressive Ankole cattle and alpacas graze.
For a taste of local culture and fresh produce, make your way to The Karkloof Farmers Market, open Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.; Piggly Wiggly; and The Old Mushroom Farm. To assist with your exploration, we’ve placed a Midlands Meander Booklet on the kitchen table filled with recommendations for various routes throughout the Midlands Meander. If you’d like to take a booklet home as a memento, please leave R30 on the kitchen counter when you check out.
RATES
Contact Details
Contact us directly to book your stay and receive the best available booking rates.
Anè / Kirsten
[email protected]
063 918 1602 / 072 749 4491
