Left, then right, up the hill and left and then left again. A 200-hectare off-the-grid farm 34km from Hermanus in the Western Cape, HaesFarm is almost off-the-map as well. It is really easy to get to the Overberg farm if you pay attention, but if the sun’s rays are breaking through the clouds and making sunny patches of green on the spring fynbos then the turnoff can be totally overlooked…
Photo by Marinda Louw
HaesFarm is located on a hill with spectacular views of the quaint town of Stanford below and the Hermanus mountains. This setting is further enhanced by the gracious, green and creative hosts. The property of a Dutch and South African couple, HaesFarm’s main building is a sustainable eco-retreat constructed of glass, metal and corrugated panels to maximize sun exposure and views.
It is back to basics at HaesFarm; solar heating, recycling of water and packaging, a vegetable garden, sourcing ingredients from local producers and eating as healthily as possible is the ethos of this lodge. Think fresh-baked gluten-free buns, local cheeses, a smoothie with carrot, pear and apple, basil water and home-made muesli with full-fat yogurt and fruit salad…
HaesFarm’s two open-plan bedrooms overlook either the valley or mountain and have massive walk-in showers (suitable even for mobility-impaired guests) huge beds, the silkiest of linens, biodegradable toiletries, robes, original art and a private patio. A coffee/tea tray (with rusks and fresh milk) and a platter of caramelized nuts, strawberries and tiny apples, complete the in-room welcoming.
Photo by Marinda Louw
The main lounge area has a vast selection of contemporary art, books and music, while the square leather couches invite guests to relax and immerse themselves in either the view or quality reading time. (Wi-Fi is limited to the lounge area, and there is no TV.)
Activities on the farm and in the area include hiking, mountain biking, wine tasting, visiting local breweries, cheese makers or restaurants, but the best that HaesFarm offers is a digital detox and a reconnection to nature. A stylish, inspiring and tranquil destination suitable for adults — stay two nights for best results.
To book, click here.
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