Forget fruit, farm animals or vines. Haesfarm, just off the beaten track near the cute little town of Stanford and a mere two hours’ drive from Cape Town, offers you a B&B experience with a difference: here, it’s all about rest, relaxation and sustainable living.
Run by partners Harry and Steyn, the newly renovated farmhouse sits on 40 hectares of fynbos land that forms part of a larger biosphere stretching from the West Coast to the Garden Route, and can accommodate only four people at a time, providing visitors a tranquil, off-the-grid space in which to disconnect from their busy lives. So much so, that, apart from the local produce – all sourced from within a 10 km radius, the farm is entirely self-sustainable with a vegetable garden, solar panels and a borehole providing all electricity and water needs to the farm and house.
Haesfarm’s true charm, though, lies in its cavernous and modern interior. Peel your eyes away from the valley and through the large glass doors leading onto the patio and library, fully stocked with both modern and classic works of literature, and personal art collected during the owners’ extensive travel. The library is also equipped with Wifi and hot desks (if you simply cannot tear yourself away from your tech). Each of the cosy rooms, modern yet minimal and staying true to the aesthetic of the farm with books and art strategically placed along the walls, looks out to a different view of the surrounding area, each benefitting from the sun at different times of the day.
After delighting in Steyn’s home-made treats (all vegan-friendly and delicious, of course!), while the afternoon away in a sunny spot, book or magazine in hand, and enjoy a local brew or wine from the farm’s honesty bar. If you’ve had the good sense to plan ahead, Haesfarm offers dinner prepared from their garden as well as massage services (both dinner and massages need to be booked at least 24 hours in advance). Or venture afield, into Stanford or to one of the surrounding vineyards for wine tastings and lunch and dinner menus to rival the best. The Haesfarm Gazette, prepared with each guest’s needs in mind, will be your go-to guide for the area. The farm policy allows for a minimum of two nights but, trust us, you’ll want to extend your stay….
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Get there Papasvlei, Elim Road, Stanford
Contact 071 569 7993, [email protected], haesfarm.com
Photography Courtesy images