Melkkamer Homestead, De Hoop

Melkkamer is the old homestead on the far side of the De Hoop Vlei from the Opstal, a 40-minute drive around the water inside De Hoop Nature Reserve. Its three sandstone buildings date from the late 1800s. There is no mains electricity: the houses run on gas, with lanterns, candles and fires in the evening, and a generator runs at set times for the Manor House and the Foreman's Cottage.

Melkkamer Manor House is sold for sole use on a fully catered and guided basis, with a chef and host throughout the stay. Its four en-suite bedrooms, two with king beds and two twins, all have baths and showers, and there is a large farmhouse kitchen, a dining room and a lounge with fireplaces, and a braai area under the milkwoods. Meals are included, along with guided activities: a marine walk, a nature drive, a guided mountain bike ride and a bird and vlei walk. Drinks are for guests' own account, and a minimum of five guests and two nights applies.

The Melkkamer Vlei Cottage looks over the water, with four bedrooms, two shower rooms, a gas kitchen and a fireplace. The Foreman's Cottage is tucked into the milkwoods behind the Manor House, with three bedrooms, a bathroom with a bath and a hot outdoor shower. Both are self-catering and serviced daily.

There are no shops or facilities at Melkkamer and the nearest towns are an hour away, so bring all your supplies; dinner at The Fig Tree Restaurant at the Opstal can be booked. The homestead suits birders especially well, and boat trips on the vlei run when the weather allows.