Boschendal

Boschendal is one of the oldest farms in South Africa, worked since 1685 in the Groot Drakenstein valley between Franschhoek and Stellenbosch. The Simonsberg rises behind it and the Drakenstein mountains close the valley to the east. Today it is a working farm with vineyards, orchards, cattle and a large food garden, run on regenerative lines: the aim is to restore the soil and the ecosystems around it, not simply to sustain them.

At the heart of the farm is the Werf, the historic farmyard around the Manor House, where there is wine tasting, the Arum Restaurant, a deli, a farm shop and butchery, picnics under the oaks and a heritage rose garden. From there you can ride horses, cycle the trails, take a guided wine and wander safari through the vineyards or walk the regeneration fields. A shuttle runs guests around the estate, and every stay includes breakfast and a garden tour.

The accommodation is spread across the farm. The Werf Cottages are a short walk from the Manor House, each with its own patio and a shared pool. The Clarence Cottages sit in private gardens with deep verandas, also within walking distance. Further out, the Orchard Cottages and the 18 Retreat Cottages look across to the mountains, the Retreat with its own restaurant and natural swimming pool. For families and groups there are four self-contained farmhouses with hot tubs, the Cow Shed Cottage, Cottage 1685, designed by Sir Herbert Baker with a private pool and annex, and the six-bedroom Mountain Villa with a pool, a daily host and views down the Franschhoek valley.