The Hemel-en-Aarde valley is place renowned for its wines, set against the backdrop of its towering mountain ranges, rolling vineyards, flowing rivers and dams, cascading down onto farmlands where livestock roam the emerald and golden hilltops. The valley has its way of summoning you to a sense of belonging. A place where the horizons are malleable and ever-changing, the colours are brushed from Constable’s palette, the air poignant in its pathway and the energy aptly depicting its name; that you have stumbled through the open gates and found yourself in heaven, on earth.
This working winery with its exceptional terroir is settled at the foot of the Babylon’s Tower Mountains, on over 45 hectares of private vines, pine forests, olive groves and fruit trees set within beautiful, wild indigenous gardens and rolling lawns, freshwater dams and meandering pathways. Moya’s Vineyard overlooks the land it so stoically occupies and opens out to the boundless views of the valley. At the helm of the manor house rests the voluminous open-plan farm kitchen, living and dining spaces that sit back in their consciously considered areas, allowing the magic of the surroundings to hold centre stage. Four large ensuite bedrooms and a secluded study disperse themselves down corridors, up stairways, under the tall ceilings where natural light floods through the sash windows and French doors. The farm-style interiors and airy ambience from which everything flows, is layered in subtle tones illustrating the elements of earth rising up into the blue of the valley’s skies. Contemporary touches in the kitchen appliances, the Sonos surround system, WIFI throughout, the fine linen and furnishings are humbled by the hideaway’s age-old history, its original bones and steadfast soul. A separate barn cottage with a self-contained suite, bunk-style bedrooms and an entertaining space sits adjacent the main house. After years of languid resting amongst the vines, Moya’s Vineyard has been tenderly restored, exuding a vigour that’s palpable in every room, with every view and every step of your stride, as you glide from space to space.
Spending time at Moya’s Vineyard is like being cradled in the embrace of familial love. There’s a strong sense of security, familiarity and virtue in the build. As you drive the winding avenue, step into the entrance hall and walk through the living spaces, you find yourself overwhelmed by the reacquaintance with something you’ve never met before, yet know intimately well. Perhaps that sentiment of being summoned to belonging, once again. The hours unravel at an idle pace, as if there are days in a day’s existence. Rising with the sun creeping above the pines and the view of the sea in the distance beginning to silver its coat, you’ll enjoy a hot brew on the verandah, watching the swallows sweep overhead. A little saunter around the gardens, an early morning dip in the dam, a game of boules or a trail run into the mountains. When you’re not reclining on one of the daybeds, you’ll be venturing to one of the region’s wine farms, sampling some of the finest grapes and pairing platters as you marvel at the mountains. Perhaps some horse riding on one of the neighbouring equestrian farms. A little trip to nearby Hermanus to stock up on supplies, surf in the ocean and visit the farmer’s markets. You’ll return home to Moya’s Vineyard, where you’ll invest the rest of your hours feasting around the tables, indulging in all of the treats and nibbles, pinot noirs and chardonnays sourced from the day’s excursions. As you salute the day and the sun’s descent over that little golden strip of ocean, the blanket of evening stars light up nature’s full grace. You know where you belong, and who you belong with.
What we love!
- There’s so much to be said about the feel of the property, that comes from the perfect positioning with the light, the views and the energy of the valley.
- There are plenty of walking and mountain biking trails on the farm itself and the neighbouring farms. You’re likely to come across some small wildlife, and the birdlife is also magnificent in the area – birdwatchers will be in paradise.
- Hanging out on the verandah, shaded by the umbrellas, enjoying a hearty tipple of choice and watching the kids skip across the lawn with such gratitude for the space and freedom.
What you need to know…
- Moya’s Vineyard is located a short drive from the seaside town of Hermanus, and about a 90-minute drive from Cape Town.
- The property is self-catering with plenty of wonderful spots to setup picnics under popular trees, or on spacious verandahs. Full catering services can be arranged on request.
- There are an abundance of wonderful wine farms and restaurants to visit on the valley road, just a short drive away from the property. Including Hamilton Russell, Creation Wines, Bouchard Finlayson, Bosman, Ataraxia and the neighbours, Newton Johnson.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie