The original farmhouse of Keerweer – settled at the foot of the Stellenbosch mountains in the upper reaches of Blaauwklippen Valley – entombs itself within its contemporary progeny. Like a chaperone of the past century, escorting Keerweer’s character into the next, embellishing the luxury, the opulence and the refinery of its interiors, with an affectionate, age-old charm.
The owners of Keerweer have considered the spectacular land that this farmhouse sits upon, honouring its natural beauty and tranquility by mirroring all that’s going on outside, with its interiors. The Manor House and accompanying barn apartments are supremely styled in layers of natural textures and neutral tones, lavish furnishings and fittings, and modern amenities that come as a novelty given the property is off-the-grid. An authentic elegance defined throughout all of the living spaces, the farm-style open-plan kitchen, dining and entertaining spaces, the outdoor lounging spaces and resplendent reclining spaces.
The Manor House comprises of a two-bedroomed ensuite farmhouse, with an upstairs office space and open-flowing living, dining and entertaining spaces. Tall glass doors open out onto a mammoth stoep with ample seating areas, a fire pit and separate braai area. A beautiful weeping willow shades a portion of the stoep that’s overlooking the rolling lush lawns and vineyards, the giant old oaks and fruit orchards, the vegetable and herb gardens, the swimming pool and the rows of indigenous flowers, all encased by the mountains.
The separate barn apartments both dish up another serving of style and luxury in their single ensuite enclaves, overlooking the magnificent landscape. The ideal appendage to the Manor House, the apartments can be incorporated into your stay as an exclusive getaway with the whole clan, or independently for a couple or two’s retreat.
Days at Keerweer will unfold in accordance with the tempo of your lovely travelling team. Early morning walks around the property, along the gravel farm lanes, amongst the vines, the guava, apple, lemon, lime, pomegranate and fig trees. Endless hours of swimming in the pool. Some might fancy a venture into the town of Stellenbosch for some market sourcing or wine tasting. The drive is so scenic it becomes the main attraction. Others might prefer a mountain hike along the many nature trails in the area. Or perhaps just a gentle afternoon in the garden, on a blanket with a book, shaded by the Turkish, English and Japanese Oaks. As the sporty members participate in a round of cricket on the lawn. The birds will signal the end of the day as they sweep through the changing colours of the sky, with the setting sun’s markings on the mountains. Time to top up the evening tipple for a toast. Light all the fires and freshen up for a farm-style dinner around the tables. Wafts carrying scents of the earth remind you that although you’re ensconced in luxury, you’re still deeply rooted on the soil of the farm.
What we love!
- The sunsets are spectacular from all angles of the property. Whether you’re settled on the stoep or walking around the garden, the mountains are alight with colour and the farmhouse looks particularly beautiful in its architectural form against the landscape.
- Being able to pick your own fruit and vegetables on the farm, snacking from the trees and sourcing from the ground.
- The Eerste Eiver flowing through the property, adding that natural source of water that is pacifying to meander along.
What you need to know…
- The property is off-the-grid with the use of solar panels and back-up batteries so you won’t be affected by any power outages.
- The farmhouse rests adjacent a working farm with vineyards being tended to by the avid grape growers. So the odd tractor will drive up and down the farm roads. Adding to the romance of farm life.
- There are some lovely walks in the area. Head down the Blaauwklippen road, towards the neighbouring wine farms for some brilliant biking and running trails.
- The town of Stellenbosch is no more than 15kms from the farm, along a particularly scenic dirt road, passing some lovely wine estates on the way.
- There is daily housekeeping during the days of the week. If necessary, it may be arranged at the weekends too, prior to your arrival.
- Please do not drive on the beautiful lawn. It breaks the hearts of the resident birds, the small wildlife, the bees and the flowers, as well as the owners.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie