When the owners of Corymbia Farm discovered their tranquil pocket of paradise on the slopes of the Banhoek Valley – surrounded by the Simonsberg and Drakenstein Mountain ranges – it was the cluster of five Corymbia trees at the bottom of the property that first spoke to them. Signifying a spot for them to lay some of their own roots, adjacent these beautiful red blooms, for their own fruitful family life in the winelands to begin.
Having secured the skills of an esteemed architect they’d ardently followed for years prior, they parlayed the sketches that Nicholas Plewman marked into the sand, into a beautiful, authentic farmhouse. Emerging like a tree, branching out into its open spaces, one familial twig at a time.
Corymbia Farm is settled on just over four and a half hectares of land. Young vines and ancient olive groves sit side by side one another. A veggie patch and lush rolling lawn sprawls the garden, gently unravelling into the valley below. Set on one level of open-plan living, dining and entertaining spaces, with a lovely long stoep resting as front row seats to the spectacular views, this hideaway is a perfect attribute to the Stellenbosch wine region. Four ensuite bedrooms – all furnished in statement collectables and sentimental souvenirs – position themselves with purpose, ensuring the views are captured from every corner. Vintage Argentinian pieces accompany the owner’s signature pieces of art. Alongside the repurposed stone that was dug up with the build. Boulders reshaped into stepping stones. A stable barn door crafted by a dear old friend marking the entrance to the home with an affectionate welcome. A home that’s rustic, eclectic and sincerely sharing its tales of travel.
With all of the happenings in the winelands, you’ll be tempted to the tables of the incredible tasting spots around the region. The scenic drives, the fabulous foodie jaunts, the market places and the nature trails. For those days when you’d all like to simply sit still, embracing the views, the valley air and the tranquil splendour of Corymbia Farm, you and the clan will be fully satiated, cups overflowing. Early morning rises with the birds – their chorus declaring the dawn. Coffee on the stoep and an early dip in the swimming pool. A walk amongst the groves and the vines followed by an art session in the studio. A long lunch on the verandah courtesy of the braai masters or pizza aficionados. An afternoon snooze in one of the many languid lounging spots witnessing the mountains turn to pink as you ponder the peripheries of gratitude. When night falls and the valley’s speckled with energy below, you’ll gather around the fire-pit, sharing stories that echo a similar sentiment to those that are told in this home. From the roots of the Corymbia trees to the paintings on the walls.
What we love!
- Sauntering through the veggie garden with the resident Orpington chickens as companions. Enticing you to source the freshest herbs as your pizza topping.
- Spending time cooking in the gorgeous country-style kitchen. All gathered around. With the courtyard’s pond trickling away in the background.
- Afternoon tea on the stoep or in the garden. In the courtyard or in one of the many relaxed reclining areas.
- Evenings spent beside the swimming pool, as the mountains transform their colours.
- Every room, from every aspect delivers the most beautiful views of its surroundings.
What you need to know…
- Corymbia Farm is situated on just over 4.5 hectares of a soft-farming wine and olive farm. The vines are young yet the 200 or so olive trees are old enough to bear their fruit for pressing. A gesture the owners love to make when gifting their loved ones.
- The Banhoek Valley is on the outskirts of Stellenbosch, along the Helshoogte Pass. No more than 15 minutes from the centre of Stellenbosch, a darling village filled to the brim of bakeries, butcheries, delicatessens, art galleries, boutiques, wine estates, great eateries and a university should you please.
- Boschendal is a wonderful estate to visit. Especially for the Friday market and odd swim in their dams.
- There is a wonderful full-time housekeeper that resides on the property. As well as a gardener who will assist with daily house matters.
- With the owner being an artist there is a studio on the property that guests are at liberty to use, provided they bring their own art supplies.
- There are an abundance of hiking and nature trails in the surrounding mountains. The best way to start any day, traversing the tracks, overlooking the most spectacular terrain.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie