A River Retreat in the Countryside!
Koningsfontein is a dreamy Garden Route getaway, on the banks of the GouKou River, upstream from the shores of Stilbaai, where the best family holiday memories are made.
It’s a little bit like standing in front of a canvas, face to face with the works of J.H. Pierneef, when arriving at Koningsfontein. An evocative wave of nostalgia taps you on the shoulder and reacquaints you with a visual of home. Whether you’ve lived there or not. A familial embrace from those forefathers that built the farm. You know, instantaneously, that you are exactly where you need to be, with all of those that you get you to share this riverside hideaway with, for all of the days to come.
Perched upon a rugged kopje, surrounded by the prolific fynbos veld, overlooking the meandering GouKou River that bends and flows all the way down to the ocean – a mere 7km away – Kongingsfontein graciously invites you in to its Cape Dutch farm-style spaces, like an old friend would. Every room – from the open-plan living and dining areas, to the six country-style, cottage-charactered bedrooms – have a way of whisking you out with the views. Through windows, across the neighbouring pastures, down the river and into the dusty horizon. There’s a lovely laidback essence to the home, that’s evident in the soft, comfy furnishings, the long dining tables and cosy reclining areas. All settled beneath the thatch and centred around the fireplaces. Yet entirely equipped with all of the necessary amenities you’ll need. Two separate braai areas to accommodate the weather and the day’s mood. You know it’ll be one of those holidays where you’ll be scattered around the place, in rhythm with the river’s tranquil tempo. Some will be cooking, whilst others are gathered around the tables playing games. Reading, resting and reconnecting with one another. Plenty of swimming, kayaking and paddle boarding. Boating downstream towards Stilbaai Picnicking on your own 300-metre stretch of sand, scouring the banks for nature’s treasures. For those that enjoy a bit of fishing, there’s a catch-and-release protection policy in place, to preserve the bass population of the water.Â
Sunset cruises on the river, watching the sheep graze the neighbouring pastures
Of course there will also be those hours of exploration where you climb aboard the boat – there is a Linder Sportman 400 for hire, should you not have your own. Head downstream to the river mouth that meets the ocean. Tap into the beach life of Stilbaai. Enjoy some olive oil, wine and gin tasting at the nearby estates. Stopping off at the old harbour anchorage for some fish and chips. Then back on the river for a smooth cruise home, to where the fireplaces are alive with their forefather’s energy. Ready to tell tales around the flames, all night long, until the cows come home. Painting that perfect depiction of a family holiday beside the river, that’ll be framed for all of the generations to come.
What we love!
- Sitting down at the antique table, beside the window, in the little nook above the garage. With a hot brew, admiring the view. It’s all about the quiet, morning moments in a very cosy space, as you watch the small buck and little wildlife begin their day too.
- The location of the property is ideal for those yearning a bit of time in nature. Surrounded by water and a tranquil landscape that lends itself as an endless playground. There are also a number of cycling trails, so remember to pack the bikes. You can spend days beside the river and then venture off to sea on the days you’re thirsty for some salt water.
- The farm-style kitchen is great for all of the fun around the tables. The fires are going – whatever the weather – and the cooks are simmering up a storm of a feasting that you know will go on for hours. Just as every multigenerational gathering should be.
What you need to know…
- The property is located on the GouKou River, 7km upstream from the seaside town of Stilbaai. Only a 3-4 hour drive from Cape Town. You do not need a high-clearance vehicle to access the house.
- If you do not have your own boat, there is a Linder Sportman 400 for hire. Great for easy river cruising with a 15hp engine, so you don’t need a skipper’s license to drive.
- Make sure you head out and visit the wine and olive estate of Baleia – a local smorgasbord of culinary treats!
- Jakkalsvlei winery and Inverroche Distillery should also be on your to-do adventure list.
- The river is great for swimming in, and offers sublime boating experiences, with a catch-and-release fishing policy.
- If Kongingsfontein is not available on your dates, browse our full collection of exclusive-use holiday houses in Stilbaai.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie