Secluded Karoo sanctuary
Stoney Cottage is a calming countryside escape, overlooking the Touwsberg Private Game and Nature Reserve, where the beauty of the Karoo is yours for beholding.
Completely secluded and encased in nature, Stoney Cottage summons all of your senses and whisks you away with the pulse of the Karoo‘s heartbeat. An off-the-grid, solar-powered sanctuary, with wrap around verandahs and outdoor bathtubs evoking all things native and natural. Plush, comfy couches perfectly positioned beneath the open skies, and garden benches cushioned into the veld of the Touwsberg Private Game and Nature Reserve. Shaded by quiver and camel thorn trees that scatter themselves amongst the landscape.
With its four rustically romantic bedrooms and three delightfully spacious bathrooms, this hideaway can accommodate as many as eight of your favourite countryside clan. Layered in all of the luxuries you need when escaping to the wilderness of the Karoo, Stoney Cottage retains all of its authenticity and integrity in its build. The rugged beauty of its packed slate walls manage to ground you in their complex simplicity. The expansive wrap-around decks stretch out like open arms, beckoning you to all of the reading and resting nooks. A gentle latte overhangs, offering respite from the sweltering summer sun.
There are subtle suggestions everywhere, of that typical farmhouse vernacular, reminding you to turn the heat down to a simmer in the open-plan kitchen and dining area. It’s a go-slow getaway after all. The interiors have been stylishly and authentically put together, effortlessly blending in with the rugged surroundings. Vibrant Persian rugs, soft throws, and an array of antique furnishings and paintings add to the character of the cottage.
Bathing beneath the stars
Of all of the many things that make this hideaway so special, it’s the relationship it has with the land that it occupies that stands out. Being in complete harmony with the prevailing ecosystem. Stoney Cottage operates entirely off-the-grid—its solar power generating all of the electricity, and gas providing warmth for geysers and cooking. Yet, despite the modern comforts, there’s something undeniably magical about this place at night. As the sun begins to dip, the flickering of the candles and lanterns light up every space. And then there’s the vast, star-strewn Karoo sky.
Pack your walking shoes, your binoculars, your books and your swimming attire. As you’ll be out exploring the nature trails and large rock pools around the clock. Games on the verandah whilst the next feast is being prepared in the kitchen. Chats around the fire-pit at the boma. Star gazing and Indulging in the rare, quiet luxury of this perfect Karoo hideaway.
What we love!
- Tucked away in a secluded nature reserve, just off the famous R62, Stoney Cottage offers a tranquil retreat from the rush of daily life.
- Listening to the sound of stillness and the dawn chirps of the Karoo Korhaan.
- The views of the landscape from every angle of the cottage – whatever the season or time of day.
- Going on long walks around the reserve. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it out in the veld. Or afternoon snacks and sundowners.
- Spending time around boma area where you can gather in the late afternoons / evenings, watching the sun go down as the odd antelope and zebra freely roam around the landscape. Then the stars come out and blanket the night skies.
What you need to know…
- The cottage can accommodate as many as 8 guests – ideally 6 adults & 2 children.
- The property is a three and a half-hour drive from Cape Town, along the famous R62 – a memorable adventure for the whole travelling team.
- The property is completely off-the-grid, with solar power and a back-up generator. There is decent Wifi at the cottage.
- If Stoney Cottage is not available on your dates, browse our full collection of exclusive-use holiday houses in the Karoo.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie