Designed in typical Cape style, this modern cottage on a pretty farm of onions, pumpkins and vines is set against a hill with sweeping views of vineyards, a dam and browsing Brahman cattle. The open-plan, double-volume space has a lounge/kitchen and en-suite bedroom on the ground floor and two single beds up a curved flight of stairs on the upper level. Clay floor tiles, white linen and bright graphic-print cushions give the cottage an uncluttered, airy feel. Varkenskraal Farm is sandwiched between De Rust and Meiringspoort’s soaring cliffs, so there is much to explore. Walk on the farm (kudu and wild pig hide in the kloofs), then enjoy breakfast in De Rust at the Village Trading Post. After peeking into craft shops, drive through the awesome sandstone walls of the poort, stopping to walk the short trail to the waterfall. Meiringspoort is also a gateway to Prince Albert, with its famous dairy, wine and olive farms. – Mariëlle Renssen (https://www.countrylife.co.za/travel/countryescapes/14-favourite-farmstays)
