Tucked discreetly between the vines of the neighbouring wine farms, and the vitality of the village of Franschhoek – a mere three-minute amble, in fact – Varuna offers a rare blend of rural charm with refined elegance. This enchanting country estate, set on five hectares of beautifully landscaped grounds, is a place for you and your chosen clan to gather, and experience something completely unique about the winelands. A revered destination for its world-class wines and fine dining restaurants. Its boundless natural beauty courtesy of the verdant landscape, and its long-standing reputation as being the voguish village of the Western Cape. Varuna dishes up all of the holiday wish list essentials on silver platters, but does so much more, too.
The family that created this wonderland of a winelands spot, have emblazoned their sustainability stamp across the estate. Avenues of ancient trees, and a scattering of younger ones – each thoughtfully named and labelled – stand sentinel across the estate. Their wisdom shading the lush lawns, the secret reading spots, and terraced gardens that roll into wild grass meadows. In the mornings, the garden comes alive with birdsong. Herbs ready for picking, vegetables bursting with colour, and chickens offering up fresh eggs from their coup. They’re an integral part of the welcome committee, so you’re likely to be greeted by them upon arrival.
A private walking trail encircles the property. Ideal for those early morning mindful meanders. Or letting the kids roam free. There are so many lovely little places to pause. To take in the stillness of the surroundings, listening to the conversation that comes from the landscape. There’s a full-size tennis court and a pristine 20-metre heated swimming pool. Framed by staggering mountain views and all of the magnificent trees. There’s a jungle gym, too, and plenty of hide ’n seek spots to keep the kids busy. Some of you will be occupying the soft circle of grass, where two chairs sit, perfectly positioned for sundowners and deep chats.
Farmhouse feels with artsy villa opulence
The home is delightfully spacious, and generously divided and adjoined where necessary. It’s a sophisticated, coned country manor with seven glorious suites to get lost in. All overlooking a lovely central courtyard, which becomes a riot of jasmine in spring. Breakfasts in the courtyard are utterly sublime. The suites are individually styled with their own little stories to tell from a lifetime or two of travels. The home is full of character and comfort. Kilims and antique cabinetry. Family heirlooms, murals and sculptural statements by Dylan Lewis and Angus Taylor.
High ceilings, French doors and large bay windows let the colours, shapes and light from the landscape float its way inside. Whether you’re making the most of the chef’s kitchen, or gathered around the long dining table. Or reclining in one of the living rooms, or out on the verandahs, all of the spaces flow in harmony with one another. Constantly reminding you about what’s happening outside.
At the helm of this home – its core philosophy and perhaps the first feeling you get when you arrive – is its subtle message of reconnecting with the soul of the soil. You have everything around you that one might desire from a winelands adventure. But you also have the pleasure of being ensconced in nature on your own exclusive estate. Surrounded by trees, old and young. By the farm animals, the birds and the beautiful gardens. The organic herbs and vegetables, fresh and ready for the next meal. The views and your chosen company. The special people that you get to share this very special place with.
Written by Colleen Ogilvie
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