It’s all in the name. The promise of new beginnings, or a new sense of hope with all that’s to come. The way we travel and see ourselves being shaped by the new terrain we traverse. What our relationship is to the landscape we discover. The cultures we comprehend and the soil we settle upon.
Nieuwe Sion represents all of that. Nestled in the Simondium countryside between Franschhoek and Paarl, wrapping itself around the Berg River in the Western Cape, gazing up at the Drakenstein mountains, this hideaway hints to the future, with a venerated historical hum from the past. Honouring the rhythm of nature and all of the seasons, the farm is in full working mode. Producing rare and curious fruits from the rich soil that prevails in the valley.
Not only the grapes and her vines, but red and yellow kiwis – once named Chinese gooseberries – black figs, apples and six different varieties of table grapes too. Citrus orchards and oak woodlands. Wild Jasmine covering the clay tennis court walls and more oaks shading the swimming pool loungers. Wheat fields, herb and vegetables gardens, and acres and acres of rolling green lawns. All encapsulating an innate essence of farm living.
That’s what’s so special about Nieuwe Sion. Yes, its contemporary rendition of a Cape farm has been fluently layered together. The laidback loveliness of the interiors are entirely understated; humble as they come, yet deliciously lavish and decadent in quality. All the luxuries one needs, in harmony with the art and statement pieces. A conscious celebration of local designers and artisans, exhibited with intent. Showcasing the inspiring relationship between nature and its vibrant palette, culture and its diverse conversation.
This beautiful family farm welcomes as many as eighteen of you and your clan, exclusively. All nesting under a cluster of farm barns that have been modified over the passing centuries to accommodate the inevitable evolution of luxury travel. Harnessing the heritage and a wholesome simplicity to country life. So that you can hear the birds from all of the trees. Witness the landscape transform in every changing hour of the day. Its colours, its scent, its shapes and its boundless horizon.
So that you can learn about the farm’s eco-conscious, sustainable approach to farming. Tapping into some bespoke experiences that include curated art tours and farm-to-fork cooking workshops. Engaging with local artists and craftsmen that furnish you with more insight into the thriving communities. A retreat that relentlessly reconnects you and your travelling team with the beauty of nature and culture intertwined.
Rural up-skilling and culture conservation
At the heart of your winelands holiday, it’s about the people that you get to share this magical place with. Hosting those long feasting tables. Food, wine and conversation. Walks along the river, with the occasional picnic or sunset spot, set up for a new view of the landscape.
Hop into the back of the farm truck and head out on an educational excursion. Get involved in some crafty creations. Harvest some fruit and vegetables. Swim in the pool or the river.
Snooze beneath the oaks on the lawn. Surrender to the simplicity of the place. For, with all of its pulsing energy of a fully-operating farm, there’s a quiet stillness that comes with it too. Imploring you to connect the little dots that are beginning to pave that pathway of yours to a beautiful new beginning. And that’s what travel has an obstinate way of doing.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie