Handpicked for you...

There are some homeowners who effortlessly weave a rich story through the style and character of their home’s wares, who create a narrative for their houses to sing to those who wonder through their open doors. Indeed, the owners, have spun a Cape Dutch fairy tale in the rustic and infinitely charming form of Jonkmanshof, two guest houses a few doors from each other, each with two generous suites which can be taken individually or one can take a whole house for exclusive use.

These historic Cape Dutch farmhouses are situated in the tiny town of Montagu, in the western part of South Africa’s Little Karoo. Despite its modest population count, the little farm town boasts some of the most majestic of mountain landscapes. Painted in the traditional warm ochre hue, the gabled farmhouses each have beautifully stocked Mediterranean potted citrus gardens with views onto the surrounding mountainous wilderness.

The interiors of the homes are brimming with nostalgic, richly South African, old-world beauty. From the handmade clay tiles beneath one’s bare summer feet to the original river-reed ceilings, Jonkmanshof homes are something to behold. Almost every room is inhabited by a curated collection of the most magnificent antiques, all of them well-loved and well-used.

The kitchens are as grand as they are inviting and cool, offering a respite from the summer heat and perhaps something to nibble on your afternoon walk through to the garden. At 30 Bath Street, the library, otherwise known as the ‘Room of Curiosities,’ is one of the owners’ favourite spots, amidst the century-old books, treasures and talismans, take a seat, grab the nearest novel and escape.

These are getaway homes of rare and dignified beauty. Once you leave you will have made a generous, elegant, eccentric and richly distinguished new friend in the form of Jonkmanshof.

What we love!

• Jonmanshof is co-owned by super-talent Jacques Erasmus of Hemelhuijs fame – so rest assured you will not want for anything in Jonkmanhof’s glorious kitchens!
• A wonderful three course dinner can be booked at time of making reservation, R695 per person for 2019 bookings, R900 per person for 2020 bookings (excl. drinks), minimum 4 guests.
• If guests would like to experience an exceptional dinner, cooked by Jacques Erasmus, there is an additional charge of R2000.
• Breakfast eggs don’t come much fresher – they are laid in by Jonkmanshof’s ridiculously pretty chickens, found in the gardens.
• Found on the iconic Route 62, the area around Montagu is well known for its excellent hiking trails.

What you need to know…

• In the same street sits Jonkmanshof’s own shop – Nagmaal – with citrus preserves, beautiful ceramics, exquisite dish towels and more.
• Children under 8 are welcome when taking a house for exclusive use.

Have a look at this beautiful video of Jonkmanshof by Valentina Nicol for House and Leisure