An authentic Karoo farm stay
Escape to country living at Daniel’s Kraal Farm, an original farmhouse steeped in history and offering exceptional hospitality, tucked away in a lush valley in the depths of the Klein Karoo.
What is it that makes the Klein Karoo such a magical place? Remote and unchanging, the vast open terrain of this semi-arid region gives your mind space to unwind; the crisp fresh air fills your lungs with vigour and the stunning natural beauty makes you want to reach for an easel and a paintbrush.
The ‘Little’ Karoo is one of South Africa’s subtlest, yet most magnificent, jewels. The only sounds to greet your ears in the crisp air, as the morning sun welcomes you, are birdsong and the whisper of wind through the trees.
Wondering how to get to Daniel’s Kraal Farm? The drive is part of the adventure and takes you along route 62, known as the longest wine route in the world. You drive through the charming town of Calitzdorp, past stretches of rambling vineyards and orchards until you reach Daniel’s Kraal Farm, a hidden getaway settled on 2300 hectares of pristine Karoo wilderness and home to hundreds of species of succulents, plants, birds and wildlife.
The homestead was built in 1836 with its thatched roof, thick walls and expansive veranda, the house holds a tangible nostalgia that transports guests to a time of sweeter, simpler living.
But if you are wondering if such a remote, historic farm stay can cater for your creature comforts, the answer is, absolutely. The modernised bathrooms and fully-equipped kitchen make for easy and chic country living. The gracious veranda invites long summer afternoons spent under ceiling fans, with glorious vistas stretching out over the countryside.
Guests at this self-catering farm accommodation can enjoy G&Ts beneath the silver oak by the pool in warmer months and locally produced port by the crackling fireplace on winter evenings. As night falls, the Karoo sky dazzles with a kaleidoscope of stars, a breathtaking reminder of this splendid desert-like region.
And will there be space for all the clan? Most definitely. This exclusive-use farmhouse is perfect for families or small groups, comfortably sleeping up to eight adults and two children across five beautifully appointed bedrooms. With three tastefully renovated bathrooms, plush linens, mohair throws, and spectacular views of vineyards, olive groves, and the majestic Swartberg mountains, Daniel’s Kraal Farm offers luxurious yet unpretentious farm stay accommodation.
Savour the serenity of country living
The interior of this unique home is classic farm style, with generous living spaces, plush couches, original fireplaces and rich fabrics. Daniel’s Kraal boasts a special treasure trove of loved collectables; old books, found trinkets, foraged fossils and vintage china have all found their proper place in this secret part of the world.
An original, fully restored AGA stove forms the heart of the kitchen and dining area, making this self-catering accommodation perfect for socialising around the table and enjoying home-cooked meals with family and friends.
And when you’ve finished feasting, what activities can you enjoy nearby? From this idyllic base, you can explore hiking trails that weave through rugged landscapes, stroll along peaceful country lanes, enjoy quiet moments birdwatching, or visit nearby vineyards for some delightful wine tasting.
Back at the farmhouse, the peaceful veranda beckons for long, lazy summer afternoons under the gentle breeze of ceiling fans. As night falls, the clear Karoo skies put on a dazzling show of stars — a reminder of the desert’s timeless beauty.
Daniel’s Kraal Farm is a perfect hideaway meant to be truly lived in, a place to be enjoyed and shared. It encourages a slower pace, where life’s simple pleasures take centre stage. Whether you’re drawn to a quieter, more grounded way of being, spending your days hiking rugged terrain, wandering tranquil trails, birdwatching in the stillness, or simply soaking up the wild beauty all around, Daniel’s Kraal Farm offers something truly special — a gentle nudge to savour the present moment.
If Daniel’s Kraal Farm is unavailable to book for your dates, browse our other Perfect Hideaways in the Karoo.
what we love!
- The authentic Karoo setting, with wide-open spaces and a gigantic lawn with stunning views of the Swartberg mountains
- An authentic old-world charm pervades the space, with hand-embroidered linens on the bedrooms ensuring sweet dreams.
- Spending time cooking in the gorgeous country-style kitchen that has everything one needs to whip up a feast, all gathered around the AGA stove that exudes cosiness.
- Summer afternoons and evenings spent on the veranda – the ceiling fans keep it cool and make it perfect for outdoor entertaining.
- Amazing star-gazing opportunities beneath the unpolluted Karoo night sky
- There’s easy access to hiking trails and traversing the tracks, overlooking the most spectacular terrain, is the best way to start any day.
what you need to know…
- From time to time, we hear about a rise in the number of snake and scorpion sightings at some of our game farms and lodges during dry seasons. If you plan to go walking we recommend ensuring you bring good walking shoes and socks, especially important for little ones, as well as long trousers for ticks.
- Pets are not permitted at Daniel’s Kraal Farm both to protect the farm’s resident flocks of poultry, small livestock etc… and to protect pets from resident Cape leopards & baboon troops prevalent in the biosphere surrounding the farm.
- Guests should bring warm clothing for chilly Karoo evenings, especially in winter.
- The farmhouse operates on an exclusive-use basis, so bookings must be for the entire property.
Edited by Dawn Kennedy