Soulful winelands retreat
A serene countryside estate in the heart of the winelands, Varuna is the perfect family escape in Franschhoek where nature, luxury and tranquillity coexist.
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.
What we love!
- Originally a plum farm, Varuna has been ardently developed by a multi-generational European family, whose vision was to create a traditional home where family could gather and unwind. Over the years, the estate has been curated to reflect a deep connection to the landscape and nature.
- Going for a walk around the garden every morning. Occasionally stopping to hug another tree.
- Gathering your own eggs, herbs and vegetables for brunch.
- The property is large enough for all to congregate on the verandahs, in the living rooms, around the long dining tables, and at different spots in the garden. It’s great dining locations beneath the stars on the lawn. There are also plenty of little secret areas to retreat to, enjoying the simple pleasures of solitude for an hour or three.
What you need to know…
- The property is less than a 5-minute walk into the main hub of Franschhoek.Â
- There is daily housekeeping and gardening services on the property. Breakfasts can be arranged upon request, as well as a concierge service, at an additional cost.
- Cape Town International Airport is only a 45-minute drive to and from the property.Â
- Franschhoek is not only about food and wine it’s also about art, cars, culture, history and health. The Drakenstein Correctional Centre, marked by a bronze statue of Nelson Mandela. The Franschhoek motor museum on the L’Ormarins Estate is a backseat journey through a billionaire’s garage.
- The village of Franschhoek is overflowing with fabulous eateries – Liam Tomlin’s Chefs Warehouse at Maison, La Petite Colombe, Bread & Wine, and Le Coin Français. There are also plenty of less fussy, more laid-back restaurants on several reputable wine estates and within the village itself.
- If Varuna is not available on your dates, browse our full collection of exclusive-use holiday houses in Franschhoek.Â
Written by Colleen Ogilvie