Jackals Rest plants itself into the countryside soil, shaped by the stillness, the stars, and the peculiar magic of the land. The house feels both grounded and generous, with two beautifully appointed bedrooms and welcoming living spaces designed for gathering.
Jackals Rest sits just outside of Montagu, overlooking the Anysberg mountains, and the rolling, rugged terrain of the Klein Karoo, where small groups can gather in nature, embracing the sublime existence that unravels.
Just two and a half hours from Cape Town, followed by a scenic 22km gravel road from Montagu, Jackals Rest at Highlands Guest Farm offers a rare sense of escape. Set deep within the Klein Karoo, the landscape unfolds in every direction – wide open skies, rugged mountains, silence and space to simply be. A gentle reminder of how lovely life can be when it’s just you, your few favourite travelling companions, and the silence.
The Klein Karoo captivates your wandering heart with its transforming colours as the Ouberg mountains hold the light differently, and the air carries a pungent scent of wild fynbos, warmed by the sun’s rays. Wood-burning fireplaces warm both the kitchen and living area, inviting long dinners, slow breakfasts, and winter evenings spent cocooned in comfort. A projector suggests the occasional film fest, as well as a decent selection of board games for you and the clan to tuck into, when the night’s sky has done enough entertaining.
Minimal design, maximum tranquillity
The hideaway unfolds beautifully into the landscape, embracing its earthy materials and remote cabin-like features. A sun deck with loungers stretches towards the mountains, beside a zinc dam swimming pool, offering relief beneath the Karoo sun. At dusk, the wood-fired hot tub becomes the occupation and conversation point. Steam curling into the crisp evening air, while the first stars scatter overhead. The boma fire pit and built-in braai area beckons you over for more chats. Flames crackling, glasses clinking, and voices cackling with the night.
The indoor braai and wood-fired pizza oven form the social heart of the home, where holiday feasts and flour-dusted evenings unfold. You’re at liberty to self-cater, bringing all the favourite provisions from Montagu’s markets and quirky padstals along the way. Or you can opt for the deliciously prepared seasonal meal packages, waiting in the fridge upon arrival. Fresh pasta, bread, and pizza dough can be arranged in advance, allowing meals to unfold at your own pace.
Everything essential has already been considered. Breakfast is included each morning, along with tea, filter coffee, milk, bottled still and sparkling water, WiFi, daily servicing, and generous stacks of firewood for every fireside spot. An honesty bar and snack basket stocked with local treats add an authentic touch of Karoo hospitality.
All that’s left for you to discover is the diversity of the landscape that surrounds. Electric bicycles are on offer for some gentle exploration around the farm. Guided nature drives can be arranged, and sundowners in hidden scenic spots. Many a long afternoon will be spent beside the saltwater pool, dipping in and out in accordance with your thermostat. As you watch the shadows move across the mountains, the birds soar through the open skies and the occasional antelope saunter by. All the elements of the Karoo being the true itinerary for you and your clan to ponder. One epiphany after the other.
Written by Colleen Ogilvie