As the images illustrate, Bosjes Herehuis is a truly unique destination. Revered for its blend of iconic contemporary architecture with its historical Cape Dutch homestead, settled within the serene Breedekloof Valley. Where the Witzenberg and Slanghoek Mountain Ranges soar above the rich fynbos landscape – beautifully snow-capped in winter, glistening green and gold in summer.
Where the starlings, the swallows and the sunbirds nest. The fish eagles bellow their signature call alongside the Egyptian Geese. The air is intoxicating and the light is nature’s way of setting the mood. Affectionately draping itself across the merging terrain of Worcester, Ceres and Tulbagh. It’s as if all of the entertainment of your holiday in the Cape Winelands comes from the landscape. Perhaps that’s why so much of the hideaway is made of glass. Not competing with nature, inviting the drama of every viewpoint in. Ever constant with those close encounters.
You and as many as thirty-one of your favourite people – or just you and one special other – will be welcomed into Bosjes Herehuis with an earnest commandment to adjust your clocks to that of the land. You’ll rise from one of the twelve beautiful suites in the homestead with the sound of the birdlife and the scent of the dew on the long grass. Early morning yoga in the silent, spiritual garden adjacent the chapel. A slow breakfast at the lavish kombuis, where the feasting reflects the history and culinary traditions of the farm. Followed by an hour or two beside the heated swimming pool. A guided walk through the different aloe, succulent and grass gardens. Learning all about the fynbos (of which it has been deemed the highest concentration of indigenous plants burgeoning from the diversity of soils, in such a small area). As well as the Biblical plants that are rooted into the soil, the architecture, and of course a meander around the iconic chapel. The stunning water feature, and the canopy walkway and labyrinth. Nature’s wonders dropping your jaws at every turn. Perhaps a sumptuous spa treatment to set the limbs in motion for an afternoon hike along the 5km or 8km trails to the lookout point. Or you could catch a ride in the guide’s vehicle who’ll transport you to the spot where the antelope graze. Or an excursion on the farm, witnessing the flowers being cut and the grapes being plucked. Some might fancy a bit of gin tasting at the nearby Monks Distillery. A sensory experience at Seven Oaks down the road. Of course, there will be sun-worshipping from the day loungers and star-gazing around the boma at night. Every element of your stay at Bosjes Herehuis will be delicately embroidered into the landscape, shaping each experience in rhythm with nature.
Architecture, wellness and nature
For some of you, this will be the place that harbours one of the most momentous occasions of your life. A special multigenerational gathering, nurturing each other’s eccentricities in a soulful environment! A wedding, a milestone celebration, or a buddy moon. Yes, saying ‘We do’ for weeks on end is so hot right now. This heavenly hideaway has it all. But most importantly, it’ll dish up a decent dose of authentic, farm life. Layered in those essential luxuries, with the essence of nature at the helm.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie