Faraway Fields, Piketberg, Western Cape on Budget-Getaways

Budget Getaways Review

Feeling a little hemmed in by life at the foot of Table Mountain? Time perhaps to gain some fresh perspective and altitude via the ever so pretty Versvelds mountain pass, into the Piket-Bo-Berg.

Faraway Fields here we come.

As the name suggests, this 15 ha mountain-top farm (lying 23km from Piketberg) exudes a far-off, wilderness feel, meaning you get to immerse yourself in tranquillity, as well as the wonders of the Cape Floral Kingdom.

Before rushing off to grab that unread novel and hiking boots let's give you the lowdown on the accommodation. The farm has three cottages, namely Garden Cottage (largest of the lot), Sand Cottage and Sky Cottage - the latter two lying a kilometer or so from the main farmhouse on a spectacular fynbos slope.

Starting with Garden Cottage (sleeps four), this is located behind the main farmhouse and is a spacious unit with two bedrooms (one double and a twin), and a bathroom with shower and bath. The lounge/dining room is separate from the kitchen and leads onto two shaded patios with garden and mountain views. A spacious covered braai and dining area adjoins the kitchen. There is a fireplace in the lounge flanked by bookcases that will keep the bookworm in you burrowing for hours on end.

Just down the road, both Sand and Sky Cottages are similar in layout, sleeping four each. They feature a double and twin bedroom, bathroom (shower/bath in Sand, bath only in Sky) and an open-plan lounge/kitchen. Each cottage has a private stoep with kettle braai, and both come with gobsmacking views.

Apart from peace and quiet, the activity list at Faraway Fields centres around the open landscapes, with plenty of mountain hikes, great opportunities for photography, bird-watching, a nearby farmer’s market (last Saturday of each month apart from December), a day out along the Swartland Wine Route or down to the Berg River mouth to sample the bokkoms at Veldrif.

Faraway Fields appears to be an old favourite among returning regulars, with a recent guest commenting, “We have been going to Faraway Fields for years, just because it is that kind of place.”

Maybe you too will join their ranks.

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Guest Reviews

"This was certainly the best weekend of the year, the view is amazing and I will definitely be back soon!"

(visited Oct 2016)

"We had a fantastic stay. We wanted to get away from the noise of the city and the distraction that comes with it, as that often helps you to gain perspective in life. Sky cottage allowed just that. A comfortable cottage with a stunning view, every utensil you could need in the kitchen and a comfortable living area. Thank you to Trevor for a warm welcome and a lovely orientation of the area."

(visited Mar 2016)

"The garden cottage was a perfect choice in winter, with an indoor fireplace and an undercover braai with plentiful wood supplied, it was easy to keep the cold at bay. Our hosts graciously organised walks for us into the Fynbos and even roped in neighbours to share their knowledge and enthusiasm. And two clear nights afforded us the sight of a spectacular Milky Way to rival that seen in Namibia!"

(visited July 2015)

"We had a wonderful long weekend at Faraway Fields. It was a pleasure arriving at night to a toasty cottage courtesy of the fireplace. We enjoyed the walks among the rocks and the amazing indigenous garden. It was also immense fun trying our hands at HFT. Very much enjoyed out stay at well kitted out garden cottage."

(visited June 2015)

"There is simply nothing to complain about our visit to Faraway Fields. Our cottage was so well-stocked with absolutely everything, it was just a pleasure being there. We particularly enjoyed the Rummikub and the telescope at night, and we loved the added touch of cassette tapes and music player. Our cottage was so neat and pretty, we thoroughly enjoyed spending time there. The views were simply breathtaking, whether from our back door or patio. This farm is a gem, so glad we stumbled upon it on this site. Will definitely be going back soon."

(visited May 2015)

"Excellent setting and brilliant hospitality. We love the mountains and seclusion, so we will definitely be back! Hopefully the fridge and water pressure will be sorted out by then."

(visited April 2015)

"Beautiful and tranquil setting surrounded with fynbos and visiting birds. The cottage was comfortable for our weekend getaway and our hosts Theresa and Trevor were very welcoming, friendly and helpful with things to do and places to visit. We were lucky that our stay coincided with the monthly Saturday market; a lovely place where locals meet and fresh and delicious local produce are sold. Highly recommend Faraway Fields."

(visited January 2015)

"Fantastic location with beautiful scenery and fynbos. The hosts are super hospital hosts."

(visited October 2014)

"If you want peace, this is your destination. The new owners are doing everything to make the stay comfortable. The combustion stove kept us warm and so too the lovely winter duvets and sheeting on the beds. The cottage (Garden Cottage) we stayed in is nice and spacious, the kitchen has everything you need and the outdoor braai that is under a roof was an added plus on an evening of rain. My only criticism would be the water pressure in the shower and they could invest in a new kettle. It would also help tremendously if there were instructions on how to work the gas oven as not all people are used to using that. We truly enjoyed our stay despite it raining the whole time we were there. The atmosphere is relaxing and Trevor and Theresa are very kind hosts. We wish them well with their new endeavor."

(visited June 2014)

"Wow just what we needed! Colin and his wife were fantastic and really made you feel welcome and gave you your space to enjoy. Stunning views of the mountain and a great place to put your feet up and relax. While we didn't make use of any hiking or much of the surrounding there was a great peace of just "being" and one could spend your time just admiring the view. Well furnished with all the essentials needed for the kitchen too. Will definitely be on our "to see again" list."

(visited September 2013)

"What a wonderful and relaxing stay at Sky Cottage. Getting away for the weekend to such a tranquil place is exactly what one needs from time to time."

(visited April 2013)

"Sky cottage - what a wonderful, peaceful place to relax and recharge. The cottage exceeded our expectations. The games, cd player, and novels were lovely touches to a very well equipped cottage. Sand cottage is also far away enough not to intrude on one's privacy. My only complaint is that there isn't any shelter from the wind which kind of forces you inside once the wind gets going (which was most of the time while we were there). Our dogs tagged along for the long weekend and they loved running around through the fynbos. If you truly want to get away from it all, this is the place to go."

(visited March 2013)

"My husband and I tried the Sky cottage for the first time. It was even more special and romantic than we thought it would be. Don't be put off by the photo - the cottages are far enough away from each other for privacy, especially as the outside living areas do not overlook each other. We went to the local farmers market as usual - they have an interesting selection of good quality goods for sale, and one visit was enough to ensure our regular return!"

(visited November 2012)

"We have been going to Faraway Fields for years because it is that kind of place. The recent changes have only increased our enjoyment."

(visited August 2012)

Faraway Fields

Piketberg, Western Cape

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