20ha farm with two very privately-appointed cottages

Budget Getaways Review

Journey's Rest is a mellow spot floating in an ocean of open Overberg fields. There are two cottages, Die Hoender Hok (sleeps 3) and Dorothea se Plek (sleeps 4).

True to their names, they were once humble worker abodes set alongside each other and exuding an aura that wouldn't be out of place in a good old spaghetti Western.

The cottages' close proximity is no cause for panic, as they're never let to more than group at a time - which means it will be just you, your mates, the passing horses, sheep and donkeys.

Although simple on the outside, duck into the front door and you're greeted by a funky and very nicely-equipped interior that's clearly been shaped by a loving and creative hand.

We love the black and white wall stencils, we like the fact that the beds come with padded headboards, mosquito nets and nice linen. We appreciate the little extras, the lotions and bath potions, the tea, coffee, milk and home-baked rusks.

Come the blistering summer heat, you and your mates will certainly appreciate the lovely new pool, as you will the amazing night skies, the miles of open countryside (note to self: bring walking shoes and mountain bike), the strategically placed braai plek and the generally chilled-out atmosphere that's conducive to reading, swimming, drunken board games and profound conversation ("Do you think the chops are ready?") around the braai.

Getaway Facts: Journeys Rest Farm
Where22km from Napier (& 160km from Cape Town)
GPS co-ordsS 34°18'42''  E 19°49'18''
Sleeps3,4
Equippedyes
Linenyes
Towelsyes
Fireplaceyes
Braaiyes
Meals availableno
Pet-friendlyno
Rate guideR450 - R550 a night per cottage
Activitiesbirdwatching, farm animals, mountain biking, stargazing, swimming

Guest Comments

"Wonderful place to rest, relax and read, especially on the stoep. It was too cold to swim, but I'm sure come summer it would be nice. Great attention to detail as well." (Eric Prinsloo, visited May 2011)
"This is the sort of establishment you don't want to write a review about because we had such a fantastic time in a marvelous place with wonderful hosts; you want to keep it all to yourself! Attention to detail was superb and lots of space for the kids to play. It was chilly in the evening so the indoor fires were very welcome, making it very snug. It even threatened with rain on our final night so Ryan brought us a Weber if we still wanted a braai under the stoep. Highly recommended holiday home." (Kevin Marston, visited April 2011)
"Fabulous place. Super restful = perfect to de-stress. The stars are so clear it felt like I was back in Hawaii. I loved photographing all the farm animals, and my husband even got up the gumption to take a walk on one of Nicola's horses. I enjoyed braiing and taking morning swims - waking up to wide open crispness. We took a "trip to town" and ate some darn good Pizza and drank the Local Napier Ale. Can't wait to return!" (Karla Cook, visited April 2011)
"We had a lovely time and would go again. It is like waking up on a farm with the sheep on the other side of the fence and yet with all the modern comforts and lovely new bathrooms! They have a beautiful new swimming pool to relax in. It is a great place to get away from the ratrace and just chill." (Brenda Perring, visited March 2011)
"Beautiful location, wonderful hosts, the chalets are tastefully decorated and have everything you need. The pool is divine! A wonderful place to relax and unwind." (Kirsty Perring, visited March 2011)
"This amazing hideaway should be in everyone's little black book of weekend getaways. Set in a relaxing, peaceful countryside setting, but close enough from Cape Town to quickly escape to on any Friday afternoon. The owners, Nicola and Ryan made us feel so welcome, it was if we were visiting friends. We did very little except read our books, went for afternoon strolls to see the horses and pet the new lambs, and settle into a true South African evening "potjie" (a wonderful stew) with copious amounts of good red wine. Highly recommend!" (Susan Crichton-Stuart, visited September 2009)
"Wish the weekend we spent at Journey's Rest was longer! One really feels welcome in the cosy, intimate accommodation with generous 'goodies' in the fridge, including a delicious bottle of red wine and some fine cheeses. Real value for money. Loved the personal touches in the decor, the quaint mural on the wall, the comfy bed, the chilled farm setting, the wonderful heritage visible in the simple architecture and in the nearby cemetery nestled among august fir trees. Above all, the warmth and friendliness of the hosts made us feel so 'at home'. Can't wait to return...." (Clive Brooke, visited March 2010)
"Journey's Rest was a wonderful, peaceful getaway. Rolling landscapes and farm animals make for great views. The beds are so comfortable and the hosts have thought of every little last detail. The coffee, tea, rusks, bottle of local wine and cheese are just the cherry on top of what is already a great getaway." (Gillian Stephens, visited March 2010)
"Lovely cottages with all the comforts of home, very beautifully decorated with a personal touch. The surroundings are beautiful and peaceful - perfect for a relaxing break from city life. The hosts are wonderfully friendly and accommodating. If you are looking for a spot to unwind and de-stress, then Journeys Rest is the place to go." (Tasmin Napoli, visited May 2010)
"Fabulous weekend! Great place, comfy well-appointed cottages, lovely setting, spectacular stargazing and friendly hosts who've thought of every detail. Can't wait to return." (Bettina Moss, visited February 2010)
0