Rhodene Farm Cottages

A laid-back fruit farm below the jagged Skurweberg mountains outside Ceres, Rhodene offers a nine-pack of accommodation, among it a fullblown farmhouse and three cottages, two of these tucked alongside the farm’s packshed and offering views of the Skurweberg, the other overlooking the valley and Matroosberg mountains.

First off are Fish Eagle and Kingfisher, two-bedroom units that have been recently renovated. The main bedroom has a king-size bed and full en-suite bathroom, while the second comes with two single beds and a separate bathroom with shower. A spacious living area, underfloor heating throughout, own private stoeps and outside braai are among the attractions. 

Also recently added is a spacious four-bedroomed farmhouse tucked up on its own against the Witzenberg Mountain. The house sleeps up to eight and sports views, own swimming pool and a lush garden. Indoors you'll find a modern kitchen, spacious living area, open fireplace and DSTV. The outside entertainment area looks onto the garden and pool. Good option for a group or two families.

And then there are four more basic semi-detached units (Voelvlei 1-4) - comprising ex-farm buildings that sleep two apiece on single beds. While nothing to write home about in terms of architectural style and decor they are decently equipped (including underfloor heating!), and each has its own stoep and braai area.

A notch or two up and with more character, Guinea Fowl is a neat one-bedroom unit with underfloor heating, a fireplace in the open-plan kitchen/living area (equipped with sleeper-couch), terracotta tiled floors, telly, African theme duvets and curtains, crisp towels and a gold-clawed Victorian bath. From the cottage it's a hop and skip into the orchards and mountain beyond.

Heron House is next door to and similar to Guinea Fowl. What's more it's wheelchair-friendly.

Standing more on its own, Peacock’s Perch is a large unit with a raised patio overlooking the apple orchard and golden valley. Tiled from one end to the other, the home comforts include a fireplace in the living room oil heater and a built-braai on the patio.

Linen and towels are standard in all five cottages and the Voëlvlei units, as are microwave, stove with oven, fridge with freezer, etc. 

All nine units, including the farmhouse have the added bonus of a DSTV guesthouse bouquet with selected channels, including sport, news & movie channels.

For a friendly and good-value base to Ceres and the surrounding region Rhodene is well appointed. Besides plenty beds the farm has a fair amount to offer, including a swimming pool, bass fishing and a path for hiking and mountain biking in the Skurweberg.