Organic farm along the Goukou River with four cottages

Budget Getaways Review

This is one tranquil getaway. A 140ha property encompassing bushy hills, green pasture and idyllic river frontage, Wild Olive offers two cute timber chalets with decks and open views across the water, an historic cottage called Apple Tree (sleeps 4) tucked under a 1000-year-old milkwood tree, and a bigger house set a little back that can accommodate up to six guests.

Perched above the water, the chalets (called Sunbird and Hoopoe) are ever so cosy and contain just about every home comfort. Each unit has its own fireplace for those chilly winter nights, as well as an outdoor braai area. French doors open to a covered deck with gorgeous view over the lazy river, a myriad of birds and the obligatory golden sunset. Both cottages sleep four. 

Better suited to larger groups of six guests, Lavender Cottage is set about 300m up from the river and comprises a comfortable home-from-home with a large living area (with fireplace) and a huge veranda, where you can enjoy the pretty surrounds and lilting tunes of a diverse birdlife. 

Also set back from the river, Apple Tree Cottage is an historic two-bedroom dwelling that sleeps four comfortably. Again, nature is immediate and the birdlife superb, with over 250 species recorded. Among the highlights are a hot outdoor shower under milkwood, as well as indoor fireplace.

Whatever your base, a few meters down the hill and you are at the water, where swimming, fishing and a canoe await. (Skiing is also popular on the Goukou River so you can expect the occasional powerboat to come your way, especially in season.) Alternatively, just chill on the jetty and soak up the ambience. 

Not quite the waterbabe you thought you were? In this case take a hike into the hills behind the farm - two spring-fed dams overlooked by an ancient bushman cave, and plenty birdlife on route are your reward. 

Back at the ranch,  seasonal vegetables and salads are available on request from Wild Olive's organic garden, as are fresh farm eggs. There's even the option of a loaf of real macoy farm bread delivered to your door in the morning.

A wholesome and soothing spot for families and romantic couples, young and old alike.

Getaway Facts: Wild Olive Guest Farm
Where11km from Stilbaai
GPS co-ordsS 34°18'33''  E 21°19'44''
Sleeps4,4,4,6
Equippedyes
Linenyes
Towelsyes
Fireplaceyes
Braaiyes
Meals availableno
Pet-friendlyno
Rate guidefrom R600.00 nightly per timber chalet; R800.00 for Apple Tree Cottage and R900.00 for Lavender Cottage
Activitiesbirdwatching, boating, canoeing, farm animals, fishing, mountain biking, restaurants, swimming, walking, whale watching

Guest Comments

"We fell in love with the beauty, hospitality and quiet tranquillity. As part of our honeymoon, the three day stay was perfect in every way. We so enjoyed our Sunbird cabin which was equipped with all the necessary luxuries and with its perfect deck overlooking the river, the ideal stoep to drink in the view and relax with book and drink. We hope to be back for many, many, many more visits to swim in the river and revive the soul! Thank you guys!" (Helen Smit, visited January 2013)
"We have been to Wild Olive twice now and love it! I love learning more about growing my own veg and aspire to have a garden as fruitful as Wild Olive! The whole family loves it - we spend most of the day on the river. The birds are amazing... Did I say I love this place?" (Debbie Gray, visited September 2012)
"I chose this place randomly after searching for a place to stay. What a great choice. The kids and I loved swimming and paddle skiing. The wife loved the front porch to read. Inside the cottage, we had room to play board games and sleep us four comfortably. The kids loved the bunk bed. We braai'ed most days, but there was a stove to make bacon and eggs in the morning. All the ammenities were provided, so we only needed to bring our food, clothes and swimming towels. We will love to come back again." (Gareth Qually, visited April 2012)
"What a great place, we truly enjoyed our Easter weekend here, our boy loved the animals on the farm. It really lets you get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. This is a must for any young working couple." (Wessel Wiese, visited April 2012)
"We are soooo very pleased with our 'home away from home'. Four visits already and we will always return. This is THE BEST place to have ULTIMATE quality time with your family. Every visit is filled with memories that we as a family will cherish for the rest of our lives. The ONLY way to share our experiences is to book a visit, SOONER rather than later." (Denver du Plessis, visited June 2011)
"My family and I celebrated my birthday at Wild Olive. The best birthday experience EVER. Our hosts made us feel so welcome. That was our 4th visit back to the farm. It has really become our home away from home. It is the best place to really spend fantastic time with your family. I cannot wait to go back again. The only way to experience the true beauty of Wild Olive Farm is to book a stay SOONER rather than later." (Denver du Plessis, visited June 2011)
"Such an amazing weekend away. Unbelievable setting, such friendly staff. It was really great learning more about sustainable living and permaculture. I would recommend this place to everyone. The friendly chicken who loves being petted is brilliant! They have loads of different accomodation choices, so suitable for anyone's preferences. GO NOW!" (Francis Moult, visited December 2010)
"We are so disappointed that we did not stay longer. We would have liked to have learnt more about farming in an eco-friendly way, but our time there was just too short. Would definitely recommend it to anyone." (Tania Koegelenberg, visited October 2009)
"Send our love to the donkey!" (Anna-Mat Le Roux, visited September 2008)
"After a long year, we just wanted somewhere quiet and peaceful to rest. Hazel and Chris (and of course all the animals) provided the best getaway in years. What a little jewel they have. When you read the visitors book, that’s when you realise how special this place really is. You can see the same names coming back year after year, and I’m happy to say we will be joining this group." (Dale Lees, visited October 2008)
"Hosts made us feel so welcome. Picked salad straight from Hazel's veg garden. Delicious! Great view and so quiet at night. Great getaway from city's buzz for young and old." (Florette van Rooyen, visited September 2008)
"We spent a couple of days end March 2008. Heavenly setting. Hazel and Claire were fabulously friendly. Accommodation was lovely with lots of small luxury touches. Cannot wait to visit again!" (Liza Dunbar, visited March 2008)
"It was the best evening of our lives - besides the fact that ESKOM left us in darkness, we had a blast spending the evening in one of the most magical settings anyone could have wished for. Thanks to our wonderful hosts for providing us with such an incredible breakfast the following morning, we would not have made it home without it." (Lizl Martini, visited September 2007)
"Friendly personalised service by great hosts and a great view of the river. Unfortunately the vast numbers of flies proved to be particularly bothersome." (Carol Hewitson, visited April 2006)
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