Rate Guide
From R850 nightly per timber chalet; R1000 nightly for Apple Tree Cottage.
Quick Facts
E 21°19'44''
Budget Getaways Review
This is one tranquil getaway. A 140ha property, where olives, organic fruit and veg grow amidst bushy hills, green pastures and the idyllic Goukou River, Wild Olive offers two timber chalets with decks and open views across the water, and an historic cottage called Apple Tree (sleeps 4-6) tucked under a 1000-year-old milkwood tree.
Perched above the water, the equipped 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 birds and the obligatory golden sunset. Both cottages sleep four.
Set back from the river, Apple Tree Cottage is an historic two-bedroom dwelling that sleeps four comfortably, with the option of two extra kids beds in the loft area. 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 boating options 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 or on the deck at the Milkwood tree.
Not quite the waterbabe you thought you were? In this case take a hike into the hills behind the farm, where two spring-fed dams lying in the shadow of an ancient bushman cave, and plenty of birdlife along the way, 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.
Additional Info
- Wood supplied for both inside (during cold weather) and for outside braais
- The shop is stocked with freshly picked organic vegetables straight from the permaculture garden as well as homemade preserves, jams, chilli products, rusks, granola and free range eggs from chickens
- You are more than welcome to take out one of the kayaks or canoes
- Pack your own swimming towels as Wild Olive only provide the bath sheets and hand towels
"First time we stayed at Wild Olive Guest Farm, and immediately liked the place & setting. We were intrigued with the organic farm concept and how managing the cottages formed an integral part of a theme we can only describe as serene, peaceful with beautiful nature scenes all around the Sunbird Cottage we stayed in. Thanks John, for the hospitality. Honesty Box quite a revelation, in todays world we live in. Good Stuff. We tried to include two pictures of our experience - hope it goes through."
(visited Jul 2022)
"Excellent time away from city life. Got time to destress and be surrounded by nature and beauty. Just what was needed."
(visited October 2021)
"Beautiful setting. Very child friendly. Loved the animals!"
(visited Aug 2021)
"The best spot on the river! Perfect hosts, great experience. All needs were met and the total stay exceeded our expectations. A must visit to the sunbird cottage at Wild Olive. Close to Stilbaai for a quick trip, but best time spent on the river with paddling or just sundowners overlooking the beautiful, peaceful scenery. A must visit!"
(visited Apr 2021)
"Our visit to Wild Olive Guest Farm was our first "post Lockdown" travel destination and it was well worth the eighteen months of sitting put! The big appeal for me is that this is a permaculture farm and Karen and John live these values down to the last: from the veggie garden layout, to the chicken "tractors" and requesting guests keep their veggie offcuts and coffee grinds for composting. The view from the chalets is just gorgeous and sitting on the deck one can view the regular changing colours and moods of the Goukou river. Our chalet was well equipped and even came with a resident cat, Tommy, the most affectionate and lovely kitty. Thank you for a truly wonderful getaway, one that fed our depleted spirits after a very difficult year."
(visited April 2021)
"We had an awesome visit. It is a beautiful place and we will definitely be going back for a visit."
(visited March 2021)
"Our kids refused to come home, because this place was everything they needed! The view, the setting, everything was perfect. The pictures of this place (we realised on arrival) does not do this place justice. The hosts were lovely, and so accommodating to my million questions about the farm, and the owner even made us freshly made bread the morning after we arrived. This place will be bookmarked as one of my favourites."
(visited October 2020)
"we recently spent 4 days at Wild Olive guest Farm. The setting overlooking the river, the beautiful surroundings are amazing and one cannot help but unwind. The farm shop makes bread on the premises and the home made mueslis and rusks are superb. Well worth the visit and we will certainly go back."
(visited Jan 2019)
"A great venue. Hosts are friendly, but leave you alone, which we love. Great river frontage. Perfect long weekend getaway"
(visited Oct 2018)
"Paradise, that's the perfect word for Wild Olives Guest Farm. We loved everything, from the hospitality of John and Karen, Emile and Linden, not forgetting Milly the cat. We loved the freshly baked sweet potato bread so much that we even bought some to take back home. Thank you so much John for taking us for a tour down the river with your boat and the tour around the farm. Oh and discovering the Bay tree, not Bay leaf tree haha. Thank you for helping us discover our new hobby - canoeing. I can go on and on... We will definitely be back!"
(visited Sep 2018)
"A peaceful farm in the Stillbaai area. Karen, John and Emile were very helpful and friendly. My kids and wife had a blast in the peaceful environment living in the Apple cottage. The farm animals, the organic food being grown, the river just a few 100 meters away was excellent for canoeing and also for relaxing with our feet in the water. Fresh sweet potato bread in the morning along with freshly laid farm eggs was a wonderful first time experience for the family. I highly recommend the place as a getaway destination."
(visited Dec 2017)
"One of the loveliest Budget Getaways we've been to! The farm is incredibly beautiful and peaceful, and the cottage is very well looked after. We'll be back!"
(visited Nov 2017)
"It's was stunning, I fully recommend it to anyone."
(visited Sep 2017)
"This was our second visit to Wild Olive Guest Farm this year - and it was perfect as always. When you get to your cottage a freshly baked bread and milk awaits you - its makes you feel at home! The staff are friendly, Wycliff is on standby to assist with anything you need. We will definitely be back again!"
(visited Jul 2017)
"We spent a long weekend in Apple Cottage. The stoep is the best, best, best watching the donkey and horse in the garden. We could have spent the whole day on that stoep. There was ample braai wood which we also used for the indoor fire which kept us warm the day it rained. The daily bread delivered each morning was a big bonus. Fresh free range eggs absolutely the best. The cottage is equipped with everything you can think of. We even braved the outside shower in the middle of winter! We will definitely be back in summertime so my granddaughter can sleep in the loft, and we can make more use of the canoes. Lovely hosts, thanks Karen and John for a lovely stay. Maybe I should just book so long for September long weekend..."
(visited Jun 2017)
"What an awesome experience. The peace and quiet together with the farming set-up and the beautiful surroundings was just what we needed! The accommodation was good and the very nice bath tub and hot water was a definite plus!"
(visited Sep 2016)
"We had a great stay in Apple Tree Cottage, it was private, clean and quiet. Good value for money and a fine place to rejuvenate the soul. There was no rubbish and it's very safe."
(visited Aug 2016)
"My fiance' and I were lucky enough to win a weekend away to this amazing little gem. When we arrived we couldn't believe our eyes at the magnificent setting before us. Views down the river in both directions from the overlooking deck. The farm has a nice selection of things that you can purchase like rusks, farm eggs, greens, farm bread etc. which we happily made use of. We braai'd both evenings and it was bliss. The little jetty a short stroll from the cottage was also lovely, we made sure we were down there for sun downers. The outdoor shower was also a massive hit, we are not big on bath's so it was quite special to shower out there, probably even more so in summer. The water temperature and pressure were spot on. The cottage is equipped with all that you need for a relaxing weekend away. It was quite chilly being winter and we figured out that we were useless in figuring out the indoor fireplace...massive apologies to the hosts as the place filled with smoke, which we tried to no avail to air out. Fantastic spot and I would recommend it to all."
(visited Jun 2016)
"Hosts Karen and John were very friendly and not 'in your face' hosts. They provided us with the things we requested immediately. We were also given suggestions as to what we could do in the area. The personal touches of decor in the log cabin gives it a 'homely' feeling. The canoe down the river is a must. The jetty was a wonderful surprise. The upper deck is constructed under a canopy of trees. A table with some benches allows one to enjoy some sundowners at the river's edge. Strings of coloured lights are strung between the branches overhead to add to the ambiance late into the evening. Fresh veg is available on the farm as well as their olive oil, homemade jams and lemonade. The venue allows you to have a relaxing holiday."
(visited Jun 2016)
"Loved this place - tranquil, relaxing. And Karen and John have an ethos I can relate to, care for the environment, happy animals, organic food and simplicity."
(visited Mar 2016)
"The winding dusty drive on the approach to Wild Olive Guest Farm keeps you in suspense which turns to awe as you spot the river and gaze into the valley where homes sit in their own oases. Then it's slowly down the rustic farm road with olive trees, chickens & other farm delights on either side. On arrival it feels like you're being reunited with long lost friends as Karen and John come out to greet you and enquire about your journey. You are introduced to the dogs and cat before your hosts ensure you have enough supplies for your first night's dinner, three thick & tender steaks, a garden of organic salads and tomatoes you imagine came from the heart of Tuscany. Karen, John and the dogs stroll with you between fresh sprinklers, alongside a paddock with horse and donkey, as they lead you to your dwelling overlooking the river. And what an awesome dwelling. Our little family of three slotted right into our open plan chalet fitted out with everything you need, no more, no less. Spring water on tap, convenient kitchenette, exceptionally comfortable & firm beds, white fluffy towels and a hot-water outside shower for star gazing in the fresh evening breeze. The jetty and fairy-lit deck area on the river is a perfect spot to cool down in the chilly water on a hot day and enjoy a picnic supper while watching boats and other river users having fun. We highly recommend Wild Olive Guest Farm and hope to return."
(visited December 2014)
"Friendly owners, beautiful setting and a great patio area at Apple Tree Cottage. We had some fresh home-made bread delivered to our door every morning! Organic veggies and great olives and preserves. The river on your doorstep with equipment for a paddle. It would have got 5-stars if not that the mattress was a bit worn out and meant not the most comfortable sleep, but seems the type of owners that would take that to heart!"
(visited December 2014)
Getaway Reply
"Thank you so much for your feedback. We are sorry about the mattress and will certainly look to replace it! Glad you enjoyed our farm as we try to put as much passion into it so that guests can enjoy it as much as we do."
(John Harding)
"A fantastic haven of peace and tranquility. Use of canoes was fantastic, freshly made bread and organic eggs and veggies were a real bonus. We had such fun and felt so welcome. Only gripe (a little teeny weeny one) is that my husband would have liked a TV to watch a late evening rugby."
(visited October 2014)
"A beautiful place to spend time in, wonderful river views from the chalet, very friendly folk, kids loved the farm animals and canoeing. Bedroom and living space is one shared open room, but not really an issue as the outdoors was enjoyed so much! We were all very sad to have to leave."
(visited April 2014)
"An absolutely beautiful spot and a place we will definitely be returning to in the future."
(visited April 2014)
"Wild Olive Guest Farm is a gem nestled on the banks of the Goukou River in the Goukou River Valley. With birds gently waking you in the morning and a deck from which to have your first cup of coffee. A river that beckons for play. A cabin that is prepared for your every need (even before you know it) and hosts that make you feel a part of the family, this is most definitely a place to put on the list for a week away (a weekend will just leave you wanting more!). We returned to the city feeling rested and content - all you could want from a weekend break. Thank you John and Karen for a lovely stay."
(visited November 2013)
"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!"
(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?"
(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."
(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."
(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."
(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."
(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!"
(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."
(visited October 2009)
"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."
(visited October 2008)
"Send our love to the donkey!"
(visited September 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."
(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!"
(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."
(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."
(visited April 2006)
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Where You'll Also Find Us
Arniston (Waenhuiskrans) • Barrydale • Beaufort West • Betty's Bay • Bonnievale • Bot River • Bredasdorp • Caledon • Calitzdorp • Cape Agulhas and Struisbaai • Cape Town area • Ceres • Citrusdal • Clanwilliam & Cederberg • Darling • De Rust • Franschhoek • Gansbaai • George • Grabouw & Elgin Valley • Greyton • Heidelberg • Hermanus • Knysna • Ladismith • Laingsburg • Lamberts Bay • Langebaan • Malgas • Matjiesfontein • McGregor • Montagu • Mossel Bay • Napier • Oudtshoorn • Paarl • Paternoster • Plettenberg Bay • Porterville • Prince Albert • Pringle Bay • Pringle Bay, Betty's Bay and Kleinmond • Riebeek West and Riebeek-Kasteel • Riversdale • Riviersonderend • Robertson • St Helena Bay • Stanford • Stilbaai • Strand, Gordon's Bay and Somerset West • Swellendam • Tulbagh • Uniondale • Velddrif • Vermaaklikheid • Wellington • Wilderness • Witsand • Worcester & Hex Valley • Yzerfontein • Baviaanskloof • Cape St Francis • Cape St Francis & St Francis Bay • East London • Graaff-Reinet • Hogsback • Jeffreys Bay • Makhanda (Grahamstown) • Middelburg • Nieu-Bethesda • Rhodes • Sutherland