Rate Guide
From R600 to R1400, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Quick Facts
E 20°20'26''
Budget Getaways Review
Pastoral bliss and a skyline dominated by the jagged peaks of the Langeberg are surely sufficient reason for a stop-over near (12km) Swellendam?
Be it a midway break between mother city and Garden Route, or simply an excuse to get into the countryside, Die Hoenderhok, Plaashuisie and the recently added Buitekamer offer plenty in the way of rustic-rural - known far and wide as an effective cure for the early symptoms of yuppie flu.
Both built in the late 1800’s and recently restored by owner and host Landi Steyn, the cottages and 25ha farmland surrounding them are summed up quite nicely by a recent guest: “Rustic, quiet, peaceful and right at the foot of the Langeberg, this is a place where you come to relax.”
The larger of the three and perfect for a small family, Die Hoenderhok is a character-packed abode resembling a child's rendering: crooked walls, high pitched roof, a window on either side of the front door. Inside, the old-world charm carries through, with exposed log beams, old sash windows, screed floors and a compact and cosy ambiance.
You’ll find a living room with fireplace and flatscreen with DSTV (bring own card as the channels are limited). Leading off to the side is the open-plan kitchen with small dining nook attached. The bathroom (with shower and loo) is shared. Up a rustic stairway brings you to a cosy loft, with two bedrooms - a twin and double. Your kids will love it.
For couples or honeymooners, Plaashuisie or Die Buitekamer are the units to aim for. Kicking off with Plaashuisie, again, oodles of character and a mix of antique and modern are the order of the day. The setting in private and circled by gorgeous mountain views. Plaashuisie has one bedroom, a bathroom with shower, open-plan kitchen and a living room with fireplace and TV.
Nearby, but with plenty in the way of privacy is Die Buitekamer. This charming little open-plan cottage has a queen bed, with additional sleeper couch for the laatjie. Fully equipped, the cottage has a indoor fireplace, ensuite bathroom with shower and a cozy stoep with great views, a braai and outdoor seating.
In summer you'll find yourself outdoors most of the time, braaing in front of your cottage, or heading down to the Leeurivier itself (about 300m away) to enjoy a spot of birdwatching and possibly a dip.
With the buzzing metropolis of Swellendam a mere 12 kays down the road, oodles of country character and grand vistas over the hilly horizon, you’ll feel anything but cooped up at Die Hoenderhok and Plaashuisie.
"Andries and Landie are warm and welcoming hosts. It was our first time at Plaashuisie and we loved it."
(visited Jun 2023)
"The view was out of this world! Our host was a fantastic host. Kept in touch with us, recommended things to do and places to see. Accommodation was just what we wanted and as advertised. Loved the farm life and interaction with the farm animals close by."
(visited October 2021)
"This was really an awesome experience for myself and my wife. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the Plaashuisie. The kindness and hospitality of our hostess is really remarkable leaving you with a warm feeling in your heart."
(visited Nov 2018)
"Our stay at Die Hoenderhok was truly amazing. We thoroughly enjoyed the tranquility and the peaceful atmosphere on the farm and we absolutely loved the breathtaking mountains, the farm animals and of course the beautiful birdlife. It was a pleasure to stay in Die Hoenderhok with it�s lovely and very special rustic feel. Although biting temperatures reigned outside in the evenings, we could enjoy the cosy warmth of the fireplace inside. Die Hoenderhok really had everything we needed to enjoy our stay and we say thank you to our friendly and lovely host, Landi Steyn who really made us feel welcome."
(visited Jul 2018)
"I was looking for a half way point as my friend was coming from Cape Town and we wanted to stay on a farm away from the crowds. When we arrived at Die Hoenderhok we were pleasantly surprised at its charm and beautiful setting. The cottage has a beautiful rustic look but we lacked nothing to make our stay a wonderful experience. Comfortable beds, lovely to wake up to cows mooing and birds singing! An indoor fireplace/braai and and an outside braai and picnic table with a beautiful view of the mountains. Our hosts Andries and Landi were delightful and very helpful telling us about the surrounding area and restaurants. That was the other fantastic plus about this getaway - it was close to Swellendam Main Street with restaurants, shops, etc and two nature reserves were close by to ride our bicycles in. I can't wait to go again!"
(visited Oct 2017)
"Our weekend was absolutely amazing. We felt spoilt, spoilt, spoilt to the max. Landi and Andre were wonderful and friendly hosts. We went there with the intention of relaxing, enjoying peace and quietness and absorbing the beauty of the environment with no distractions from any family and friends in a cozy setting - and it was way beyond what we expected. We unlocked the front door of Plaashuisie and our eyes just lit up with excitement and we couldn't stop smiling. As we opened the door the whole house was so inviting - It's as if the house said "Hello, welcome - please come inside and relax". We were barely there two minutes when Landi and Andre came down to greet us and introduce themselves. She constantly kept in contact with me and provided very clear directions on how to get there and where I could get groceries etc. Watching and listening to the Boran Cattle mooing in the valley was so relaxing. and then to find a book about the Boran Cattle and being able to read about the history - so enjoyable. The price is fantastic really. I have shared our experiences with so many people already. Wish we had spent more time at the house though as we did quite a bit of tourist things over the weekend in Swellendam. It was pouring with rain on Friday but once we got the fire going in the indoor fire place it was heaven. I can't put all our experiences in words - so all I want to say is spoilt, spoilt, spoilt! We felt refreshed going back home. We will certainly recommend die Hoenderhok en Plaashuisie to anyone and are looking forward to staying there again."
(visited Aug 2017)
"Such a quaint, cosy place to enjoy a relaxed weekend in the countryside! Well equipped, lots of attention to detail, a wonderful host and the farm atmosphere made for a weekend to be remembered."
(visited Jul 2017)
"This was an amazing, peaceful weekend away from the busy city life! My boyfriend and I stayed in Die Plaashuisie. It was so beautiful and quaint, fitted with everything one needs. With the tranquil surroundings and overlooking the farm land with baron cattle grazing right in front of you. We will definitely be returning soon!"
(visited Jul 2017)
"Our hostess was friendly, courteous and very accommodating. Plaashuisie was clean, well presented, decorated and utterly charming. Spending time on a cattle farm made for a relaxing and very peaceful weekend away. Having a big fireplace on those cold nights was lovely. Would happily recommend it to friends wanting a restful getaway."
(visited Jun 2017)
"Plaashuisie is the perfect getaway for a restful weekend - the setting is breathtaking and secluded. It is a bonus that my cellphone struggled with reception on the farm, adding to the peace and quiet offered by the surrounding rolling hills and mountains. The house is wonderfully renovated and equipped with everything you may need. The owners are friendly and offer typical warm Afrikaans hospitality! Due to the drought the river is dried up, but we drove to a nearby spot next to the Breede River in search of some much needed relief from the heat. I look forward to returning to what has certainly become my new favourite getaway spot!"
(visited Apr 2017)
"Lovely, tranquil and peaceful but still near a main town if you need anything but far enough to be peacefully unaware. There are some lovely hikes and reserves nearby and lovely farm stalls."
(visited Mar 2017)
"We stayed at Plaashuisie and it was great! Private, quiet, very relaxing, and with fantastic views. Only a 6 minute drive to Swellendam, so we had the feeling of being way out in the country yet close to shops etc. It was a true farm stay with tractors up and down and herds of beautiful Boran cattle and their calves grazing almost on the doorstep. Plaashuisie is authentically rustic yet very clean and with some modern touches for convenience. It is beautifully decorated as well. The constant moo-ing of the cattle was the cherry on top."
(visited Mar 2017)
"Lovely place; a romantic little hideaway with beautiful surrounds. Landi the hostess is amazing."
(visited November 2016)
"The love and creativity is extraordinary. If you want to experience the old-fashioned South African lifestyle and warm hospitality, a calm and serene environment... then this is the place for you. We will be back."
(visited Sep 2016)
"We had a great time in this facility and were able to visit many great places like The "Faery Sanctuary" , The old Dutch Reformed Church in Swellendam, The Bontebok Park, Southern most tip of Africa, Waenhuis Krans and Arniston. We loved the lovely sunsets and the peace and tranquility of the farm!"
(visited Jul 2016)
"We booked in for only one night not realizing that it would not at all be enough. All the fresh country air together with the cosy fire soon put us to bed without even braaing as planned but luckily thanks to Landi & Andries' warm hospitality we were able to enjoy our stay a few hours longer. What an awesome little spot, will definitely be back soon!"
(visited Jul 2016)
"Amazing combination of rustic and upmarket. Perfect setting to get away from the rush for a few days."
(visited Jun 2016)
"We loved our stay! The cottage is just so cute and beautifully decorated. We loved the setting with the fire pit and the cows grazing. We would recommend to anyone in the area. It was also very neat and clean. Stunning."
(visited Apr 2016)
"Very tidy and clean."
(visited Mar 2016)
"More than we expected!"
(visited January 2016)
"We went there in the winter months, and it made everything seem so lush and beautiful. Loved all the little touches that were thought of. Cosy little place, perfect for a lovers getaway. Will definitely be heading back there."
(visited Jun 2015)
"We've used Budget Getaways a number of times but this accommodation completely exceeded all expectations! Set on a small farm 10-minutes from Swellendam we stayed in Plaashuisie, the smaller of the two units available surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. Landi has designed and created a comfortable and cosy cottage equipped with everything you need. The small touches throughout from the inventive lighting feature in the bedroom to the cobbled stone floor in the bathroom with a big shower (plenty of hot water!) showed just how much she has considered the best way to make it a memorable stay for guests. Photos don't do it justice. It's close enough to explore Swellendam but remote enough to feel closed off from the distractions of modern life. Make the most of the huge fireplace/braai and forget about everything for a day or two."
(visited May 2015)
"From the decor to scenery up until the hospitality everything was absolutely delightful. loved the small touches to the place made it feel like a home away from home."
(visited March 2015)
"A beautifully renovated cottage with special attention to detail. Peaceful and quiet. Friendly reception and great value for money. I can recommend it. Baie dankie vir n lekker naweek."
(visited February 2015)
"Lovely mid-week getaway. Beautiful location and perfect accommodation in the lovely Plaashuisie. The perfect place to unwind, relax and forget city life."
(visited January 2015)
"Superb, an absolute delight, poured with rain but the indoor braai was perfect."
(visited January 2015)
"We stayed in Plaashuisie for one night. My Boyfriend I both loved the cottage, from the beautiful setting, the views, the interior decor and seeing the cows grazing a few meters away. It was overcast and rainy, so it made that beautiful valley seem even more magical. It was the perfect little place to cuddle up in front of the fire place/braai. I would defiantly recommend."
(visited January 2015)
"What a beautiful place to experience peace. My sister and I stayed in the "Plaashuisie" and I would love to just stay there forever. The house was so neat, comfortable with cosy corners everywhere, like the breakfast nook where we sat almost the whole day. The shower was spectacular, the rusks left for us for our morning coffee a very nice and personal touch, and the farm-view from every window to die for. We did not get to meet the owners, but through our communication with them, we already felt welcome and safe. We will definitely be back in summer to have a braai outside."
(visited January 2015)
"The stay at Hoenderhok was certainly a wonderful experience. My family and I enjoyed our stay very much. Compliments on an excellent self-catering unit. I must say that it felt like heaven on earth. The tranquility and nature. Once again, thank you for making our weekend a memorable one. Another good memory for our holiday scrapbook. We will be back."
(visited December 2014)
"Baie oulike plekkie vol verrassings! Baie lekker gebly wens net dit was langer."
(visited December 2014)
"We stayed in the Plaashuisie. The setting is amazing. It is on a farm outside of town. Looks over a field of cows. So peaceful and relaxing. I highly recommend this cottage!"
(visited November 2014)
"A treasure."
(visited November 2014)
"If you need peace, this is the place. The Plaashuis was clean, with everything you need. We loved the indoor fireplace, we sat in front of the fire till very late. It's a photographer heaven, the mountains and we have spot a lot of birds. The only regret was that one night was to short."
(visited November 2014)
"Awesome value for money. Very peaceful and relaxing. Will be back!"
(visited October 2014)
"Wow, what a lovely surprise. We stayed in the small cottage and arrived to rain and cold, but were soon warmed up when we were welcomed into this delightful cottage. Landi and her husband really have made this cottage a home away from home, and we are ever so glad we stayed. Pity it was such a short stay of one night."
(visited September 2014)
"Really enjoyed staying at the Plaashuisie, the cottage was even better than I expected after looking through the photos on this website. It is very clean, cosy, comfortable, private and quiet. The cottage overlooks a big field with cows who were fun to watch, and there are beautiful big mountains around. You really feel you are in nature, yet the town of Swellendam is very close by, easy to make a quick drive if you need something, or if you don't feel like cooking and want to eat out. It is a lovely town, although we spend more time in the cottage and in the nearby nature reserves."
(visited August 2014)
"We had wonderful hospitality from Landi and Andries, and we were just in love with this quaint little cottage. We enjoyed the quietness of the farm, and felt absolutely recharged. Hope we could have stayed longer. Absolute value for money. Will surely visit again."
(visited April 2014)
"Beautiful cottage (Hoenderhok) with all the amenities surrounded by farm life and mountains. We want to return again when we have more time."
(visited April 2014)
"Was very good."
(visited April 2014)
"We had the most delightful stay in the beautifully decorated "Hoenderhok". It was so much more than expected. We enjoyed a two-night stay on the farm and loved the stunning mountain views and the farm life on the doorstep. This is a must visit for every city-dweller."
(visited January 2014)
"Die Hoenderhok is a fun cottage, and we enjoyed our two night midweek stay. We look forward to returning to try out The Plaashuisie soon."
(visited August 2013)
"Spent a totally relaxing weekend. Facilities are good and will definitely make a return. You have spent time and effort on making it comfortable and it shows."
(visited June 2013)
"Spent a lovely weekend at 'Die Hoenderhok' including waking up to the first snowfall of winter covering the tops of the mountains! The cottage is rustic, cosy and comfortable and suited out needs perfectly. If you looking for peace and quiet in a lovely farm setting, gorgeous mountain peaks, clear starry nights then this place is for you."
(visited May 2013)
"'n Unieke kreatiewe (skoon) hoenderhok! Die kort verblyf was wonderlik; die trekker wat ploeg, tarentale wat skoorvoet in die land, die beeste se lang skinderstories praat en saans die paddas wat kwaak met die sterre kyk buite (die kaggelvuurtjie wat vonkies lek binne) is musiek vir 'n dorpskind. Ek sal weer wil gaan kuier daar! Dankie."
(visited May 2013)
"We were accommodated on short notice. Perfect for couples. We really had a wonderful stay."
(visited May 2013)
"My pregnant wife and I spent a wonderful 4 nights at Die Hoenderhok. It was delightful, comfortable, cozy and very peaceful. I must add that this little gem is not for everyone's liking, if you are expecting a five-star city hotel and to be waited on hand and foot, then go to a five-star establishment. If you absolutely love the rustic getaways, in the peaceful bliss of a natural farm setting, completely undisturbed, then Die Hoenderhok is for you. We would suggest it for couples, young families and the soloist. We will definitely return ... when little Hannah is born."
(visited April 2013)
"Rustic, quiet, peaceful farm stay at the feet of the Langeberg. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the town or city this is the place where you can come to relax, and if you really, really need to go to town the beautiful historic town of Swellendam is only 12km away."
(visited January 2013)
"I would give them between three and four overall rating. Would really recommend if you just need to relax. Owners very helpful and friendly."
(visited December 2012)
"What a wonderful weekend my girls and I had. Yolandi made sure we were never without wood and we kept the fire going the whole weekend. The most awesome setting in the mountains and the cottage made us feel right at home. Nothing beats getting there after a long drive and having fresh milk in the fridge for a great cup of hot chocolate! We were also invited for a picnic on the river bank by the family and had a wonderful time. Thanks Yolandi and family. We will be returning time and time again for a piece of heaven!"
(visited May 2012)
Koloniesbos Mountain Cabin
Swellendam, Western Cape
Koloniesbos Mountain Cabin is the epitome of your classic hikers hut. Originally the first hut of the Swellendam five day hiking trail, This little wooden abode has been ...
Rate Guide
R1500 nightly for the cabin
Dolittle Cottages
Swellendam, Western Cape
There’s always a good reason to drop into Swellendam. Whether you’re passing through on a road trip, spending some time exploring the magnificent hiking and M...
Rate Guide
From R900 to R2700 nightly for a cottage, depending on unit, guests and time of year.
Die Houthuis, Die Wyntenke & A Snoozer's Cottage
Bonnievale, Western Cape
As far as rustic weekend getaways go, Die Houthuis is the last of a dying breed – a place where not even Triple-X Gel can keep the hair up. It’s the oldest ge...
Rate Guide
From R500 to R2650, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Taaibos Views
Bonnievale, Western Cape
The setting: A working farm gazing out across a rural landscape. The accommodation: A simple and spacious farmhouse set amongst plum orchards and vineyards with vistas se...
Rate Guide
R2400 nightly for the house
!Xairu Tented Bush Retreat
Swellendam, Western Cape
Situated on a small, environmentally conscious farm, 28km from Swellendam, !Xairu Tented Bush Retreat is a rustic bush camp with two equipped, permanent tents, or an addi...
Rate Guide
From R695 - R895.00 per equipped tent
Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
Swellendam, Western Cape
Somerset Gift Getaway Farm nestles in a beautiful valley bordering the foothills of the majestic Langeberg Mountains, just 16km from Swellendam. Combining an idyllic an...
Rate Guide
From R1900 to R3400, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Bibi's Joy
Swellendam, Western Cape
Let’s set the tone with a recent guest comment: “If you need peace and tranquility away from the city bustle, this is the place to go. Rustic, comfortable, se...
Rate Guide
From R300 to R1500, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Mountain View Eco Lodge
Montagu, Western Cape
Whether it's a blast down the R62 with the boys and the bikes, or an easy-going stayover with a group of friends, Mountain View Lodge just outside of Montagu ticks a conv...
Rate Guide
From R900 to R1000, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Breede Escape
Bonnievale, Western Cape
This excellent group getaway, comprising of two separate river camps. HutCAMP has mini reed-and-thatch huts and Campground is an open area for campers. Each has its ...
Rate Guide
HutCAMP: R2000 - R4000 nightly per group. Campground: R1000 -R3500 nightly per group. Rates vary according to group size. Minimum two night stay on weekends. Weekday discounts of 50% apply.
Breede Bush Camp
Swellendam, Western Cape
A private and exclusively booked campsite and central living area on the banks of the Breede River, 34 km south of Swellendam, Breede Bush Camp is certainly a good bet fo...
Rate Guide
From R350pp for first four guests. Minimum rate for 4 guests.
Leopard Trail Guestfarm
Bonnievale, Western Cape
Perched high on the Langeberg slopes, Leopard Trail Guestfarm offers an action-packed nature weekend. Walks, hikes, kloofing, mountain biking and three 4x4 trails, six ...
Rate Guide
R380pp for the farmhouse (R200pp kids under 12); R350pp for the open barn-style cottage (R200pp kids under 12); R150pp for the bush camp (R80pp kids under 12)
Anchorage Inn
Montagu, Western Cape
Tucked away off a quiet street in Montagu village, this character-packed, thatched getaway is the idyllic bolthole to head back to after a long day out exploring the gorg...
Rate Guide
From R595 per person nightly for a cottage.
Blue Gum Cottages
Bonnievale, Western Cape
About 5km out of Bonnievale, Blue Gum Cottages is a laid-back and family-friendly spot with two cottages spread along the banks of the Breede. First off is Blue G...
Rate Guide
From R950 nightly for Blue Gum, From R850 nightly for Die Stal
Running Stream
Montagu, Western Cape
There’s no doubt that you’ll be “wowed” by the setting of this little farm cottage. The Langeberg Mountains cut the horizon, the vineyards and fyn...
Rate Guide
From R1683 to R1980, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Bordeaux River Cottages
Bonnievale, Western Cape
Surrounded by orchards and vineyards in the broad Breede River valley, and eight kilometers from Bonnievale, lies the farm Bordeaux and its three rustic timber cottages. ...
Rate Guide
R820/night for the first 2 people and R100/pp thereafter. Peak season rate is R1300/night for the cottage.
Aloe Canyons Guestfarm and Wildlife
Swellendam, Western Cape
Off the beaten track and tucked along the banks of a river - with an outlook over rugged hills - Aloe Canyons Guest Farm and Wildlife is nature lovers territory. The riv...
Rate Guide
From R990 to R1850, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Hermitage Huisies
Swellendam, Western Cape
A picturesque smallholding just outside Swellendam, Hermitage Huisies has a certain quality that many guests find irresistible. There are four cottages, the original Ro...
Rate Guide
From R1000 to R1750, depending on unit, guests and time of year
360on62 Mountain View Farm Cottages
Montagu, Western Cape
360 on 62 offers self-catering farm cottage accommodation with 360-degree mountain views on a working farm just 7 kilometers outside the charming village of Montagu, in t...
Rate Guide
From R1450 to R1850 per unit, depending on unit and time of year
The Gaia Sanctuary
Swellendam, Western Cape
The Gaia Sanctuary invites guests to visit our little slice of sanctuary, our very own heaven on earth, for a completely back-to-mother-earth experience, to leave your he...
Rate Guide
From R180 to R1800, depending on unit, guests and time of year
KamBati River Resort
Swellendam, Western Cape
Kam’Bati, a 5km drive off the N2 and 25km from Swellendam, is aimed at nature lovers and families out for a relaxed weekend of caravaning and camping alon...
Rate Guide
From R2950, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Mountain View Swellendam
Swellendam, Western Cape
Comprising The Cottage (sleeps 4) and The Lodge (4 units, sleeps 10 in total), and set in fynbos gardens overlooking the historic town of Swellendam against the backdrop ...
Rate Guide
From R747.5 to R1787.5, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Riverside Country House
Swellendam, Western Cape
Riverside Country House is a tastefully furnished self-catering house set at the foot of the majestic Langeberg Mountain alongside the Koornlands river. The downstairs ar...
Rate Guide
From R2800, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Glen Eden Farm
Montagu, Western Cape
Glen Eden Farm is 50 hectares of countryside, just 14km outside of Montagu. There are 5 cottages and 2 glamping sites (glamourous camping). All cottages have privat...
Rate Guide
From R1200 to R3500, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Smitten Guest Cottages
Bonnievale, Western Cape
This cottage accommodates 4 people in 2 bedrooms and offers an indoor fireplace, wood-fired Hot Tub, built-in Braai on the verandah as well as a firepit. The Glamping Ten...
Rate Guide
From R1318 to R2083, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Bontebokskloof Manor
Swellendam, Western Cape
Adjacent to the N2, Bontebokskloof Manor is located on a working farm in the countryside, a stone’s throw away from picturesque Swellendam, with a clear view of the...
Rate Guide
From R3300 to R4300, depending on unit, guests and time of year
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 • Prince Albert • 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 • Velddrif • Vermaaklikheid • Wilderness • Witsand • Worcester & Hex Valley • Yzerfontein • Baviaanskloof • Cape St Francis & St Francis Bay • East London • Graaff-Reinet • Hogsback • Jeffreys Bay • Makhanda (Grahamstown) • Middelburg • Nieu-Bethesda • Rhodes • Sutherland