Die Houthuis, Die Wyntenke & A Snoozer's Cottage

Budget Getaways Review

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 getaway in Bonnievale, dating back to 1968 when the Milnerton Jewish Guild sold what was then an old school building to one Laubscher van der Merwe for R400. The kitchen counter set him back a further R10 and the rest of the fittings probably not much more than that. The grand opening took place in 1970, celebrated with potjiekos and a langarm boogie deep into the night. Die Houthuis hasn’t stopped rocking since.

Appointed on a grassy verge of the river, this barn-like timber hall is totally laid-back and great for big sociable groups and extended families. It sleeps 12 dormitory-style, with further accommodation possible by way of a caravan or tent pitched on the green grass outside. Several tables and chairs are arranged down the middle, flanked by a massive fireplace at one end and an open kitchen and wall-to-wall counter at the other.

The kitchen is neat and fully equipped with a stove, fridge and microwave. The low roof theoretically means inferno-like conditions in summer. But hey, a boer maak a plan: at the first sign of a heatwave simply switch on the mist spray system mounted on the roof and presto, time to cool down!

Stepping outside Die Houthuis, you’ll find a braai area, an unsinkable Tupperware canoe or two, tractor tubes, a raft and a foefie slide draped across the river. The latter was erected in 1980 by a Mr O’ Connel and his family – even their 72-year-old gran took a ride to mark the auspicious occasion. There's also a slippy-slide that everyone'll love.

Starting to get a sense of what Die Houthuis is all about? Good. As long as personal space and modcons aren’t high on your agenda, you’ll love it.

While Die Houthuis is the obvious first choice, there's now a second as-relaxed option available, called A Snoozer's Cottage. The latter abode lies 200m away from the river, but comes with its own jetty and picnic and braai area on the water, plus canoes, tractor tubes, and Tarzan swing and a slippy-slide.

Snoozer's offers a casual stay for six adults and/or a child or two, plus there are outside 'Budget Rooms' to handle your party overflow. The decor is a mix-and-match of the old and less old and the architecture pretty basic. The house adjoins your friendly host Ronelle's home, but Ronelle reassures us this ain't an issue.

Even newer in the mix is Die Wyntenke, originally a wine cellar that lays claim to being Bonnievale's first. Built in 1918, the cellar has been lovingly restored and caters for larger groups. Sticking to the farm's rustic vibe and situated about 400m from the river's edge, Die Wyntenke offers a mix of five double and twin rooms, three being ensuite. There's a massive open-plan kitchen and living room, as well as a gesellig outdoor braai spot. Whether you're going en masse or with a smaller group, this is your spot.

Rustic accommodation, the river as the weekend focus, and a home-baked recipe like grandma used to make, you're in for a good time.