Long Thin Farm

Budget Getaways Review

Long Thin Farm overlooks the Goukou River, 13km from Stilbaai. And, judging by the gushing guest feedback, it looks like a Budget gem in the making...

On offer are two self-catering cottages, both above a beautiful stretch of idyllic river as it carves a slow meandering path towards the sea. If you're after a larger abode, then The Farmhouse lies within reach of both cottages.

Kicking off with the cottages, Milkwood Cottage, beautifully restored to expose some of its original stonework. The cottage sleeps two and is made up of a main bedroom with double bed. There is a seprate bathroom and the kitchen, living and dining area is open-plan, fully equipped and fitted with a cast-iron fireplace for winter. Towels and linen are also provided. Outside, there's an enclosed stoep and private garden overlooking the river.

Further along the way, Stone Cottage is like the name suggests: an old stone cottage that's been fully restored to the exacting standards of the modern Budget traveller. It also sleeps four, in two bedrooms, a double and a twin. The bedrooms share a common bathroom with shower. As with Milkwood, towels and linen are provided. Again the lounge etc is open-plan and fully equipped, including cast-iron fireplace. The stoep is covered with a reed ceiling and has a wonderful outlook over the water. Both cottages are comfortable and tastefully decorated in a home-from-home atmosphere.

Moving down to The Farmhouse, gracing the banks of the river and surrounded by olive trees and the farm vineyards, this idyllic country home has three spacious bedrooms (two downstairs and a third loft bedroom). The two downstairs bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms. The kitchen is fully equipped and the open-plan living and dining area are comfortable and cosy. Stack doors open out onto a gorgeous, covered verandah with built-in braai and a pizza oven. Adding to this rather surreal setting, you've also got your own swimming pool. Nice!

There's plenty to do both on and off the farm. The river being a key focus here, explore it in either direction by kayak or paddle board (these are available for your use), there's great fishing from the farm jetty (bring your own rods), mountain biking and hiking options are in no short supply and there's a jungle gym on the farm for the kids. The village of Stilbaai is a short drive away and makes for a great day out exploring the harbour, beaches, restaurants and shops. Both Stone and Milkwood Cottage are situated approximately 325 metres walking distance to the river bed through the farm Olive grove, this giving the cottages the most spectacular views of the meandering Goukou River, but being sest back a little.

With the most amazing setting and stylish accommodation to boot, we'd say Long Thin Farm ticks all the boxes as a winner weekend away destination.