The Place

Budget Getaways Review

One hundred hectares of wide open Karoo vlakte, huge skies, the gentle flow of the Touw River, two finely-tuned accommodation options, your gregarious host Lizelle... The Place ticks a whole lot of getaway boxes that will appeal to a broad range of personality types: outdoor junkies, organic revolutionaries, artists, writers, musicians, angst-ridden philosophers, and big lovers... of nature. 

Accommodation comes in two forms: the creatively-appointed The Studio, and the beautifully appointed (with much love and attention to detail, might we add) Red Rock Cottage.

Let’s kick off with The Studio. Tucked away at the end of a 2km dirt road, near the main homestead, this stylish garret combines a mix of raw cement walls, high reed and beam ceilings, screed floors, the odd contemporary décor and earthy tones.

The Studio sleeps six in total, with a semi open-plan double bedroom, and additional sofa suitable for a child. The ensuite bathroom has a shower and loo. The deck lounge, a spacious living area is also equipped with two additional day beds, while the kitchen and dining area have an open fireplace and an additional day bed for the kids. There is the added luxury of WiFi, a bluetooth speaker as well a delicious health brekkie available upon request. 

Outside you’ve got three large shaded areas with a braai (firewood available) and superb views towards the koppies and river, with the Langeberg, Touwsberg, Swartberg and Rooiberg straddling the horizon - don't forget to pack the sundowner kit 'cause the sunsets are something to behold - particulary from the newly added private plunge pool or the two-person hammock in the shady courtyard garden.

On we move to Red Rock Cottage, this stylish abode is tucked into a secluded copse of acacia trees below a red sandstone outcrop. Apart from its sheltered setting, Red Rock Cottage offers complete tranquility, koppie views and sunsets second to none. As with The Studio, the cottage is stylishly furnished with plenty of glass to create a light and spacious vibe.

Ideal for families or two couples, you’ve got two double bedrooms with large ensuite bathrooms. Each bedroom also has it’s own entrance, while one of these sports a private patio and a large fireplace. There’s a sofa bench in each that's suitable for a child.

The living area is open-plan, with an equipped kitchen and dining area. Adding to the appeal is a cosy fireplace fronted by comfy sofa benches. Double doors open onto the outside stoep, where you’ve got a table and braai, not to mention those veld and koppie views. There is also a private plunge pool, a great escape in the summer heat.

The Place offers plenty of space for a bracing walk into the valleys and kloofs (take note of the succulents and fossil formations), or a refreshing dip in the rock pools along the river (Only flows after good rains). Picnics and sundowners on the surrounding koppies, as well as miles of farm tracks for mountain biking can be added to the to-do list. In summer, plan your day accordingly to escape the murderous heat.

Add to all this the option of ordering a loaf (or two!) of their famous rosemary & olive bread - a sure winner!

With simple aesthetics, rich Karoo soul and inspiring hosts to keep you company, if The Place doesn't put you back in touch with yourself, chances are little will.