Cradled in the fertile Schoemanshoek Valley of South Africa’s Little Karoo, a stately Cape Dutch style homestead awaits to introduce you to the beauty and charm that is Altes Landhaus. The homestead was built a hundred years ago, and served as rectory to the local church from the 1950’s. Heinz and Helen Meyer bought the farm in 1994, endeavouring to restore its historic splendour. Antique furnishings and tasteful decor ring true to the homestead’s Victorian past, while oregon pine floorboards and high-beamed ceilings reflect its rustic surroundings. With great care and dedication, they have recreated an elegant tribute to colonial country living. Leisurely walks around the scenic grounds provide many an opportunity to admire the indigenous birdlife, or the farms own ostriches
Rooms
Rich colours and soft textures combine with animal print and fine embroidery to create accommodation fit for kings and queens. Immerse yourself in the superbly decorated suites and double rooms with comfortable private sitting rooms and en-suite bathrooms.
With the attention to detail, every need is catered for and the rich atmosphere beckons you into perfect slumber.
Attractions
Altes Landhaus is a convenient and centrally-situated base from which to explore the scenic attractions of the Little Karoo, and the natural beauty of the nearby Garden Route.
A fascinating ostrich show farm, wildlife ranch and cheetah sanctuary, as well as the awe-inspiring Cango limestone caves are all within easy reach, while the spectacular Swartberg Pass offers magnificent views and a breathtaking journey to the old-world charm of Prince Albert village. The good things in life may be savoured in Calitzdorp, South Africa’s port wine capital, while the more adventurous at heart may prefer an exhilarating day trip into the remote and rugged Gamkaskloof valley.
Beyond the great Outeniqua mountains, a mere 45-minute drive away, the tantalising beaches of the Wilderness beckon, with the picturesque towns of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay offering ample opportunity for holiday shopping, leisure adventure, forest walks and seaside sojourns. Returning via the historic town of Mossel Bay, the Robinson Pass gives glimpses of unspoilt mountain fynbos vegetation and myriad proteas in bloom. Renowned for its first-rate golf courses, the area provides sportsmen with varied challenges in spectacular surroundings.
Leisure
OUTDOORS:The hot Karoo air provides an intoxicating backdrop for the clear turquoise waters of the solar heated salt-water swimming pool, where you can relax and soak up some sunlight. Tucked away in a tranquil corner of the homestead’s garden it also features a friendly pool bar. For the golf enthusiast, improve your short game on a short pitch-and-putt hole, with a separate practice green at the lodge.
Other leisure activities can be found in the Garden Route: Enjoy the beauty and adventure of this area, with whale watching, hiking, horse riding, fishing, game viewing and much more. Renowned for its first-rate golf courses, the area provides sportsmen with varied challenges in spectacular surroundings - including the magnificent courses of Fancourt in George, only 50 minutes away. Home of the 2003 President’s Cup and the 2005 Women’s World Cup of Golf. Then there's Pezula, a Championship Course in Knysna, and of course the Oudtshoorn Country Club, set to become one of the definitive Golf Course Estates in the Karoo.
INDOORS:For the more quiet and reserved guest, you'll find a beautifull lounge with two cosy fire places where you can stretch out, relax and read a book or two.
In the dinning area you'll find an African atmosphere, reed ceilings and scented summer fragrances waft in from the garden immersing the spacious patio area, where guests are invited to dine during the long summer months. Enjoy generous farm and continental breakfasts and a la carte dinners, including a choice of the finest local specialities: ostrich, fresh fish, succulent Karoo lamb, game or fresh farm chicken. Very pleasing indeed.
Info & Pics from Altes Landhaus Country Lodge website |
