An idyllic stay at the foot of the Skurweberg

With their beautiful views, scenic hiking and mountain biking routes, and comfortable amenities, Fairfield Cottages and their surrounds in the Western Cape are perfect for relaxation or adventure, says Brian Berkman.

- Brian Berkman

Fairfield farm, just 6km north of Ceres on the road to Prince Alfred Hamlet, is a thriving pome fruit operation, with 41ha planted to apples and 40ha to pears. There are also 40 head of cattle.

The farm has three guest cottages and is a popular breakaway destination, which is hardly surprising given its location. Set at the foot of the majestic Skurweberg, it offers superb scenery and every incentive to take advantage of the outdoors: hiking and mountain biking routes, birdwatching aplenty, a large dam for fishing and canoeing, and more.

Owner Connie Malherbe is quick to give his wife, Anita, credit for the success of the agritourism side of their business.

"I'd earned some extra money from playing semi-professional rugby. So in 1998 I converted two of the farm houses, Fynbos and Klipspringer, into tourist accommodation. But it's since Anita took over the running of the cottages in the last few years that they've become a sought-after destination. "The expansion to the third cottage has been more recent," he says.

ACCOMMODATION

Fynbos, the largest of the three cottages, can accommodate 12, while Mountain Spring and Klipspringer have space for six each. Pets, too, are allowed at an extra cost of R100/pet/night.

Farmer's Weekly enjoyed a delightful springtime stay in Klipspringer.

The cottages, managed and maintained by Anita, Hellouise Baadjies, Riana Muller and Ragel Nel, are spotless on arrival and have thoughtful touches such as fresh flowers.

Klipspringer has a queen-sized bed, a double bed and two single beds.

Lodgings are very comfortable with beautiful white bed linens and towels.