A quick stop off at Affie Plaas Padstal (a South African road side food stall) A must visit when passing through Robertson for the best homemade pies and treats!
We also stopped by Mo & Rose. A beautiful guest house, wine bistro and succulent garden! I have never seen such amazing succulents and of course the wine wasn't too bad either!
Arriving at Jan Harmsgat
The Truffle journal was founded out of nostalgia. I think there is something truly special about tradition and history. To honour it and embrace it in this day and age is remarkable.
A favourite pastime of mine is to seek out places that flip the switch. If you don’t know what I am referring to; let me explain. The proverbial ‘switch’ of life that has us scurrying about our daily lives without much thought. The incessant hum drum of city living, the buzzing of technology and the crescendo of mental noise in the fast lane.
I love to find places that simply turn it all off. That make you take a step back, relax and breathe in the fresh air.
Places that make you want to go to bed early and wake up with the sunrise.
One such place that embodies the spirit of the coveted weekend getaway in comfort is nestled between Swellendam and Robertson. Simply called Jan Harmsgat, this five star establishment oozes history and takes visitors back in time in style. Rated 5 stars by the tourism grading council this historical country house offers fine dining and ultimate luxury.
The hospitality is genuine farm style and everything is done with a smile. Most of the staff have been there for more years than I care to count and are proud to call Jan Harmsgat home.
The farm was established in 1723 and every nook and cranny is filled with a story to tell. The homestead speaks of the quality and craftsmanship of a by gone era, where every detail and accent was hand made. Filled with antiques the country house is true delight!
I was lucky enough to be invited to attend a 5-course wine pairing recently and sampled the various wines that are being produced by the estate.
The estate currently has 5 wines namely Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage. All of which were paired with perfect complimentary flavours on the evening. To say that I was impressed by the experience would be an understatement.
The farm also boasts magnificent pecan nut trees and there is no shortage of fresh nuts! A real delight to sit around the fireplace wrapped in warmth having a glass of wine and nibbling at freshly cracked pecans!
Whether you choose to explore the local area of your getaway or prefer to stay in, Jan Harmsgat is definitely worth checking out (and in).
-Melissa