Boesmanskloof: a valley undersold

Hey there! Have you ever heard of Boesmanskloof? No? Well, let me tell you about this hidden gem that often goes unnoticed. Boesmanskloof is a beautiful valley tucked away in the heart of nature, beckoning adventurers and nature lovers alike.

When I stumbled upon Boesmanskloof while exploring, I was mesmerized by its untouched beauty. The valley, surrounded by majestic mountains and lush greenery, presents a picturesque view that feels straight out of a fairy tale.

But Boesmanskloof isn’t just about its stunning scenery; it offers so much more. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted with the diverse flora and fauna that call this valley home. The tranquil rivers and cascading waterfalls add an enchanting touch to the already majestic landscape.

If you’re someone who loves hiking, Boesmanskloof will be your paradise. The valley is home to several captivating hiking trails that showcase the true essence of nature. As you traverse these trails, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking vistas at every turn. The sense of calm and serenity that surrounds you is truly unparalleled.

Oh, and did I mention the birdwatching opportunities? Boesmanskloof is a haven for bird lovers. The valley is home to a wide variety of bird species, offering a chance to observe and appreciate these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat. So make sure to bring your binoculars!

For those seeking solace and an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Boesmanskloof provides an ideal retreat. It’s a place where you can disconnect from the noise, rejuvenate your soul, and reconnect with nature. The tranquility that envelops you here is truly therapeutic.

So, if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure or a peaceful getaway, Boesmanskloof is the place to be. Don’t let this hidden gem go undiscovered. Explore its wonders, immerse yourself in nature, and experience the magic that Boesmanskloof has to offer. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

Up north, past the Boesmanskloof, you’ll find a collection of vineyards, restaurants, and art galleries that often go overlooked when compared to popular spots like Franschhoek or Stellenbosch. However, don’t be fooled by the lack of attention – these hidden gems offer top-notch experiences that are sure to leave you astounded. For my own adventure, I decided to make the beautiful Gooding’s Country House my home base for a weekend filled with exploration.

Can you believe we only just found this place? I can’t wrap my head around it. We’re driving up and over the hill, hoping to find our accommodation, and we can’t help but be amazed by the stunning valley that opens up before us. On one side, there’s a rugged mountain range, and on the other, there are hills covered in fynbos. As we make our way down the bumpy dirt road, we notice the irrigation canals that wind their way through the valley, keeping everything lush and green. And then, there it is – a beautiful white manor sitting proudly on a piece of land that overlooks the olive groves below.

I’m Malcolm Gooding, and I want to tell you about Gooding’s Country House. My wife, Salomé, and I built this amazing place on our olive farm in Joburg. It’s nestled in a beautiful valley, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

When we designed the house, we wanted it to blend in with the stunning surroundings. That’s why we chose a Karoo-Georgian style of architecture. From the sweeping verandah, you can enjoy the view of our lush lawn, infinity pool, and a grove of 3,000 magnificent olive trees. To top it off, a row of bluegum trees stands tall, creating an elegant entrance to our little piece of paradise.

As I walk into the house, I’m immediately greeted by a charming farmhouse vibe. The Nguni hide and the Persian rug effortlessly blend together, creating a unique atmosphere. I can’t help but smile as I notice the quirky Union Jack-adorned dining chairs, which are perfectly balanced by the elegant dark-wood armchairs placed by the grand central fireplace.

The Country House is a wonderful place to stay, offering all the comforts of a self-catering accommodation. The modern kitchen is both beautiful and practical, with its spacious island worktop and convenient gas hob. Cooking here is truly a pleasure.

The farmhouse theme continues throughout the three bedrooms connected to the lounge. Each bedroom has its own en suite bathroom and comfortable beds. What I love the most is the personal touch in the decoration of each room. It’s clear that a lot of thought and care has gone into making this place special.

I can’t help but wonder why this incredible house isn’t booked solid for the entire year. It feels like finding a hidden gem. I feel lucky to have stumbled upon it.

Wine + Dine

The next day, I couldn’t resist tearing myself away from our beloved country house to embark on the exciting mission of exploring the local wineries. Our first stop was the illustrious De Wetshof Estate, where we were eager to sample their renowned Chardonnay.

This entire region, situated along the majestic Breede River, boasts limestone-rich soil, which happens to be highly coveted for cultivating chardonnay grapes. And let me tell you, De Wetshof has truly mastered this art. We kicked off our wine-tasting journey with the delightfully delicate and unoaked Limestone Hill. As we savored each sip, we gradually made our way to the incredibly rich and complex Bateleur Chardonnay 2016 – a wine that stands as a magnificent testament to De Wetshof’s century-old and truly unmatched Chardonnay legacy.

So, I decide to cross the road and head to Viljoensdrift’s river deck. It’s such a beautiful spot. And, just on a whim, I decide to book a boat ride. But before we get on the boat, I grab a snack platter and a bottle of Shiraz Rosé. Gotta have something to enjoy while cruising on the water, right?

The boat takes us up and down the Breede River. It’s a peaceful journey, although it does start to feel a bit repetitive after a while. But hey, the view is pretty, and I can’t complain about that. What’s even better is that the snack platter I got has a variety of cheeses and charcuterie. Not only does it taste great, but it also keeps my stomach happy, so I can continue exploring the vineyards without any worries (don’t worry, we have a designated driver).

When it’s time for the next stop on our wine adventure, I suggest heading to Quando. Here, we get to savor the flavors of two incredible wines. First up is a delightful blend of Chenin Blanc and Viognier. This wine is perfect for easy sipping, and it has a lovely taste of rose petals and apricot.

Next, we have the Quando Pinot Noir. This wine truly impresses with its rich flavors of dark fruit and forest berries. What makes it even more special is that the grapes are grown on one of the highest vineyards in the Breede River Valley, nestled halfway up the Langeberg Mountains.

After exploring the vineyards, it’s time to head back home. But the excitement doesn’t end there. Back at Gooding’s Country House, we decide to grill up a pair of juicy steaks for dinner. As we enjoy our meal, we can’t help but be captivated by the breathtaking sunset views from the terrace.

Home is where the art is

I wake up the next morning and make the decision to head west. The drive is smooth, and before I know it, I find myself arriving in the charming town of McGregor. As I enter the town, a sense of quaintness washes over me. It feels like stepping into an old English village, but with a hint of the Karoo’s unique charm.

As I stroll through the main street, I can’t help but admire the eclectic architecture on display. The buildings here are a delightful mix of quirky and traditional, creating a captivating blend that is uniquely McGregor.

Feeling hungry, I decide to stop for lunch at Tebaldi’s. The shaded patio provides the perfect spot to enjoy a delectable salmon meal. With my appetite satisfied, I take a leisurely walk through the enchanting garden that surrounds the Temenos Retreat. The garden is surprisingly spacious and impeccably maintained, adding to the overall charm of the place.

There’s something about McGregor that pulls artists in, almost like an invisible magnetic force. Some people think it’s the breathtaking views that inspire and captivate all kinds of creative individuals in this quiet little town. Others believe it’s the mysterious energy lines that attract and enchant artists from different backgrounds. Whatever it is, we just can’t leave without admiring the incredible work of McGregor’s top creators.

So, we make our way to La Galleria on Bree Street, where we’re greeted by Dani’s Photos’ latest collection of amazing and thought-provoking photographs and fine-art prints. This place opened its doors in 2017 and continues to showcase the works of other exceptionally talented artists through solo exhibitions.

On the same road, you’ll find Millstone Pottery, a place where magic happens. Run by Paul de Jongh and Nina Shand, this studio and showroom is a true gem. As I step inside, I am greeted by an array of stunning pottery pieces. The diversity is remarkable, ranging from wood-fired stoneware to more traditional electric-fired functional works. But that’s not all – there are also pieces that are more abstract and sculptural in nature. It’s like stepping into a world where clay comes to life.

I can’t help but be drawn to the energy and creativity that fills the air. Paul and Nina, with their passion and talent, create pieces that are truly unique. And if you’re looking to nurture your own creativity, you’re in luck. They also offer workshops, including their highly popular annual Jamboree. It’s an opportunity to learn from the masters and unlock your artistic potential.

After immersing myself in the beauty of pottery, I feel a thirst for something more. That’s when I stumble upon the Old Post Office Whisky Bar. It’s like stepping back in time as I enter the cozy, inviting space. The bar is housed in a restored 19th-century building, adding to its charm.

The owner, John Oldham, a charming UK native, welcomes me with open arms. As we strike up a conversation, I soon realize that John is not just a bar owner – he’s a whisky connoisseur. With a twinkle in his eye, he shares his vast knowledge and experiences, regaling me with fascinating tales. And when it comes to whisky, he takes pride in his collection. In fact, he claims to have the second biggest whisky collection in the Western Cape.

So, whether you’re a lover of pottery or a fan of fine whiskies, this road has something for everyone. It’s a journey of exploration and discovery that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Come and experience the magic for yourself.

As I return to my home away from home, I decide to take a leisurely stroll on one of the trails that wind through the olive groves. These trails lead me around and through the beautiful bluegum and Port Jackson forests that border the Gooding property. I hear the distinct and melancholic cry of a fish eagle nearby, and I gaze up to catch a glimpse of this magnificent predator perched high in its nest within the bluegum tree.

Later, as I settle in, I light a cozy fire in the hearth of the Country House. I sip on a glass of red wine, feeling a profound sense of peace and satisfaction. I can’t help but reflect on the absolutely extraordinary weekend I’ve had. It’s truly mind-boggling that this valley, with all its beauty and charm, is still relatively undiscovered. If you’re in need of a serene and rejuvenating escape, I highly recommend reaching out to the Goodings.

Cost: The Country House is available for R1,650 per night

Written by Richard Brown