A MERE 12km from Middelburg, on the road to Graaff-Reinet, a white wall announces the turn-off to Erin Farmhouse and Cottages.
This little homestead, tucked between trees just 2km off the tar road, has a rich history where Justin and Freyni du Toit welcome weary travellers with true Karoo hospitality.
The couple bought Erin shortly before lockdown, which meant that many of their plans had to be postponed until they could finally start bringing their dreams to life towards the end of 2020.
“It has been a fantastic journey of moving into the countryside and living surrounded by beautiful nature,” Freyni said.
With a history dating back to the Georgian era, Erin has been home to many families.
“We recently had a very special visit from a lady who had family ties to Erin dating back almost 100 years.
“She was the great-granddaughter of someone who had lived at and then lost Erin during the Great Depression, and she came to see the old farmhouse where her great-grandmother had lived.”
The shed is called Rosemary Lodge, due to the two huge and magnificently fragrant rosemary bushes growing at its entrance. The outbuildings make up a total of five overnight units with the Meerkat and Mongoose units offering spectacular views of Renosterberg and stretching Karoo plains.
Visitors can enjoy safe walks in the fresh air, and there is a lot of open space for pets to get rid of excess energy; while enclosed gardens offer pet owners the luxury of sitting back and enjoying a peaceful sundowner.
“We are currently setting up a campsite which should be ready for visitors in early 2022. We are also restoring an old Bedford truck into a new unit, with marvellous views and an outdoor bath/shower in a secluded spot,” Freyni revealed.
Erin Farmhouse and Cottages are fully equipped for self-catering, but conveniently offer breakfast baskets, uncooked braai packs and scrumptious home-cooked two course dinners. Meals can also be adjusted for vegetarians and vegans.
- To book your stay at Erin Farmhouse and Cottages, contact Freyni on 083 256 7202 or email erinfarmhouse@gmail.com. Their VOIP is 0498422293, and you can follow their story on Facebook, Instagram (erinfarmhouse) and Google.
