Bartholomeus Klip

The heart of this rambling Victorian farmhouse is undoubtedly the kitchen, which, despite its constant hum of activity, is always open to gastronomes looking to learn a thing or two (or sniffing out what treats are in store). Dining takes place in the conservatory, bathed in morning sun for breakfasts and aglow with candles at dinner. High Tea is taken in the lovely sitting room. Sip your morning coffee or sundowner on the veranda, lost in the vast views.

Inside the farmhouse, four large double en-suite rooms, each decorated charmingly in French country style, offer fine linens and all the amenities, plus a bottle of sherry for your evening nightcap. Outside, the stand-alone Wild Olive House is a self-catering unit with two double bedrooms, a single, and two bathrooms, a kitchen, lounge and terrace. You can be as independent as you like here, although you're welcome at the main farmhouse for meals or to use its communal spaces anytime.

Drives through the reserve reveal its surprisingly rich wildlife, from herds of eland, springbok, black wildebeest, zebra and bontebok to baboon, bat-eared fox and lynx, and a goodly number of birds. On a farm tour, see crops of wheat, oats, canola and clover, and the 4000 merino sheep, which are raised primarily for their wool. (Visit at lambing time for some 'Aaah!' moments.) Hop on a mountain bike, hike the many trails, or try your hand at archery.