The Retreat At Groenfontein

The Retreat At Groenfontein

Selected by The Greenwood Guide to South Africa, 2nd edition

Text written by Simon Greenwood

A tiny gravel road twists along the sides of this idyllic valley, beside the river that gives the Retreat its name, while abandoned Cape Dutch farm buildings line the route which eventually leads to the Burtons� Victorian-colonial homestead. They ran a popular wilderness lodge in Namibia before trawling southern Africa for a new Eden, and it took years to find Groenfontein. It was worth the wait. The view from the verandah � where guests eat once they�ve been persuaded to sit down - crosses a valley and climbs the Burtons� own mountain before joining the vast Swartberg Nature Reserve.

What with the hiking trails that Grant and Marie are cutting, the opportunities for merry traipsing are limitless. If (when!) it gets hot, you can swim in river or pool, or collapse inside the gloriously cool house. Many original furnishings remain, including marble fireplaces and pine and yellowwood flooring, while much of the newer stuff has been built by Grant himself. "He�s very handy," says Marie admiringly. Airy bedrooms benefit from simple combinations of blues, whites and pale woods, with duvet and curtain designs of Marie�s own creation. This is an incredible area to explore - kloofs, mountain wilderness, half-forgotten roads etc � but you can always come home to hearty meals, welcoming hosts and a truly relaxed household. You will want at least two nights.

Contact Details

Telephone: +27-(0)44 2133880
Facsimile: +27-(0)44 2133880

Email address:
groenfon@iafrica.com