WELLNESS AND WONDER
Sterrekopje, a healing farm in Franschhoek, is all about staying, resting, growing, and playing. Owned by Nicole and Fleur, they have created a private sanctuary on 120 acres of a centuries-old working farm. The retreat includes 11 beautifully appointed suites, each individually decorated with love and meaning, and carefully curated to foster deep restorative sleep and inspire contemplation and creativity.
Sterrekopje caters to those who wish to perhaps evolve, slow down, detach the mind, and feel rejuvenated. Food is grown on the farm providing a soil-to-soul culinary experience. Some of the best wines in the area can be enjoyed here too. Meals are communal and interactive, creating a sense of community, sharing, and friendship. (Of course, there is always the option to dine privately).
The daily farm rhythms include walking in gardens, hiking, foraging, biking, cooking, swimming in the natural dam, horse therapy, a creative studio, and healing treatments and rituals in the Bathhouse. And lastly, there is the option of doing absolutely nothing. Just rest. Someone once said, “It’s from a place of rest that we discover a true path to growth.”
Perfect for honeymooners, single travellers, friends, couples, or those who want to rediscover their inner child.
Did you know?
Sterrekopje means Star above the mountain.
Slow Walks & Hikes, are able to create unforgettable walking experiences, where nature, a healthy dose of fresh air, and some SLOW magic come together on Cape Town’s iconic mountains. Their qualified local mountain and cultural guides are passionate storytellers instilling an appreciation and connection to South Africa’s most iconic city. SLOW offers a variety of routes catering to different fitness levels, including a challenging hike up its steep slopes or a leisurely exploration of the plateau using the famous cableway. Alternatively, one can opt for a picturesque contour path mountain walk that includes Kirstenbosch Gardens and a delightful wine-tasting experience. Explore Cape Town slowly and differently!
Did you know?
Walking serves as a gentle form of exercise that gets your blood flowing, relaxes your muscles, and helps combat jet lag. The rhythmic movement of walking or the exhilarating rush of hiking releases endorphins, which lowers stress levels, helps improves ones mood, and enhances an overall sense of well-being.
Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat is a place of ancient and untamed beauty. This healing haven, situated at the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains just 270km from Cape Town, is the ideal wilderness getaway to escape, restore and relax. The reserve is a natural playground for those who want to reconnect with themselves and the essence of life, with wide, open plains, mystical rock formations, crystal clear waterfalls, and an abundance of flora and fauna. The retreat also boasts an outdoor riverside dual Spa Gazebo offering panoramic views of the staggering rock formations and spoiling guests with the latest advances in global spa and wellness trends.
Did you know?
Bushman’s Kloof has scientifically designed nutritional options that include recipes using indigenous Fynbos and Rooibos plants. The Rooibos plant was widely used by the Khoisan as a herbal remedy for many different ailments. At Bushmans Kloof, it is used in many ways, from spa treatments, and handmade soaps in the guest rooms, to iced tea.
Farah Floris from our Product Team and Nicole Abrahams a Great Plains Safari Designer, recently visited La Botessa, a Cape Town city gem. This is what they have to say:
“La Botessa is an elegant gem in the heart of Cape Town CBD and is situated in one of the oldest buildings in Cape Town, rich in history and elegance. The sense of calm, as you step foot into the hotel, could be attributed to the Fragrance Boutique illuminating the ground floor lobby. Also located on the ground floor is the restaurant ‘Café & Terrace,’ offering al fresco dining on a gardened terrace in the heart of the building. The welcome lounge is accessed by a short flight of spiral stairs further up into the building. Here, guests are warmly greeted by the staff and introduced to the wonders of La Botessa. From the welcome lounge, guests can access their suites by lift, and it’s worth noting that wheelchair access is available from the ground floor.
We had the opportunity to see the Signature Suite and the Presidential Suite, each impressing us with grandeur and luxury. We could not help noticing the chilled bottle of bubbles ready to welcome guests when checking in for a luxurious stay. The Signature suite is spacious, open-plan, modern, and elegant, featuring a lounge area and en suite. It also includes a gym in a bag and a hidden compartment in the closet that opens up to a bar fridge with all-inclusive snacks and drinks. The Presidential Suite, fit for a movie star, has all of the above plus its very own balcony and plunge pool on the top floor, offering magnificent views of the mountain and Church Square.
It was a pleasure to see Rudi Wagenaar, who is now handling the marketing for this exquisite gem. We loved the energy of La Botessa and believe this property works well for couples who are less concerned about being near tourist attractions. It is ideal for those who prefer small, boutique, owner-run hotels and appreciate art. It was really exciting to be able to explore a property in the city for a change!”
Please contact our Safari Designers for any information on our preferred partners in this Collective edition.
Keeping the dream alive
