I’m always thrilled to discover tour companies that I hadn’t previously heard of – there’s a lot to be said, after all, about using smaller, independent companies. So I was really excited to hear about Sally and Alice Travel Co., who specialise in honeymoons and complex itineraries to Africa, the Middle East and the Indian Ocean, and small, hand-picked places to stay – perfect honeymoon territory, really. Today, I’m delighted to have Sally Kirby, co-founder of Sally and Alice Travel Co., sharing one of her favourite places to stay – and I think you’ll agree that it sounds (and looks) fabulous.
Tell us about one of your favourite places to stay/visit/eat….
Bartholomeus Klip Farmhouse in the Western Cape, South Africa.
What’s so special about it?
If I could live in a rural farmstead – this would be it! The beautifully restored Victorian farmhouse is surrounded by 10,000 acres of private nature reserve with a dramatic panoramic mountain backdrop, which is best explored on foot, mountain bike or canoe. As a working farm, it is home to merino sheep, buffalo and seasonal crops – and there is always something going on for even the most ‘urbanised’ city folk to get involved with. It is one of the most relaxing and romantic places I have ever visited; an afternoon at the ‘Deckhouse’ on the edge of their lake-sized dam, or by the pool in their extensive gardens – both perfect spots for quiet reading and afternoon tea….which you do not want to miss, the food here is incredible!
For you, what was the highlight of your stay here?
It has to be the food. I love home-made and locally-sourced food and I have never experienced anything like the dining at Bartholomeus Klip Farmhouse. The seasonal menu changes daily, and the chefs display a real passion for food in its simplicity and complexity – paired with award-winning wines from neighbouring wine estates, it is gastro-heaven in an unpretentious way.
What’s the local area like?
They are just thirty minutes from Franschhoek, so at the heart of the wine-producing region of South Africa. This historic area stretches back to 1680 with the arrival and settlement of the Huguenots of France and is today home to some of the most spectacular scenery, and a number of the world’s finest wine estates – check out the new wine-tasting lounge at opulent Delaire Graff Estate.
Would you visit again?
I would absolutely love to go back, and shall be doing so on my next trip to South Africa. Last time I visited it was the hot Summer months, so I look forward to returning in the cooler Winter months when evenings are spent in cosy snugs throughout the farmhouse with open log fires and home-made brandy….heaven!
Photos courtesy of Sally and Alice Travel Co.
