Bartholomeus Klip, Hermon, South Africa

Bartholomeus Klip is an exclusive country lodge on a working wheat and sheep farm and nature reserve.  Here, in this unexplored region only an hour by car from Cape Town's international airport, you can feel part of the peaceful life of rural South Africa and its clean crisp air and star-filled night skies.  The Victorian homestead has been meticulously renovated, and the fine fabrics and family antiques make you feel as if you are a guest in someone's much-loved home.  The farmhouse is surrounded by rose-filled gardens and ancient oaks, with benches tucked away in quiet places perfect for absorbing the peace and relaxed atmosphere.  WILDLIFE   The nature reserve, with its characteristic fynbos and rare renosterveld vegetation, forms part of the Cape Floral Kingdom.  The reserve in springtime is 'flower heaven', with sheets of colour and a myriad of different bulbs, orchids and daisies.  Among the animal species at Bartholomeus Klip are eland, springbuck, wildebeest, gemsbok, red hartebeest, baboon, bat-eared fox, jackal, lynx, Cape fox and leopard.  More than 160 species of birds have been recorded, including the endangered blue crane and the African fish eagle. FACILITIES Facilities include a salt-water swimming pool with a deck that is ideal for sunbathing or sundowners, and the boathouse, where the wonderful brunches are served, with a spectacular view over the dam.  The food at Bartholomeus Klip is in the French tradition but with a local flavour, complemented by wines from the famous winelands of the Western Cape.  There are two TVs in the main rooms.    No. of Bedrooms Five comfortable bedrooms (no TVs). Pool Yes Activities Walking or hiking in the reserve Riding mountain bikes through the wheat fields Game drives - over 500 head of game - and birdwatching Swimming in the salt-water pool    Windsurfing, boating and canoeing on the huge dam Visit the nearby country towns of Wellington, Tulbagh or Riebeeck Kasteel. Find Similar Properties