Escape to peace and serenity

Mirages of orange paint the water of the Springfield salt pan, with dark cloud patches adding dramatic effect to the scene. I stared in awed silence as birds swept over the landscape, making their way home after a long day.

Just beyond the pan you get a turn to the left leading to Rhenosterkop, a historical farmstead in Agulhas National Park. This homestead consists of four cottages, all built according to the traditional style of the time. Mathhys Lourens established the farm in 1742 and received grazing rights in 1757.

The land was only formally registered in his name in 1836.The name Rhenosterkop was derived from the skull of a black rhino that was once discovered in the area.

Most of the cottages have interesting histories, including the small old shepherd’s house, today cottage number two, where I stayed. One of the stories is that of Jan Mankie Swart. As a child he wanted to fly and attached flamingo feathers to his arms.

He jumped off the roof and was crippled for the rest of his life. Among the large trees I later learnt that the original fig and Cape mulberry trees still grow at this house. An old dip hole is still visible along with the remains of the original langhuis next to chalet one under the trees.
The cottages are equipped with solar lighting and a gas geyser, but no electricity.

The kitchen is fully equipped with all necessary appliances and a fireplace. A braai area under the trees offers the perfect opportunity to relax and listen to the nightlife. The property is ideal for walks in the fynbos and birdwatching as the yard is painted with flowers of numerous species every season. I even found myself on my knees snapping little bugs and slugs on the smallest flowers growing in the area.

The squeaky old windmill on the property pumps fresh drinking water and is still in use today.
Book one of these cottages if you are not looking for a sea view. You may not be far from it, but you won’t be able to see it from the accommodation units. The farm is accessible via a dirt road and I easily arrived by sedan.

Location
Rhenosterkop Farm is situated about 31 kilometres from Cape Agulhas Lighthouse, off the Struisbaai/Elim Road.

View
Fynbos grows naturally and attracts numerous bird species. The white strandveld cottages scattered over the property with blooming flowers, depending on the season, add contrast to the new.

Moment to remember
The magnificent sunset over the salt pans situated just beyond the turn-off to the farm, and hearing an owl hoot in the distance as millions of stars lit up the skyline.

Who should go
Birding enthusiasts and nature lovers, also those who appreciate the peaceful farm setting. One of the cottages is accessible to the mobility impaired.

Price
R660 or R700 (low and high season respectively) for a bedroom with two single beds. Family cottages can accommodate up to four people. Prices are subject to change after October 31.

Bookings:
Central reservations
+27-12-428-9111 or
+27-82-233-9111. Email reservations@sanparks.org