Inland from the Garden Route and just outside Oudtshoorn - the ostrich capital of South Africa - is the family farm of Mooiplaas. Translating as a 'beautiful farm', this working ostrich farm, which also farms maize and alfalfa, is owner-run and -managed. The guesthouse is a beautifully restored farmhouse that still has its traditional facade and covered veranda.

Be sure to go on the tour of the farm to get up close to the thousands of ostriches and, if you are lucky, watch the enormous eggs hatch or hold a fluffy chick. You can also explore the town of Oudtshoorn or take a trip out to see the nearby and hugely impressive Cango Caves. Otherwise, just relax in the shade of the veranda between dips in the swimming pool.

Highlights

• Set on a working ostrich farm near Oudtshoorn
• Classic, owner-run country hospitality
• Surrounded by beautiful views of the Klein Karoo
• Farm-style breakfasts, dinners, and picnic baskets
• Well-equipped for families as part of a Garden Route adventure

Activities

• HIKING
• STAR GAZING
• DAY TOURS

Friendly service, outstanding food, and the wide open grassy spaces is the first thoughts that come to mind when I reminisce about this lovely guest house.

Rooms

Supreme Suite

The Honeymoon or Superior Suites all have private patios with particularly breathtaking views of the Swartberg Mountains and Oudtshoorn.

Young families will appreciate the Family Suites that sleep four people and can be linked by inter-leading doors.

In addition, a neighboring farmhouse has been converted into four modern, self-catering suites with king-size beds, stylish en suite bathrooms, self-catering facilities, and a private patio. Reserve the farmhouse for a large family group - the house has a private swimming pool, comfy lounge, fireplace, an elegant dining room, and a spacious farmhouse kitchen in addition to the facilities found in each room.

Luxury Twin Room

There are 16 large and comfortable, air-conditioned rooms at Mooiplaas. Each is en suite with a lounge area, separate entrance, and often a patio or balcony.

Facilities

Take the fascinating farm tour to understand exactly how a modern ostrich farm works, then browse the ostrich products in the gift shop.

You can also take a very welcome dip in the large, refreshing swimming pool or enjoy a relaxing treatment in the spa.

Nothing makes one feel smaller than an enormous Karoo night sky, so be sure to enquire about the incredible stargazing sessions at Mooiplaas.

Dining

Breakfast is a hearty farm-style affair served in the sunny breakfast room or out on the covered veranda overlooking the pool whereas dinner is a delicious four-course meal by candlelight, ostrich-inspired of course, or you may have a barbeque.

If you are heading out for the day or fancy a picnic on the farm, be sure to enquire about Mooiplaas’s generous and tasty picnic baskets. And let them know if it is a special occasion; they will pack an extra-special basket.

Have a pre-dinner drink or nightcap in the Mooiplaas Gentleman’s Bar, and if you fancy a change of scenery, your hosts will happily recommend and book a restaurant for you in town.