Farm 215 Nature Retreat is an environmentally-friendly resort tucked away in the Uilkraal Valley of South Africa's Western Cape. It is a partnership with the African Horse Company, who provide horse riding safaris on their own riding trails in the South Overberg region.
A modern farmstead, Farm 215 is part of a 2,000 acre private nature reserve set within one of the world's most beautiful floral zones—the Cape Floral Kingdom. It's a stunning, isolated retreat. Though situated only three hours from Cape Town, it couldn't feel further away, amid the natural splendour of the Cape Floral Kingdom, where guests are treated to wonderful views of the ocean and of fields and mountains carpeted in fynbos.
Farm 215 is one of our favourite of the many luxury resorts to be found in this region of South Africa, and a great stop-over for those travelling the Garden Route from Cape Town. Its location is unmatched, while the guest rooms, of which there are only six, are beautiful. In short: a stylish, boutique resort (don't expect a rustic, colonial-era farmstead - it's very contemporary) offering comfortable and stylish accommodation in a remarkable setting.
Accommodation
There are only six rooms at Farm 215, three within the old homestead and three separate guest units. The newer rooms stand out the most. Contemporary in design, these stylish rooms have wall-to-wall windows allowing for marvellous views of the Agulhas Plains and the ocean beyond, and open onto wooden decks with private sitting areas. Inside the lounge and bedroom are open-plan, and have as their focal point a cosy fireplace. The en-suite bathrooms feature large bathtubs and shower units. Natural toiletries are provided, many made from locally-sourced plants.
The homestead rooms are more traditionally furnished than the units, but otherwise offer a similar standard of accommodation. The views are more limited from inside (each has an outdoor balcony or terrace). There is one ground-floor room which is larger and features a separate lounge, and two upstairs rooms.
The rooms at Farm 215 are equipped with all the expected modern amenities, including tea/coffee facilities, fan, Wi-Fi, CD player and stove/fireplace. The power at Farm 215 (the lodge relies on solar power) imposes some limitations, however. There are no TVs in the rooms, and certain electric devices such as hairdryers cannot be used as they're liable to cause power trips.
Dining
Meals are served in the dining area behind the main farmstead. The dining room has a sleek, modern design, comparable to the guest units. There's an outdoor terrace for al fresco dining, and indoor dining room with fireplace for the cool winter evenings.
Breakfast is a simple buffet meal, while dinner is a fixed menu. The kitchen relies heavily on local produce, including meat and vegetables produced on the farm.
Facilities
Wireless internet
Lap-pool
Lounge and bar
Activities
Botanical walks
Horse riding
Spa treatments
Boat trips
Child Policy
Children over the age of 12 can be accommodated at Farm 215 but at the full adult rate. Children under 12 may be accommodated but only on prior arrangement and if booking one of the fynbos-suites.
Environmental Policy
Farm 215 is managed as a sustainable operation, as is the farm of which it is a part, and is certified by Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa. It's eco-friendly, relying on solar-power for its electrcity. It is part of the Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy.
