Somerset Gift Getaway Farm

Somerset Gift Getaway Farm

N 2 Near Sparrenbosch, Swellendam 6740 South Africa
Traveller (183)
Kitchen Olive Cottage
Room & Suite (41)
View of small lake
Pool & Beach (8)
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About

#1 of 9 lodges in Swellendam
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.4 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.6 of 5 bubbles
Value
4.5 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.7 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.5 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.

This breathtakingly beautiful farm is situated just outside the historical town of Swellendam (the third oldest town in South Africa) in a lush green valley bordering the foothills of the majestic Langeberg Mountain.

The setting is simply idyllic, with stunning views of the mountain, green pastures where cattle and horses graze, a serene spring-fed lake, and the lovely Buffeljags River which runs the length of the farm.

The farm has ownership rights to a few thousand hectares of pristine mountain ground with trails through indigenous forest and fynbos to magical mountain valleys, waterfalls and rock pools.

This truly is a paradise for all.

Media reviews:

"I think it is one of the most idyllic places I have yet discovered... it is a piece of paradise right in our back yard." (CEO Cape Town Tourism, Nov 2007)

"Perfect where the road ends........ owner Dion Wright has ticked all the right boxes when it comes to creating my perfect country escape....." (Sunday Times review of Somerset Gift Getaway farm by Richard Holmes, 3 February 2013)

Somerset Gift Getaway farm has four charming self-catering accommodation options, Fish Eagle lodge, Rose cottage, Loerie cottage and Olive cottage. The cottages are tastefully appointed with Cape cottage furniture, set about 50m apart and staggered for privacy so individually private yet close enough to be convenient for group bookings.

The accommodation is extremely spacious and designed to take advantage of the magnificent settings with large outside undercover furnished living areas for all weather comfort. All the cottages have manicured gardens with large open grassy areas for the kids to play.

The 'Bushbuck pub' is set on the water where guests can socialise, watch a game of rugby or cricket while keeping an eye on the kids swimming, fishing, canoeing and having fun on the zip line. The 'Bushbuck' can seat 24 at mealtimes so it is a great place for large groups to get together on the farm. Please note; I do not sell alcohol.

Somerset Gift can accommodate a maximum of 25 guests.... however for a group booking of adults/couples that do not want to sleep more than 2 per room, the numbers will be limited to 18.

Fish Eagle lodge

This stunning luxury lodge sleeps 8 or 9 in three large bedrooms all en-suite. Two of the bathrooms have showers and one has a bath. It is ideally suited to sleep two families consisting of 4 adults and 4 kids. One of the bedrooms has four single beds in it, however the beds can be moved around to suite the client. Other options would be three couples or three young families with a small child per family sleeping in their parent's room.

The large lounge and dining room flow onto a huge House and Leisure like undercover furnished patio with a fireplace. The lodge is elevated giving it unsurpassed views of the valley, over water and green pastures finally resting on the majestic softness of the Langeberg mountain. Relax in comfy chairs and watch your kids frolicking in the water below. There is seating for 16 at mealtimes for those occasions when friends and family have booked other cottages on the farm and are joining you for a gathering..... however there is also a little 'pub' on the water for entertaining larger groups or just getting together to braai and watch a rugga game.

The lodge is lovingly furnished with genuine Cape Cottage antiques creating an authentic and relaxed farmhouse atmosphere. The kitchen is fully equipped, there is a large indoor fireplace and outdoor undercover braai. All linen and bath towels are supplied as well as kitchen and bathroom consumables, firewood, blitz, braai grid and tongs. Guests need to bring their own swimming towels. For peace and tranquillity, this really is the ultimate place to unwind with family and friends.

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Property amenities
Free parking
Lazy river
Canoeing
Hiking
Children's playground
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
BBQ facilities
Horseback riding
Fishing
Kids' outdoor play equipment
Picnic area
Room features
Additional bathroom
Fireplace
Seating area
Separate dining area
Separate living room
Kitchenette
Microwave
Walk-in shower
Sofa
Oven
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
Room types
Mountain view
Pool view
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Family
Great View
Languages Spoken
Afrikaans

Location

N 2 Near Sparrenbosch, Swellendam 6740 South Africa
Traveller rating
  • 181
  • 39
  • 2
  • 2
  • 3
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Detailed Reviews
Victoria H wrote a review Jul 2023
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
An incredible stay!
Lots to do with kids and many stoep views for the parents who want to relax. Unfortunately we didn't get to experience the waterfall hike as the river came up quite high after the rain so it was too difficult to cross. We went along the hilltop walk which was lovely.
The zip line is a huge plus if you have brave kids!! There are canoe's available for your free usage.
Beds are comfy, bathroom amenities are tastefully done, cottage was warm (we stayed in Olive) and the hot tub was glorious. There is an undercover outdoor braai and an inside fireplace.
This is an all season spot to visit.
The drinking water is from the mountain so they provide normal bottled drinking water at no extra cost for those who prefer.
I think the next time we visit we will get a group together and stay in one of the larger houses which look incredible!
Thank you Marlien for an unforgettable stay and thank you Tanya for taking good care of us.
Ps if you are a keen bird watcher, you'll love this spot. My favourite bird find for our stay was the brown-hooded kingfisher! Such a treat! They were very busy outside the front of our cottage!
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Marlien Wright, Owner at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
Responded 19 Jul 2023
Beautiful review, thank you so much. Come visit us again soon
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Cruiser12920215509 wrote a review Sept 2024
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Somerset Gift has an immensely special place in our hearts so when we had to agree on a wedding venue - it was a no brainer (even though we knew this is NOT a wedding venue and we'll need to arrange it all ourselves).

The farm is picture perfect which made for amazing wedding photographs and videos, the Manor House and other cottages (we rented Manor House, Rose Cottage and Olive Cottage) are large enough, clean and comfortable with everything we needed which ensured we were able to have a 4 day wedding venue where everyone, including family and friends from as far as Namibia and Gauteng felt comfortable, relaxed and in close enough proximity to share meals and make memories.

Both Tanya and Marlien are exceptionally accommodating and supportive and Marlien shared a list of vendors previously used to give us a starting point. Tanya, in true Tanya-form checked in daily and supported in her usual problem-solving attitude for anything we needed (with an added hug to moms feeling the moment of their babies getting hitched as well as the dogs, as and when needed - money can't buy the 'heart' that goes into everything she does - the truest Gift of Somerset Farm).

Whether you're considering Somerset for a quick getaway, long-stay, mid-week break or special event, the Farm delivers every time. We've been here in all seasons for various reasons and the only regret we feel every single time, is not being able to stay 'just a little longer'.
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Date of stay: August 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
3.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Marlien Wright, Marketing at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
Responded 04 Sept 2024
Thank you Marelize for your awesome review, we would love the opportunity to host you again.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Fearless68210048769 wrote a review Jul 2023
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Summersetgift get away farm is a jewel not to far from home. Although on a farm is Swellendam closeby. The selfcatering cottage is well equiped and functional. They are situited far enough from each othert to ensure privicy for every one.

The setting is ideal for nature lovers ejoying the outdoors.

The gravel road was well maintained inspite of the recent heavy rains.
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Date of stay: July 2023
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
4.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Marlien Wright, Marketing at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
Responded 04 Sept 2024
Thank you for your awesome review, we would love the opportunity to host you again.
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MikeHallauer wrote a review Dec 2023
Cape Town, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
An absolutely picture perfect magical paradise nestled in a valley below towering mountains. We stayed in Fish Eagle lodge, which is situated on the elevated slope with unsurpassed views down the valley and overlooking the mountains. The lodge was spacious and well appointed with private ensuite bedrooms and very large central living area and wrap-around verandah to enjoy the views and peace and quiet. The hot tub was also a welcome delight. Lovely walk through indigenous forest to the waterfall pools, but keep dogs on a leash to avoid altercations with the resident baboon troop!
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Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Marlien Wright, Marketing at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
Responded 04 Sept 2024
Thank you for your awesome review, we would love the opportunity to host you again.
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
RinskeS wrote a review Nov 2020
Cape Town Central, South Africa
2.0 of 5 bubbles
The location and surroundings of Somerset Gift farm are fantastic, we loved the sounds at night. However, during daytime it was not so magic.

Recommended by a friend, we booked the Little Bushbuck Cottage, the only couples cottage on the farm, hoping for a quiet getaway after months of Covid stress. On arrival at 5pm it was difficult for us to reach the cottage because two families with young children were having a picnic right next to the cottage and parked their car there. We have two daughters and love kids but these families were very loud kayaking, running in front of “our” cottage to get to the zipline. This lasted till about 7pm and finally we enjoyed some peace and quiet. The next morning around 07:30am the kids and parents were back, next to our cottage playing with the canoes in the river directly in front of our cottage. We left for the day so they could have some fun. When we arrived back at the farm around 4pm the space in front and next to "our" Little Bushbuck Cottage was again occupied by the same families. They must have realised it was not fair towards us and left within one hour. We were relieved but only for a short time. Another family with young children came to set up camp close to the zipline and the canoes. In addition a family staying in Loerie Cottage came out to play with the zipline and canoes. At one stage around 8pm the children were shouting so loud that we could not have a decent conversation and we asked them if they could respect us a bit more.

We were meant to stay 3 days but we left a day early to find a more quiet place. This is not a paradise for all as mentioned on the website. We would recommend that bookings for Little Bushbuck Cottage are managed according to occupancy of other cottages and maybe inform prospective guests that most of the children's activities is next to and in front of this cottage. Alternatively, maybe convert Little Bushbuck Cottage to a family unit and make other more remote cottages suitable for couples who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Last but not least, please note that Little Bushbuck Cottage is basically one step up from camping, personally I think the price per night is a bit too much for that!

We wrote Marlien (the manager of the farm) an email with suggestions and requesting a refund for the last night but she never replied.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2020
1.0 of 5 bubblesValue
2.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
2.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
2.0 of 5 bubblesService
2.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Marlien Wright, Marketing at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
Responded 17 Dec 2020
I'm sorry about your experience being less than perfect, we recommend upgrading next time and choosing Rose Cottage which is very quiet. All the issues you mention are clearly communicated on the website as well as your welcome letter upon booking. Bushbuck is priced very economically according to it's unique features, and most people ;love staying there as it's so well priced and is right on the dam.
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guestgA6589HM wrote a review Apr 2023
Rawsonville
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
A great welcome wall when we arrived at Bushbuck cottage. The cottage has all that you need for your stay including a gas oven and stove, fire place inside, bathroom, living area, beds and all kitchen items. We loved our stay with the river, mountains and cows just across from the cottage. and a zipline and canoes. The baboons made an appearance here and there near the house as nature is but weren't any trouble- just keep food inside if you are.
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Date of stay: March 2023
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Marlien Wright, Owner at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
Responded 16 May 2023
Loved hosting you guys, come visit again soon
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
AndreaK1985 wrote a review Jan 2024
Cape Town, South Africa
4.0 of 5 bubbles
The setting is absolutely magical, unbeatable! We went as a family of 4, and the farm is very well suited to kids of all ages. All activities are easily accessible - you can take a quick walk down to the river to fish, the horses and cows are nearby, and the swimming area including the canoes and zip line are right in front of the cottages.

We stayed in Olive cottage - while it has all the basic amenities you need, it is more rustic than I was expecting. The space is quite small and dark, and we found the beds in both rooms to be very uncomfortable. All linen and towels are also very worn and in need of an update.

Overall we had a fantastic stay, and the views and farm charm outweigh the underwhelming accommodation.
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Date of stay: January 2024
3.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
4.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Marlien Wright, Marketing at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
Responded 04 Sept 2024
Thank you for your awesome review, we would love the opportunity to host you again.
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Inez L wrote a review Sept 2024
4.0 of 5 bubbles
My family and I loved our weekend getaway at Somersetgift.
We stayed in the Loerie Cottage which has an amazing view of the lake. The cottage was clean, cozy and had all we required. Kids got to run around freely, enjoy the park area and check out some farm animals. Their highlight was canoeing for the first time and relaxing in the hot tub. We were abit sceptical of the zip line and rather didn't attempt due to safety concerns. We also did the mini hike and got to enjoy the beautiful view but would also like to recommend that it has signs or arrows to direct visitors. All in all we had a lovely weekend away and would definitely recommend this peaceful getaway.
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Date of stay: August 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Marlien Wright, Marketing at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
Responded 19 Oct 2024
Thank you for your positive review. we loved hosting you! We look forward to seeing you again on the farm.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Odyssey28860880817 wrote a review Oct 2021
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I could not have picked a more suitable venue for my 60th birthday celebrations. Peaceful, stunning place. We stayed in the Fish Eagle Lodge on the farm. The hike through the indigenous forest to the waterfall was beautiful. I am happy to see the amount of alien clearing that the farm is doing on its property. The wood fired hot tub was a must in the evenings, wine glas in hand, laughing at each other's silly jokes.

I would make one suggestion: the information in the welcome guide at the venue talks about horse riding opportunities and provide contact details for booking a ride. There are horses grazing in front of the farm house, so we naturally thought the riding will take place at the venue. When we booked, it turned out the riding is about 18km from Somerset Gift on another farm. We did not want to leave the beautiful venue to drive somewhere else, since we had only 3 days, and therefore cancelled the booking. I suggest just make it clear in the guide that the riding is at a totally different farm.
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Date of stay: September 2021
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Room Tip: The guest farm offers several farm houses, each with a different setup. Fish Eagle Lodge was...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Marlien Wright, Marketing at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
Responded 07 Oct 2021
Thank you for your lovely review- we will adjust our activity info to warn that it's offsite, thank you!
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Karen wrote a review Jan 2020
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This was our 6th (annual) visit to Somerset Gift and once again it didn't disappoint.
The perfect getaway for the whole family and just a short drive from Cape Town. Children of all ages will enjoy the beautiful setting on the Buffuljags River, surrounded by mountains with trails to waterfalls / natural pools and fairy forests.
We stayed in Loerie this time, like the other cottages we've stayed in before, it was fully equipped, fresh and tasteful (recently painted, with clean towels and crisp white bedding).
We spent most of our time on the covered front stoep - watching the kids playing in the park or the rolling lawns in front of our unit. Loerie also overlooks the bigger of the dams - offering kayaking, fishing (catch and release), swimming or ziplining.

If you are looking for perfect sunsets, star gazing, detoxing from your devices and reconnecting with yourself in nature, look no further.

Owner Marlien Wright and lovely manager Tanya will make your stay unforgettable .
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Date of stay: January 2020
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from MarlienW4, Manager at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
Responded 14 Jan 2020
Dear Karen We always love hosting you and your family. With gratitude and much light, the Somerset Gift team xx
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Manie E wrote a tip Oct 2024
Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa5 contributions1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Don't think twice to make a booking. Go for it. "
Read full review
Stella wrote a tip Sept 2024
George, South Africa1 contribution
4.0 of 5 bubbles
"Water pressure very low, so no long hot showers."
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Colleen Chaplin wrote a tip Sept 2023
Western Cape, South Africa16 contributions2 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"We went in September, so not too hot and I can imagine super hot in summerThe hike to the waterfall is not for the beginner and small children. "
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Réstelle wrote a tip Aug 2023
3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Definitely enquired about the road before your visit , we did but we didn't expect it to be so wet and muddy as we almost got stuck and we drive a SUV. "
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Mascha wrote a tip Feb 2023
Nijmegen, The Netherlands13 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"There is no reception, nor was anyone waiting for us when we arrived. When we checked our cottage, we found all the info we needed. "
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Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Swellendam area.
LOCATION
South AfricaWestern CapeOverberg DistrictSwellendam
NUMBER OF ROOMS
6
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
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SOMERSET GIFT GETAWAY FARM - UPDATED 2025 Lodge Reviews (Swellendam, South Africa)

Frequently Asked Questions about Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
What are some of the property amenities at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free parking, kids activities, and a lazy river.
Which room amenities are available at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, a refrigerator, and an additional bathroom.
What food & drink options are available at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm?
Guests can enjoy barbeque facilities during their stay.
Is parking available at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Somerset Gift Getaway Farm?
Conveniently located restaurants include Paradise Organic, Rolandale Farm Stall & Restaurant, and Oude Post Bistro.
Are pets allowed at Somerset Gift Getaway Farm?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
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