On a family-owned farm dating back to 1790 is one of the most exciting openings of the year in the Cape winelands. Bosjes – Dutch for ‘small bushes’ – opened its doors in March 2017 in the scenic Breedekloof, a valley little more than an hour’s drive from Cape Town.

This corner of the Cape winelands is experiencing something of a renaissance, and Bosjes is a striking new addition to the region. At the heart of the estate is Die Skuur, a stylish five-bedroom guesthouse framing a private pool and entertainment area.

Although rooms can be booked individually, Die Skuur is ideally suited for intimate weddings, celebrations or multi-generational family escapes. Interior décor is by acclaimed designer Liam Mooney, who infuses a healthy touch of modernity into the heritage-inspired space.

A few steps from Die Skuur – past manicured gardens and trellised vineyards just starting to fill out – is the highlight of the estate for day visitors: Bosjes Kombuis. Chef Kim Cox worked with consultant chef Pete Goffe-Wood to whip together a lunch menu that is both country-inspired and contemporary, with plenty of the flourishes we’ve come to expect from the ‘Kitchen Cowboy’.

The Kombuis is a modern airy space spilling onto spacious lawns, with a large children’s playground a few steps from the terrace. Also look out for the eye-catching ‘Bosjes Tree of Life’ tiled-mural framing the kitchen.

It’s not as eye-catching as the Bosjes chapel though. Architect Coetzee Steyn’s avant-garde creation floats on water and vineyards, and is set to become one of the most talked-about wedding venues in the winelands.

 

by Richard Holmes