Settling in at the De Hoop Cottage, Nieuwoudtville, South Africa

Last updated on March 21st, 2024

We will be staying at the Papkuilsfontein Guest Farm and the flower show continues along the deserted and increasingly more narrow dirt roads between Nieuwoudtville and the farm.

We are staying at the De Hoop Cottage, a charming restored farmhouse with broad views over the veld.

It reminds me of an Irish cottage, a feeling that intensifies as we settle into the cottage, which is at once simple, rustic, and cozy.

The views, however, don’t seem particularly Irish. They are, however, a wonderful incentive to get out and explore while the light is still bright and beautiful.

Once dusk falls, we head back inside, lighting the lamps and settling in for the evening. Not far beyond our windows the dassies play on a rocky outcrop. Their antics provide ample amusement.

Just as it gets dark, our dinner arrives, a multi-course gourmet version of South African farmhouse cooking. We linger over our meal; the food is absolutely delicious and there is enough for many more guests, which causes us to continue eating “just another taste!” far longer than we should.

Outside the Milky Way glows amid unfamiliar stars.