Berghoff-fynbos

We have high rainfall in the winter months, and occasional snow – perfect for a fireplace, red wine and a good book – although sunny winter days are abundant. In summer the sun can be harsh due to the altitude and sunblock is highly recommended.

At an altitude of between 850 and 1000 meters above sea level the farm has a relatively cool Mediterranean climate, with an average rainfall of more than 1100 mm per year. Snow in winter is not uncommon.

The soils are generally sandy, being derived largely from weathered sandstone. A shale ridge adds some localised variability. The farms are founding members of the Groot Winterhoek Conservancy and sustainable use of the environment is therefore a high priority. The area has abundant wildlife, including klipspringers, rheebuck (ribbokke), black eagles, baboons, grysbok, steenbok and elusive leopards.

Guests visit Berghoff entirely at their own risk. This is a commercially operated farm and during the week you may encounter tractors, etc. On the roads. We minimise farming activity in the vicinity of the chalets when they are occupied, but during the week you may hear tractors/spray carts operating in the plantations.

No off-road driving, quad bikes or jet skis permitted. We do not have demarcated 4×4 routes and cannot allow noisy vehicles that disturb other guests.

No picking of flowers in the veld or orchards. Fynbos bouquets in the chalets are yours to keep.

Owners take full responsibility for their dogs at all times. No chasing or hunting of wildlife is permitted under any circumstances. Dogs must be de-flead prior to arrival and are not allowed on any furniture at any time. The guests are responsible for providing their own bedding for their dogs. We remove blankets from the chalets when guests bring dogs along, as we have had tremendous problems with removal of hair from blankets after departure. All beds have duvets but guests with dogs are advised to bring along their own extra blankets.

Fly-fishing using only barb-less hooks, strictly catch-and-release.

Please respect the privacy of other guests. No loud music or other disturbances are permitted.

Fires are to be confined to the built-in patio-braai or fireplaces in the chalets. A fire can destroy the farm and surrounding area so please be careful, especially in hot and windy conditions.

The dam can be used at your own risk. We have had no accidents to date and the dam is safe for boating and swimming. However, a dam is always a potential hazard. Please stay away from the pump house and suction pipe at the southern end of the dam.

The use of firearms and firecrackers is strictly prohibited.

Please do not litter. Bins are provided in and outside each chalet, and if you are out for a walk please bring your litter back with you.