Rivergate Guest Farm

Authentic Farm Living in the Overberg

Just outside Stanford, Rivergate Guest Farm offers a quintessential South African farm experience with an upmarket twist. Set on 15 acres with the Klein River flowing through the property and stunning views of the Kleinriver Mountains, this working farm combines rustic charm with sophisticated country luxury.

The farm's self-catering accommodation includes seven beautifully appointed cottages, each with private wood-fired hot tubs—a real treat on chilly Western Cape evenings. While the traditional braai facilities are a must for authentic South African evenings, the indoor fireplaces make winter stays especially cozy.

Farm-to-Table Experience

The Barn, the farm's eatery, opens Fridays and Saturdays (10:00-15:00) serving seasonal dishes made with ingredients harvested from their organic gardens. The farm's breakfast baskets, delivered daily to cottages, are a highlight featuring farm-fresh eggs with vibrant orange yolks from the free-roaming chickens.

Local tip: Check their events calendar for the monthly themed Sunday lunches—these special occasions showcase the best seasonal produce and typically book out well in advance.

Garden and Farm Life

The landscaped gardens, designed by renowned South African landscape architect Franchesca Watson, are a standout feature. Guests can stroll through flower beds, picking gardens, vegetable patches and orchards.

Farm animals add to the authentic experience—alpacas, miniature donkeys, chickens, turkeys, sheep, goats, geese and Dexter cattle roam the property. Children particularly enjoy interacting with the animals, though adults find them equally charming.

Exploring the Surroundings

Rivergate Farm sits along the Klein River, where guests can use the farm's canoes and SUP boards. The farm is just 2km from Stanford village and about 23km from Hermanus on the famous Whale Route.

The Stanford Wine Route deserves exploration—Stanford Hills Estate, Misty Mountain Estate, Sir Robert Stanford Estate and Springfontein offer excellent cool-climate wines.

Between June and December, the nearby Walker Bay in Hermanus offers some of the world's best land-based whale watching, with numerous opportunities to see calving Southern Right whales.

Practical Information

• Best time to visit: Year-round, though spring brings wildflowers while winter offers cozy fireside experiences with mountain views
• Booking: Essential for both accommodation and The Barn eatery, especially on weekends
• Not pet-friendly: Due to the farm animals, guests cannot bring pets
• Child-friendly: Children welcome but require supervision due to open water
• Farm shop: Open Fridays and Saturdays for homemade preserves, farm butter, frozen meals and local crafts

For those seeking a farm getaway that doesn't compromise on comfort, Rivergate offers the perfect balance of rural tranquility and refined country living—or as South Africans might say, it's lekker rustig (pleasantly peaceful) with all the luxuries you'd want.