Jan Harmsgat Guest Farm has seen a renaissance that captures its rich past, in a way that fits in with the discerning traveler’s needs: Space, charm and an unsurpassed opportunity to indulge in an authentic country ambience and history. Guests are treated to understated elegance and comfort, combining the power of its original meter thick walls, yellowwood details, and authentic "Overberg" style while every modern convenience available. The indulgence does not stop with the accommodation but is carried throughout your experience. With renowned chef, Lena Vergotine, creating her 5-course dinner menu, every guest is sure to be filled with delight.
This exclusive country house is on an historic, working wine, fruit, dairy and game farm, situated between the towns of Swellendam and Ashton on the R60, at the foot of the mighty Langeberg Mountains. Granted as a "freehold farm" in 1723, the historically significant Jan Harmans' schat "Jan Harmans Treasure" featured in the writings of Lady Anne Barnard.
Jan Harmsgat is registered and has been awarded the Fair Trade in Tourism S.A Trademark.
Accommodation
Accommodations can be found in the three separate buildings; The Original Wine Cellar (main house) The Slave Quarters and Van Eeden House. Each with its distinctive style and history, Jan Harmsgat tells its story:
The Slave Quarters (Standard Rooms)
Cape Dutch Style building, originating in 1723, with beautiful thatch roof has been painstakingly redone to combine authentic historical atmosphere with modern comforts of today. Two communal lounges, honor bar, private courtyard overlooking the orchard and situated next to the salt-water pool.
Wine Cellar (luxury)
The original wine cellar with meter thick walls, thatch roof and original doors, still boast an impressive wine collection. The building has been lovingly restored to its original glory and exudes the magic of yesteryear.
Van Eeden House (luxury)
This beautiful house was built in the 1800’s. Adjacent from the main building, Van Eeden House has newly built suites with private entrances, top of the line fittings and plush furnishings
Food – Restaurant 1723
Our in-house restaurant serves fine dining in magical atmosphere. From handmade pasta, fresh garden greens, aged beef and delectable desserts, diners are sure to be wowed. Guest can enjoy selecting wine from the cellar as well a large selection of fine whiskeys and liqueurs. We serve delicious breakfast, lunch and four course dinner in the original wine cellar building or outside, weather permitting. Dinner (In-house) guests meet in the original wine cellar beforehand for cocktails in the cocktail lounge, under thatch. An extensive wine list is also available, the wines being stored in the original wine fermentation tank beneath the main dining area.
Activities offered on the property
Relax at the 14-metre pool set in a citrus orchard, or enjoy a trip through the 680-hectare “Backlands” to see indigenous wildlife, dairy, fruit orchard, vineyard and cheese making.
Activities nearby
Ideally located to enjoy the Robertson wine valley; wine tasting, the small town of Montagu (hot springs) and Barrydale in the little Karoo, Agulhas, the most southern tip of Africa, Breede river mouth, and a wide range of nature reserves. Great whale watching from de Hoop nature reserve, day walks in the mountains or visit the nearby Bontebokpark and Drostdy Museum in Swellendam (3rd oldest town in SA).