This is what an escape to FARMHOUSE at 58 near Krugersdorp in the Cradle of Humankind is about – getting in touch with nature and yourself. There is no reason to travel too far from Johannesburg.
The property is relatively new, and many of the ideas are still in development, but the spaces all promote the notion of getting closer to nature and getting to know you.
The day of our arrival was another example of the type of experiences at FARMHOUSE. It is not your average destination. Our short sunset hike (probably 4-5km) was far from a regular one. Guide Lesego Mapeka from Epic Hikes lingered at various spots not only to soak up the scenery but also to chat about thought-provoking questions. The group contemplated several concepts included life and death. It was suiting since it was in the location where life itself is said to have begun.
Art is also a central theme on the property. The destination of our sunset walk was the Sun(W)hole, a giant sculpture on top of a koppie. Designed by Moroccan artist Amine El Gotaibi, the artwork represents a borderless Africa. It slowly disintegrates and weathers away, becoming part of nature once again. We discussed the notion of impermanence.
This concept also crept into the accommodation style – which is very simple and rough yet ultra-comfortable. In Japanese aesthetics, the style is better known as wabi-sabi, a concept centred around incompleteness, roughness and simplicity. It reiterates that nothing is permanent. Even the furniture was repurposed from previous projects instead of purchasing new items.
The food during our stay was delicious. The menu is ever-changing to fit in with the availability of local farmers and suppliers. There were plenty of choices for the three-course dinner during our visit. I had a carrot and tahini soup for starters; beef stew with creamy polenta for mains and a generous portion of apple crumble for dessert. Breakfast was spicy Mexican beans with guacamole, salsa, and cheese, topped with an egg.
The property is down the road from the Nirox Sculpture Park, where you will leave your car during your visit. The Farmhouse at 58 takes you away from it all. There won’t be any vehicles parked at Farmhouse during your stay. It is the perfect spot for realignment.
The future of the development, known as Project58, includes villas, a fitness centre, vegetable and fruit gardens, greenhouses and more. Curiocity Africa hosted me on this trip. It is an initiative that aims to share authentic experiences with visitors.
Want to find out more? Visit www.farmhouse58.co for more information, or have a look at www.58.life for more details on the project. Find them on Facebook and Instagram.
Written by and images by René De Klerk.
