Five-star Jan Harmsgat Country House offers bed and breakfast accommodation in the heart of South Africa's Winelands region in the South West Cape.

Jan Harmsgat 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 is available.

The indulgence does not stop with the accommodation but is carried throughout your experience. With renowned chef, Lena Vergotini, creating her 5-course dinner menu, every guest is sure to be filled with delight.

Accommodation at Jan Harmsgat Country House can be found in 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, private courtyard overlooking the orchard and situated next to the salt-water pool.

The Wine Cellar (Luxury room): The original wine cellar with meter thick walls, thatch roof and original doors, still boast an impressive wine collection. The building has been restored to its original glory and exudes the magic of yesteryear.

Van Eeden House (Luxury rooms): 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.

Famous for our artisan cheese making, preserves, and orchards, Jan Harmsgat provides an award winning dining experience. Our Head Chef has been serving Jan Harmsgat guests for the past 16 years. With her sister, Susan, by her side, the kitchen creates dishes that deserve the national recognition they repeatedly receive.

All overnight guests are treated to a Jan Harmsgat Breakfast, which includes fresh fruit parfait topped with homemade muesli and yogurt, followed by hot breakfast of their choice, fresh squeezed juice and fresh brewed coffee or tea.

Lunch and dinner menus changes frequently as the kitchen utilizes fresh produce grown in its own garden. Diners are sure to be pleased with choices such as rack of lamb, seared tuna, aged beef fillet, or our famous kudu fillet. All pastas are hand made and salad is picked fresh daily. It is often said dessert should be eaten first, for it is not to be missed. Pecan pie is a specialty made with the organically grown pecans from the farm and topped with homemade ice cream from the dairy.

Steeped in nearly three centuries of pastoral history, the Western Cape has a rich heritage, and while its original settlers have long since moved on, their spirit is still evident. Many of the vineyards, currently undergoing a revival, produce some of South Africa's finest wines. Distinctive blends from all the noble cultivars and classic styles may be sampled and most farms readily welcome visitors for wine tasting.

You're in the heart of the South West Cape: the Robertson Wine Route, Montagu (with its hot mineral springs), the Breede River, Bontebok Park, Cape Agulhas, the De Hoop Nature Reserve (offering exceptional whale-watching in season), and the delightful town of Swellendam itself, the third oldest town in South Africa, and well worth exploring. The region offers a vast array of pleasurable pursuits to suit all tastes, within a concentrated area.

If not experiencing the Western Cape's many fascinating historical attractions, stunning views and fine wining & dining, the following recreational activities are all on offer at Jan Harmsgat Country House:

• Wine Cellar and Tasting
• Hiking
• Bird Watching
• Swimming Pool
• Backland Drives
• Horseback Riding
• Trips down the Breede River
• Watch cheese being made on the farm
• Bike Riding
• Bocce Ball
• Croquet
• Relax in the Lounge.

Rack rates are quoted p.p. per night and inclusive of breakfast, 14% VAT and bed levies. These rates may however be subject to change without notification. Rates are also different for high and low seasons.

Please enquire about frequent special offers.