Sometimes the people make the place

By Brian Berkman: contributing editor, travel

16 Aug 2011

Basil and Reinette Keller are spectacular hosts and as open-hearted as their beautiful Empress Proteas in bloom which they grow organically and export far and wide.

They were involved together for 20 years in a property information service. Reinette, previously a ballerina, fell seriously ill and turned to an alkaline diet, whole foods and living in harmony with the earth for her cure.

From a high point in Villiersdorp they farm proteas in rhythm with the earth using biological farming techniques which they and a small group of helpers, cut, package and ship.

Get away from it all - and meet the Kellers.

They have two self-catering cottages on the farm which are charming and decorated in a country style with exposed rafters and timber furniture. This is the sort of place to kick back and enjoy the fresh air and open space and use as a base to explore nearby Franschhoek and the winelands of Bot River and Elgin Valley.

click to enlarge

Protea Cottage is a three bedroomed house with two bathrooms and a separate loo. The kitchen is large and there's a fireplace in the combined lounge and dining room, as well as a patio with braai facilities. It sleeps a maximum of six people.

Celtic Cottage is for a couple or small family as it sleeps a maximum of three people. It has a bathroom with both shower and bath and a separate toilet. Living areas are open-plan. Rates are from R250 per person, per day.

See www.proteapride.co.za or email az.oc.edirpaetorp@ofni or phone +27 (0) 28 840 2369 to book. See also www.thecapecountrymeander.co.za.