Jan Harmsgat Country House

Jan Harmsgat Country House enjoys an enviable location in a beautiful valley between Swellendam and Ashton in the Klein Karoo.

First established in 1723, the farms original slave quarters have been converted to make four spacious bedrooms, with an adjoining lounge and library. The rooms are comfortably furnished in traditional Overberg style. Two are loft rooms, with panoramic mountain views. This is an owner-run operation, and the present owners, Brin and Judi, are descended from the family which has farmed here for generations.

Previously a wine farm, today the orchards are laden with oranges, nuts and olives. The farm also provides a refuge for a fair amount of indigenous wildlife, such as springbuck, grey rheebuck, ostriches and black wildebeest.

Activities & Facilities

Visit historic Swellendam, relax by the pool, perhaps with a book from the extensive library, explore the 680 hectare farm, or walk in the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains. This is the place to enjoy an authentic South African country experience.

Community

Jan Harmsgat is one of the very few South African guesthouses to have been awarded certification as a Fair Trade in tourism establishment.  The staff are drawn from the local community, and owners Brin and Judi have established an extensive training programme to equip them to run the guesthouse. In addition, Judi has helped to set up a community project in nearby Swellendam, turning the old jail house into a coffee shop.