I’ve been invited to experience a stay at one of Canvas Collective Africa’s luxury hotels. Their current summer pop-up is in the picturesque Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, between Hermanus and Caledon and is open for bookings from now until April 30th2023.
This site, situated in a beautiful pine forest on the 300-hectare family-run Glen Oakes Farm, is just a one hour forty-five minutes drive from Cape Town. Founders Samara Stern and Dez Lundy, who both have extensive experience in events and travel, say their latest glamping offering in Hemel-En-Aarde translates as ‘Heaven on Earth,’ and their summer location in this breath-taking, fertile wine valley is just that. Co-Founder Samara Stern says that exclusive sites, fine dining and curated local activities are what the Canvas Collective Africa experience is all about.
This beautiful South African wine region has become an increasingly popular location for a relaxing and heavenly getaway. Hemel-en-Aarde is widely regarded as one of the most exciting wine areas in South Africa and is famed for some of South Africa’s best-producing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wine farms.
The new site in the wine valley is situated in a pine wood forest, which is wind protected and shaded from the sun,” Stern says. The beautifully decorated glass field kitchen restaurant stands at the heart of the camp overlooking the incredible valley, where guests are treated to the finest of dining from the resident chef with all protein produce coming directly from the farm.
Stern says that guests can expect adventurous yet approachable dishes using hyper-locally sourced ingredients, paired with estate wines and locally distilled spirits. The farm dam offers ample opportunity for guests to cool off on hot summer days, where delicious picnic lunches will be served. On-site activities include: stargazing, professional guided walks, beer and bread making, and honey collection/bottling and the neighbouring farms host a world-class wine tasting. Onrus Beach is a short drive away for those seeking a bush/beach experience.
With the use of high-end quality bedding, furnishings, linen and accessories, Canvas Collective Africa has created a unique luxury experience, comparable to that of a boutique hotel. “Guest comfort in our tents is our top priority and a truly luxurious camping experience awaits,” says Stern. As an added treat, breakfast is served daily in bed or if guests prefer, in The Field Kitchen restaurant.
The canvas tents offer the finest luxury: a king-sized comfy bed, off-the-grid generator power, a complimentary bar fridge and an en-suite bathroom with a flushing toilet. Outside the tent, nature watching is the order of the day, as you fall back into armchair cushions and gaze at the magnificent surroundings and at night the star-studded sky.
Whether you are an art lover, a wine enthusiast or an adventurous spirit, you are sure to find something in the area tailored to your particular taste.
The Essential Details
Each Luxury tent sleeps two adults and is priced at an inclusive price starting at R3,450 per person sharing (single rates are available on request). Visit the website or book here or email stars@canvascollectiveafrica.com. Children over the age of eight are also welcome by special arrangements. Unfortunately, no pets are permitted as the camp is erected on a farm that supports ground-nesting birds and other small creatures. The inclusive rate includes accommodation, breakfast, a delicious lunch picnic hamper, high tea, dinner and midnight snacks to enjoy under the stars. All non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages (except premium wines and spirits) are also included.
** The above info and photos were supplied.
