THE VALLEY OF THE RAINBOW Country Estate and Nature Reserve. Stofberg. Dullstroom
Driving to Valley of the Rainbow, I already had a feeling that I was going to be greeted by something very special.
Being in the throws of winter I was afraid that the dryness would taint this stunning place in a way. Man, was I in for a surprise!!
As one enters the Valley of the Rainbow, it’s like entering a different world. Although still dry with very little leaves on the trees, it is so clear that winter has its own beauty, especially in this part of the world.
Being a trout fly fishing hot-spot and so popular with fly fisherman, Valley of the Rainbow is a secret paradise.
Surrounded by magnificent trout dams, a year round flowing river, the farm of Witpoort is also home to the World famous Witpoort Water Mill. (a whole history all of it’s own, which I will write about soon soon J ).
The accommodation offered is as varied as the terrain. There is The Manor House, The Tented Chalets, Country house and The Wood Cabin Luxury Chalets.
The manor house has 5 massive, classically decorated on suite rooms, all with views over the stunning gardens, the mill and the trout dams. Added to this is a very large lounge and bar area with a huge open fireplace where fires are lit throughout the winter months. A relaxing place where guests can sit and read or play board games or watch TV while having a quite drink at the bar. The tented Chalets are all self-catering and all overlook the stunning trout fishing dams. Spacious, simply decorated tents on stilts and wooden decks. All have their own bathroom and shower at the back of the tents.
The Country House consists of 5 massive bedrooms with on-suite bathrooms and has the ambiance of an old ranch house in the Wild West, with a ‘stoep’ all the way round. Also a self-catering place, with a massive fully equipped kitchen and dining room – open plan with large wooden doors going out onto a beautifully manicured garden, which meanders down to the river.
Then there are the Wooden Cabin Luxury Chalets. Set in the “forest”, these chalets are the epitome of luxury. Each set within the dense trees and close to the river, they offer a peaceful retreat. All open plan with a separate toilet, the chalets have their own fully equipped modern kitchen, a lovely fire-place with neatly and stylishly upholstered high back chairs around the fireplace.
The decks are furnished with wooden furniture that add to the forest feeling of the location. All meals are served in the spacious dining area, where, I can confirm, I had one of the best dinners ever. A five course meal delicately prepared by Chef Joseph. Seriously…one of the best!!
Herman has confirmed that Rainbow of the valley is going to be the most awesome venue for photographic and artists retreat. I’m going to be one of the artists with a front row seat!
For those who cannot wait, you can read all about the history of this mill at http://www.hydro4africa.net/za/westminster.html or on Valley of the Rainbow’s website www.rainbowvalley.co.za
