Jan Harmsgat Country House
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Summary of reviewsJan Harmsgat Country House is a serene retreat set in a breathtaking location between Robertson and Swellendam, offering guests a picturesque escape amid farm-style historic buildings and lush greenery. The property's central position makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby wineries, while still providing the tranquility of a countryside getaway. Nature walks and vineyard explorations add to the charm, supported by a staff that enhances the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The culinary experiences at Jan Harmsgat are delightful, with breakfast often highlighted for its exceptional quality, providing beautifully plated dishes in a charming Old Cape building setting. Dinner receives glowing reviews, praised for extraordinarily delicious meals like lamb Rogan Josh, supported by great wine and delivered by attentive restaurant staff. While occasional critiques exist, they are minor compared to the overall high standard of the dining offerings.
Rooms at Jan Harmsgat seamlessly blend old-world charm with modern comforts. Guests appreciate the spaciousness, luxurious linen, and tasteful decor, which contribute to a restful stay. The serene environment offers a beautiful escape, complemented by delicious food and excellent facilities. The charming and caring staff ensure guests feel welcomed and pampered, enhancing their overall experience.
Impeccable cleanliness is also a standout feature, with the property consistently praised for its neat and tidy rooms, modern amenities, and well-maintained grounds. The staff, recognized for their exceptional service and friendliness, further enrich the pleasant experience. Overall, Jan Harmsgat Country House delivers a harmonious blend of nature, hospitality, and comfort, making it a destination where guests can unwind and enjoy every aspect of their stay.
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The culinary experiences at Jan Harmsgat are delightful, with breakfast often highlighted for its exceptional quality, providing beautifully plated dishes in a charming Old Cape building setting. Dinner receives glowing reviews, praised for extraordinarily delicious meals like lamb Rogan Josh, supported by great wine and delivered by attentive restaurant staff. While occasional critiques exist, they are minor compared to the overall high standard of the dining offerings.
Rooms at Jan Harmsgat seamlessly blend old-world charm with modern comforts. Guests appreciate the spaciousness, luxurious linen, and tasteful decor, which contribute to a restful stay. The serene environment offers a beautiful escape, complemented by delicious food and excellent facilities. The charming and caring staff ensure guests feel welcomed and pampered, enhancing their overall experience.
Impeccable cleanliness is also a standout feature, with the property consistently praised for its neat and tidy rooms, modern amenities, and well-maintained grounds. The staff, recognized for their exceptional service and friendliness, further enrich the pleasant experience. Overall, Jan Harmsgat Country House delivers a harmonious blend of nature, hospitality, and comfort, making it a destination where guests can unwind and enjoy every aspect of their stay.
Historic Hotel
Located in Swellendam, this country house is steeped in history and offers a glimpse into the region's agricultural heritage. Its architecture and design reflect the Cape Dutch style, providing a unique cultural experience.
Year erected: 1723
What is the history of the property?
JAN HARMSZ SCHAT
In 1674, east of the current town of Bonnievale, on a farm nestled under the towering Langeberg Mountains, Johannes Harman Jansz Potgieter was born.
Johannes married in 1714, and the farm appears on the grant of 1723 as Jan Harmsz Schat (treasure)- from which it was apparently corrupted to Jan Harmsgat. In 1731 we find the grazing rights being granted to a famous hunter, Jacobus Botha. His hunting career was brought to an end a couple of years later, when he shot a lion, and the lioness (which he had not seen) attacked and mauled him, leaving him for dead. Botha recovered but was never able to hunt again and in 1734 Governor de la Fontaine made a freehold grant to Botha, for services rendered, of the farm Jan Harmans Gat that he was then occupying. The farm was described as “vier uur te perd van die dorp Swellendam”
Jacobus Botha lived to the age of 90, dying in 1782, and his 12 sons gave him 190 grandchildren.
The farm is situated along the slopes of the Langeberg, between the mountain and the Breede River. The modern road from Swellendam to Ashton runs along this beautiful valley.
In 1789 the farm passed into the hands of Hermanus Steyn de Jonge. In 1765 he had married the widow Margaretha van Staden, and by the time the farm was occupied by him, he was already a man of some stature in the area. In addition to farming, he also did some Trustee work and sat on the District Council of Swellendam.
In 1795 the farmers of the District rebelled against their Dutch masters, and declared themselves independent of the Cape Government. Hermanus Steyn was chosen as the president of the new republic, which lasted only a short while before the British assumed control of the Cape Colony, and Swellendam again reverted to their original status. Hermanus Steyn lies buried on the farm Jan Harmsgat in a small plot marked by a granite gravestone, which can be seen a few hundred meters from the main house.
A grandson of the old President, Gideon van Zyl, changed the name of the farm to the gentler name of Nooitgedacht. A cousin, one Piet van Eeden, again changed the old building with its three gables under thatch. He removed the upper floors and rebuilt the house with a corrugated iron roof.
The original wine cellar and old slave quarters were retained, but again the thatch was replaced by corrugated iron. This has subsequently been changed back to thatch and is the form in which the buildings now exist.
The wine cellar reminds us of the days when Jan Harmsgat was a large wine farm. The owner of the farm during that time, one F.J. van Eeden was a member of the Legislature, and inherited the farm from old Gideon van Zyl.
One day, while sitting in a meeting of the legislature, he became so angry about a proposed excise duty, that he had all the vineyards cut down, and planted orange trees in their place.
Jan Harmsgat became famous for it’s oranges, which thrived in this climate. Four giant old orange trees, which had been planted by Hermanus Steyn, de Oue, produced wagonloads of oranges for 150 years, but were then cut down by van Eeden, and 5 dozen orangewood chairs made from the timber.
Extracts from:
Geskiedkundige Swellendam. L.L Tomlinson
In the Footsteps Of Lady Anne Barnard - Jose Burman
JAN HARMSZ SCHAT
In 1674, east of the current town of Bonnievale, on a farm nestled under the towering Langeberg Mountains, Johannes Harman Jansz Potgieter was born.
Johannes married in 1714, and the farm appears on the grant of 1723 as Jan Harmsz Schat (treasure)- from which it was apparently corrupted to Jan Harmsgat. In 1731 we find the grazing rights being granted to a famous hunter, Jacobus Botha. His hunting career was brought to an end a couple of years later, when he shot a lion, and the lioness (which he had not seen) attacked and mauled him, leaving him for dead. Botha recovered but was never able to hunt again and in 1734 Governor de la Fontaine made a freehold grant to Botha, for services rendered, of the farm Jan Harmans Gat that he was then occupying. The farm was described as “vier uur te perd van die dorp Swellendam”
Jacobus Botha lived to the age of 90, dying in 1782, and his 12 sons gave him 190 grandchildren.
The farm is situated along the slopes of the Langeberg, between the mountain and the Breede River. The modern road from Swellendam to Ashton runs along this beautiful valley.
In 1789 the farm passed into the hands of Hermanus Steyn de Jonge. In 1765 he had married the widow Margaretha van Staden, and by the time the farm was occupied by him, he was already a man of some stature in the area. In addition to farming, he also did some Trustee work and sat on the District Council of Swellendam.
In 1795 the farmers of the District rebelled against their Dutch masters, and declared themselves independent of the Cape Government. Hermanus Steyn was chosen as the president of the new republic, which lasted only a short while before the British assumed control of the Cape Colony, and Swellendam again reverted to their original status. Hermanus Steyn lies buried on the farm Jan Harmsgat in a small plot marked by a granite gravestone, which can be seen a few hundred meters from the main house.
A grandson of the old President, Gideon van Zyl, changed the name of the farm to the gentler name of Nooitgedacht. A cousin, one Piet van Eeden, again changed the old building with its three gables under thatch. He removed the upper floors and rebuilt the house with a corrugated iron roof.
The original wine cellar and old slave quarters were retained, but again the thatch was replaced by corrugated iron. This has subsequently been changed back to thatch and is the form in which the buildings now exist.
The wine cellar reminds us of the days when Jan Harmsgat was a large wine farm. The owner of the farm during that time, one F.J. van Eeden was a member of the Legislature, and inherited the farm from old Gideon van Zyl.
One day, while sitting in a meeting of the legislature, he became so angry about a proposed excise duty, that he had all the vineyards cut down, and planted orange trees in their place.
Jan Harmsgat became famous for it’s oranges, which thrived in this climate. Four giant old orange trees, which had been planted by Hermanus Steyn, de Oue, produced wagonloads of oranges for 150 years, but were then cut down by van Eeden, and 5 dozen orangewood chairs made from the timber.
Extracts from:
Geskiedkundige Swellendam. L.L Tomlinson
In the Footsteps Of Lady Anne Barnard - Jose Burman
What was the era and/or the architectural style in which the property was built?
1700
Old Victorian Style
Show more...1700
Old Victorian Style
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Jan Harmsgat Country House is Fair Trade Accredited and operates a functional farm that supplies much of the hotel's organic produce. The property includes an on-site nature reserve and implements eco-friendly practices such as recycling, composting, using energy-saving bulbs, and sourcing local and Fair Trade products.
Hotel with Swimming Pool
The country house features a pool in a historic setting near Bonnievale. The combination of charm and relaxation makes it an ideal destination for a tranquil swim.
Outdoor Pool
Location of the pool: Outdoor pool
When is the pool open? All year
Opening hours: 07:00 - 19:00
Show more...Hotel with Parking
Jan Harmsgat Country House offers parking. It is known for its exceptional service and unique atmosphere. It provides a memorable and relaxing stay.
Small Hotel
This secluded country house dates back to 1723 and is located on a fruit and nut farm. It features a terrace overlooking a pecan grove and the Langeberg mountains. The guesthouse has an in-house restaurant, Just Amy.
4-Star Hotel
Located just outside Swellendam, this country house offers elegant and comfortable rooms. The amenities, combined with its tranquil setting, provide a high-quality experience.
Hotel with Outdoor Pool
Features a stunning outdoor pool in a serene country setting, perfect for relaxation. This country house offers a tranquil escape with beautiful views and a focus on providing a memorable outdoor experience.
Boutique-style Hotel
Hotel near Vineyards
Hotel for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Hotel
Romantic Hotel
Business Hotel
Guest Reviews
Nestled in a truly breathtaking setting, Jan Harmsgat Country House offers a serene retreat amid picturesque scenery. The property exudes a timeless charm with its farm-style historic buildings and lush, green surroundings that promise a restful escape. Positioned strategically between Robertson and Swellendam, the country house provides an ideal base for exploring nearby wineries, including those in the Bonnievale, Ashton, and Montagu regions. The presence of a beautiful vineyard, complemented by a pomegranate plantation, adds to the allure of this tranquil countryside spot.
The location strikes a perfect balance, being central enough for convenient exploration while still offering the peace of a country getaway. Despite its proximity to a busy highway, the setting feels like a beautiful oasis designed for relaxation and soul-soothing experiences. Jan Harmsgat Country House is not only a place to unwind but also a fantastic launchpad for those looking to explore and enjoy peaceful nature walks. Its friendly staff contributes to the warm, welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the authentic experience that this country house offers.
Jan Harmsgat Country House offers a breakfast experience that consistently impresses guests with its exceptional quality. The setting for breakfast is described as charming, set within a beautiful Old Cape building that enhances the dining experience. Guests frequently highlight the excellent selection, presentation, and taste of the breakfast fare. From beautifully plated dishes to exquisite omelettes and a variety of delicious options, the breakfast menu caters to diverse palates. Attentive staff, particularly a commendable manager, enhance the overall experience, ensuring a pleasant start to the day. On some occasions, reviews note an average experience, possibly affected by external factors such as power outages, but these instances are rare. Overall, Jan Harmsgat Country House provides a breakfast that is both delightful and memorable, making it a standout aspect of any visit.
Jan Harmsgat Country House offers a dining experience that guests often describe in glowing terms, praising the food as fantastically delicious and of a very high standard. The meals receive accolades for being exceptionally good, with some diners even ranking their dinner among the best they have ever had. The lamb Rogan Josh and evening meals are particularly noted for their high quality and taste.
The staff at the restaurant also contribute positively to the dining experience, adding to the overall enjoyment of diners. While there are occasional critiques about limited options and certain dishes not meeting expectations, such as a sirloin steak with gravy or the toughness of pork belly, these instances are generally outweighed by the positive feedback on the savory and well-prepared dishes. The dining experience at Jan Harmsgat is rounded out by the availability of great wine, enhancing the overall gastronomic experience within this comfortable and welcoming setting.
Jan Harmsgat Country House offers guests an enchanting blend of old-world charm and modern comforts. The rooms are consistently praised for their beauty and luxurious linen, providing a restful night's sleep. Visitors appreciate the spaciousness and tasteful decoration, with many describing the rooms as lovely and enormously large. The combination of modern twists and historical architecture adds to the allure of this country retreat.
Surrounded by picturesque farm settings, the serene environment offers a beautiful escape into nature. Guests often highlight the delicious food and the overall wonderful facilities, making their stay memorable. The staff, notably mentioned as charming and caring, contribute significantly to the experience, ensuring that guests feel welcomed and pampered throughout their visit.
While some mention road noise and occasional issues with cleanliness, these seem to be minor distractions in an otherwise idyllic setting. Overall, Jan Harmsgat delivers a comfortable and charming retreat where guests can unwind and enjoy the harmonious blend of nature and hospitality.
Jan Harmsgat Country House is highly praised for its impeccable cleanliness and well-maintained property. Guests consistently find the rooms to be clean, modern, and well-appointed, contributing to a comfortable stay with very comfortable beds. The facility overall is recognized as neat and tidy, with well-kept and spacious grounds free from litter. The property is set in a breathtaking environment, adding to its charm and appeal. In addition to the immaculate cleanliness, the hotel offers delicious breakfast and dinner options, complemented by a stunning dining experience at their restaurant. Friendly staff members enhance the pleasant experience at this tranquil location.
At Jan Harmsgat Country House, the staff truly elevates the experience with their exceptional dedication and warmth. The team, including individuals like Mazanne, Jaco, Leandra, Gerda, and Nolene, showcases a blend of creativity, friendliness, and professionalism that leaves a lasting impression. Providing fantastic service from the moment guests arrive, the staff exudes a welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel at home in the beautiful setting. Their attentive approach ensures that any guest needs are met promptly, whether it’s assisting with room arrangements or delivering outstanding service in the restaurant. The competence and responsiveness of the staff are consistently praised, contributing significantly to the peaceful and friendly ambiance of the country house. Overall, the staff at Jan Harmsgat are recognized as a standout element, enhancing every aspect of the guest experience with their friendly and helpful nature.
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Location
The location strikes a perfect balance, being central enough for convenient exploration while still offering the peace of a country getaway. Despite its proximity to a busy highway, the setting feels like a beautiful oasis designed for relaxation and soul-soothing experiences. Jan Harmsgat Country House is not only a place to unwind but also a fantastic launchpad for those looking to explore and enjoy peaceful nature walks. Its friendly staff contributes to the warm, welcoming atmosphere, enhancing the authentic experience that this country house offers.
Breakfast
Dinner
The staff at the restaurant also contribute positively to the dining experience, adding to the overall enjoyment of diners. While there are occasional critiques about limited options and certain dishes not meeting expectations, such as a sirloin steak with gravy or the toughness of pork belly, these instances are generally outweighed by the positive feedback on the savory and well-prepared dishes. The dining experience at Jan Harmsgat is rounded out by the availability of great wine, enhancing the overall gastronomic experience within this comfortable and welcoming setting.
Rooms
Surrounded by picturesque farm settings, the serene environment offers a beautiful escape into nature. Guests often highlight the delicious food and the overall wonderful facilities, making their stay memorable. The staff, notably mentioned as charming and caring, contribute significantly to the experience, ensuring that guests feel welcomed and pampered throughout their visit.
While some mention road noise and occasional issues with cleanliness, these seem to be minor distractions in an otherwise idyllic setting. Overall, Jan Harmsgat delivers a comfortable and charming retreat where guests can unwind and enjoy the harmonious blend of nature and hospitality.
Cleanliness
Staff
Yes, Jan Harmsgat Country House has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Outdoor Pool. For more information, read the answers to the Pool questionnaire
No, a spa isn't available at Jan Harmsgat Country House.
No, Jan Harmsgat Country House doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Jan Harmsgat Country House.
No, Jan Harmsgat Country House doesn't have a gym.
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