The Drakensburg mountains take your breath away. Magnificent craggy shapes that change their colour through the day and seasons. In winter they are  often covered in snow. They are home to interesting flora and fauna, ancient San cave paintings, and walking experiences for all.

It’s a setting appropriate to the farm of Glentowy, which lies outside the rural town of Underberg. Pick up some delicious homemade goodies in the local town on your way. You know you’re close when you cross the little bridge and wind along the road next to the Umzimkulu River. The Great River, the Umzimkulu, flows through crystal clear pools bursting  into rapids, then collecting again into wide deep pools..  As you slow down on the track, the sounds of the farm begin to call: the river rushing, wind in the trees, Guinea Fowl and Hadadas vying for volume, and frogs at mid-base calling to their partners.

The River frames the farm. 

A sweep of lawn and clusters of gardens lead up from the river to the homestead. The deepest offering that  Glen Towy makes is peace.  Set on a hundred acres protected by a mountain behind the dwellings and the river in front, it is a place to slough off your city skin, to soak in the tranquillity and total privacy of this sanctuary. 

Inside the main homestead, the generous spaces draw you into their comfort and elegance.  Architect Johan Slee has carefully considered all the details that make the indoor spaces responsive to the outside. Before settling for the evening meal, watch the sky moving across the landscape.

The big open log fire is lit when the chill moves in, warming the dining room on one side and the sitting room on the other. The gardens are generous and lovely.