Property Details
The Tankwa - another world, another place. A soul-space-place …
Situated on the eastern slopes of the Swartruggens Mountains, in the planet’s most biodiverse arid biome – a 2 567ha gem!
An opportunity to escape to a lifestyle where you dictate the pace - to commune with nature, to discover the hidden wonders of this semi-desert realm - offering rare bird- and plant species, expansive, breathtaking starlit skies and infinite space which makes for peace, tranquillity and absolute privacy!
The ultimate off-the-beaten-track getaway, OR getaway and stay to continue and expand the farming activities already established (see detail below). Also ideal for homesteading and eco-tourism – mecca for birders and botanists.
If you long for an alternative lifestyle, far removed from the confines and mayhem of city life, look no further!
DETAIL:
FARM SIZE: 2 567 hectares - approximately 20% flat sandy scrubland, the rest mountainous quartzite slopes and rocky outcrops – veldt in excellent condition (seldom found in the Tankwa).
HOME: 130 m². This humble abode – originally a well-constructed two-room ‘Hartbeesthuisie’, with 500mm thick stone walls, now consists of: Living area with fireplace, rudimentary kitchen, three bedrooms and one bathroom. Extensions to the original structure need work and roof replaced/repaired – all in liveable condition – ‘pioneer style’.
SHED adjoining home – 140m²
WATER – 4 x boreholes, only two in use. Perennial fresh water spring in the Matjesfontein Kloof approximately 2km from the dwelling. Plus delightful streams and waterfalls in the kloofs during the rainy season.
RAINFALL: 137 – 221mm per annum.
ELECTRICITY/HEATING: Solar, wood, coal and gas.
No Cell reception – internet/Wi-Fi available (Herotel great in the area – satellite also available).
FARMING ACTIVITIES: Plantation of approximately 400 young Olive Trees – various cultivars – current yield enough for personal pantry and gifts.
Productive veggie and herb garden – tunnel and outdoors – for personal use and owners sell to Africa Burn before and during their annual festival. Llist of successful crops available on request – large variety. All produce grown using organic farming principles – no pesticides or herbicides used.
Hoodia (Cape Nature permit required to grow, harvest and sell) – sells sundried chips to select buyers.
SUCCULENTS: Endemic succulents grown (small scale) - always in demand.
WILDLIFE – small species inhabitants, and large species traverse the farm from time to time. Identified thus far, Gemsbok, Grey Rhee Buck, Steenbok, Mountain Zebra, Klipspringer, Kudu, African Wild Cat, Scrub Hare, Caracal, as well as numerous interesting birds and reptiles. Part of the Cape Leopard’s territory, this beautiful, shy and elusive cat also traverses the farm occasionally.
FLORA – a veritable kaleidoscope and spectacular display of flowers in season – large variety.
ICONIC FARM STALL: Approximately 20km from the farm is the world-renowned Tankwa Padstal, where a cold beer and wonderfully excentric company prevail – the latter ‘endemic’ to the Tankwa. Also on hand when the cupboard is bare, some snacks, basic/canned food, and light meals. Another one-of-a-kind experience loved by all!
DISTANCES: 20km to Tankwa Padstal, 100km to Ceres, 137km to Sutherland, 216km to Calvinia, 240km to Cape Town.
No security issues and no land claims.