De Kombuys Estate

Holiable’s Review of De Kombuys Estate

Getting there

De Kombuys is an agricultural and wine-growing estate located in the Cango Valley, only 30 kilometres from Oudtshoorn, sadly known for its ostrich farms. If you do not have a vehicle, it is possible to ask the hotel staff to arrange a transfer.

Nestled at the foot of beautiful mountains, this hotel is a haven of peace and tranquillity.

A history and strong values

Martin's family owns the estate since 1814. Sad to see such a fertile, abandoned space, he decided five years ago to put the De Kombuys farm back on its feet.

Very much supported by his wife and two children, he was able to restore the various buildings, only asking for help from inhabitants of the neighbouring villages.

De Kombuys has strong values of authenticity, sharing and exclusivity. Here, the customer experience is at the heart of the philosophy, and it is essential to the founder that each guest feels unique.

As an example, the number of rooms, which could be as high as 52 according to local regulations, does not exceed the modest amount of 6.

A complete and ecological offer

One pillar supports another: this drives De Kombuys' offer.

In the beginning, the only activity was the organic farm, set up in 2010.
No pesticides or herbicides are used; nature is king.
Later on, the offer expanded with the creation of an organic vineyard in 2011, offering a selection of 5 100% natural wines.
In 2014 to alleviate the potential economic problems of managing this vineyard, Martin created, six modern and pleasant lodges with natural swimming pools and powered by renewable energy.
In 2015, the Wagyu beef farm started, based entirely on respect for the animal and the environment in which it evolves.

Last, in 2016, the eco-estate opened its restaurant offering a magnificent view of the mountains, entirely fuelled by the various products from the De Kombuys farm.

A permanent team of 15 people, which can go up to 30 people during busy periods, ensures the smooth running of the estate.

Each employee comes from the neighbouring villages and receives extensive and comprehensive training on arrival.
The idea behind this process? Reduce the very high unemployment rate in the region and not discriminate locals willing to work although they do not have the required training.

Tourism revisited

"We don't own the domain, we just manage it for the guests," says Martin.

The guest experience relies on participative tourism. Everyone is free to enter each building, ask questions, participate in farming or wine-growing tasks, get up close to the cattle and learn about the specific breeding techniques for this type of meat. In this way, it is easier to become aware of the impact of local, responsible and intelligent consumption.

Our opinion

Our stay in this natural and charming setting was a real enchanted interlude. If we had to give one word for this experience, it would be freedom.

Rooms are spacious, very well decorated and have a delightful rainwater pool. The service is impeccable: dishes in the restaurant come with thorough explanations, and the staff is very attentive.

Recommended for: Wine lovers, Organic farming, Nature, Local commerce

Reviewed by our ambassadors Les Consomm'acteurs