Frequently asked questions
How can we help?
Arrival & Departure
Arrival is from 15:00 and check out is 10:00. Early check in and late check out are more than welcome if there are no other guests checking in or out. Please contact Julian via WhatsApp prior to arrival to request a change in time.
Please pay a 50% deposit at time of booking to secure your booking, and please settle the remainder prior to arrival. There are also card facilities available on the farm.
This can all be done on the website by clicking here, and only website bookings are accepted, as there is a first come first served policy. No email enquiries can be booked manually as we use an online booking system.
Not at this stage no.
The cottages at Underhill are designed to minimise the footprint on the land and environment and as such there is limited extra space. As such the two 4 sleeper cottages are not suited for extra adults.
The 2 sleeper cottages do have a day bed that can sleep an extra person with prior arrangement with Julian.
At this stage Underhill does not allow camping.
Amenities
Yes. Your dogs (and there have been birds and cats) are most welcome. Each cottage has a private enclosed garden with a fence for your dogs to roam and not be able to escape.
But please no dogs on furniture or beds. If your dogs are used to being on the furniture, please bring throws or blankets to protect the furniture from fur and scratches.
The farm is popular with Dog owners, so please use the same discretion when walking your dogs around the farm as you would in a local park, bearing in mind there may be other guests with dogs, or who are not fond of dogs. Please also note that the local black and white cat Artemis is not fond of dogs and may make a show of force if they come too close.
Yes – Underhill farm is blessed to be supplied from a local dam that has had sufficient capacity even during the harshest drought. 20l of drinking water from the Franchhoek pass is supplied for drinking / or there are 5 stage reverse osmosis water filter taps at 2 of the cottages (Hobbit Hollow and Willow cottage).
Yes – The is solar powered, with a back up to Eskom if it is overcast or raining. There is also a battery bank that will provide power during load-shedding, so you should never be without electricity.
No. High quality linen is provided for your comfort. Should there be excessive stains or damage that cannot be cleaned, you may be liable for replacement.
Bed linen, one bathroom towel per person, as well as a fully equipped kitchen with fridge, microwave and dishwasher, braai area and stove and hob are included in each cottage (with the exception of Rivendell and Willow that only has a hob). Please bring towels for the pool, as well as all food, condiments, and drinks.
No, outside activities and star watching as well as cards or board games are encouraged.
No, all cottages have a single shared bathroom.
The cottages are all self-catering and fully equipped kitchens are provided.
None due to guidelines from COVID-19..
For stays exceeding 4 days, yes laundry facilities can be arranged – please pre arrange with Julian via email or whatsapp.
Yes – There are wifi routers in each cottage and strong wifi to allow remote working within reason.
The Cottages
Yes – The tap water is dam water that has been treated and is safe to drink. There is also 20l rain water supplied to each cottage. Please bring your own extra water should you wish.
Yes – every cottage has its own stoep and undercover braai area (with the exception of Oak cottage where there is a weber and braai tongs and grids are included.
Yes – every cottage has its own indoor fireplace.
Yes – every cottage has been very carefully designed so you have your own space and no cottage can be seen from any other cottage window or stoep. Also, as the cottages all point away from each other noise from one cottage does not carry to another.
Yes every cottage has its own pool. The Rivendell pool is a 5,000 litre jojo tank that has been converted into a plunge pool, and the swimming spot at Hobbit Hollow is a rock pool in the Botrivier.
The hot water is gas powered and the gas geyser is powered by batteries. Whilst these are checked regularly it is possible that the gas may run our or the batteries are flat. If you don’t have hot water, please let Julian know and it will be rectified.
Please help with recycling with putting clean plastic, glass and metal in the crates provided. Please also put aside leftover food scraps so they can be put on the compost heap (under the old oak tree by the lower farm). Otherwise all other rubbish is taken to the local rubbish dump in Villiersdorp. Please help minimising the rubbish that gets dumped by recycling as much as possible.
Each cottage has a septic tank. Please do not throw anything other than toilet paper down the toilet and please do not bring any harsh chemicals, cleaners or bleach to the farm.
In your own cottage, stoep and private river side chill area – yes. As no cottage overlooks another the noise travels away from the other cottages so you won’t bother or be bothered by other parties. Please be respectful of others in the open areas of the farm.
The Location
Cell phone signal is poor, but there is a strong Wi-Fi network.
Yes absolutely. The farm is remote and 18km from the nearest town which makes it private, secluded and secure.
Yes – there is a forest path that starts in the middle of the farm by the solar array, that has a easy walk along the Botrivier going to the left back to the farm entrance at the van der Stel pass entrance and the path to the right goes up into the mountains (please ask Julian for directions). The van der Stel pass is very popular with cyclists with the pass winding down the valley to Botrivier.
The farms next door to Underhill are private residences and not accessible, however you can walk the Botrivier trail.
The streams on either side of the farm are not stocked with fish, but Theewaters sports club is a half hour drive from the farm and offers a range of water activities.
Yes – Eerste Hoop wine farm is next door and can arrange wine tastings by prior booking. Please contact Julian via mail or WhatsApp prior to arrival to book.
We are also located at the beginning of the Botrivier wine route (which heads down the scenic van der stel Pass towards Botrivier and along the N2 and on the other side towards Hermanus.
See https://www.botriverwines.com/estates/ for details about the various wine farms.
Yes, in the open fields it can get very hot, but Underhill farm is blessed to be situated between two streams which are forested and shade the cottages and provide cooling breezes. In addition, each cottage has its own plunge pool for relaxing in in summer. So, the cottages and surrounds remain cool even on the hottest of days.
Yes, into the minus degrees at night. However, each cottage has a wood fireplace to keep you warm, and all the cottages are well insulated to keep in the heat and extra blankets are supplied.
Outside Grabouw, the most popular place is Peregrines, and the Elgin Railway Market is a must visit with dozens of food stalls, curios and the steampunk design in the old warehouse – check online for opening times.
In Botrivier The Shunting Shed makes fantastic burgers and pizzas, and the Botrivier Hotel in the town square is a must see.
Further afield there are the tourist towns of Hermanus and Franschhoek.
Yes – The dirt road past the farm (van der Stel Pass) is in excellent condition and the road to the farm is also in excellent condition with the road up and down the hill paved so you don’t get stuck if it is raining.
Underhill farm is less than 100km from Cape Town and can be accessed via the N2 over Sir Lowries pass via Grabouw, or the N1 over the Franschhoek pass through Franschhoek.
You can access detailed directions here or use Google Maps – Please note that if you use Google maps you need to make sure the route takes you down Van der Stel Pass. Sometimes Google maps uses inaccessible farm roads if you are coming from the coast.
Things to do in the area
Activities and Adventures Nearby
Van der Stel Pass:
Just an hour outside of Cape Town, the Van der Stel Pass offers a scenic journey between Botrivier and Villiersdorp. The drive takes you past Theewaterskloof Dam and through picturesque landscapes filled with wildflowers, birdlife, and vineyards. Discover the history of the pass and its namesake, Governor Willem Adriaan van der Stel. Be sure to explore the beautiful Bot River Lagoon wetland, home to numerous waterfowl and a herd of wild horses.
Cycle the Van der Stel Pass from Underhill to Botrivier, rewarding yourself for a 20km cycle with a snack and drink at the Botrivier Hotel or Shuntin Shed.
Cape Overberg Beaches:
While the Cape Overberg is renowned for its mountains and fynbos, it also boasts some stunning beaches. Visit the coastal town of Hermanus (60 km away), known for whale-watching and excellent beaches such as Onrus Beach (53 km) and Grotto Beach (64 km away). Nearby, Pringle Bay Beach (71 km away) and Betty’s Bay Beach (63 km away) provide serene, less crowded alternatives. Kleinmond Beach (48 km away) offers Blue Flag status and an array of watersports and whale-watching opportunities. Don’t forget to explore Cape Agulhas (113 km away), the southernmost tip of Africa, and enjoy its unique beaches.
Cape Whale Coast Region:
Witness the annual migration of whales along the Cape Whale Coast, 106 km away, known for its incredible whale-watching opportunities between June and November. Learn about the Southern Right Whale, Humpback Whale, and Bryde’s Whale. Explore towns like Hermanus, Gansbaai, and De Kelders, which offer some of the best land-based whale watching in the world. Join the Hermanus Whale Festival and enjoy a spectacular celebration of these magnificent creatures.
Elgin Valley Wine Estates:
Discover the Elgin Valley, an area celebrated for its cool climate and fertile soil. This region is not only famous for its fruit orchards but also for its vineyards and olive groves. Spend a day exploring wine farms, such as Arumdale (35 km away), Beaumont (28 km away), Oak Valley Wines (36 km away), and more. Enjoy wine tastings, cellar tours, and the opportunity to purchase wines directly from the farms.
Nature Walks, Hiking Trails, and Birdwatching
Green Mountain Eco Route:
Explore the Green Mountain Eco Route, which takes you through the picturesque Overberg region. Discover beautiful gardens in Elgin during Open Gardens weekends, visit local wine estates, and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings of the Groenlandberg Conservancy. Enjoy mountain bike trails, hiking trails, and birdwatching opportunities in this lush landscape.
Harold Porter Botanical Gardens:
Located between the mountains and the sea, Harold Porter Botanical Gardens (60 km away) in Betty’s Bay offers 10 hectares of cultivated fynbos gardens and 190 hectares of natural fynbos. Explore nature trails that wind through the gardens, take in the stunning views, and observe a variety of bird species. The gardens also host educational boards on plant and animal life.
Venster Kloof Nature Garden (Caledon Wildflower Garden):
In Caledon, Venster Kloof Nature Garden, also known as the Caledon Wildflower Garden (111 km away), offers a peaceful natural space. Stroll through fields of daisies, explore rocky kloofs with aloes, and hike in the mountains surrounding Caledon. Enjoy views of the garden’s little dam and discover beautiful indigenous flora.
Hike at Porcupine Hills
Hike one of the various trails at Porcupine Hills, a private farm just a 10 minute drive down from Underhill. The fynbos covered trails vary from easy to challenging and offer incredible views of indigenous fauna and flora, including eagles nesting on the cliff faces. Entrance is R75/ head. If you wish to bring your dogs along, simply call the owner Cha on 074 106 7972.
Local Attractions and Landmarks
Houwhoek Pass:
Travel through the picturesque Houwhoek Pass, which connects Villiersdorp and Grabouw. This scenic mountain pass offers a beautiful descent into the Overberg and provides a dramatic change in scenery. It’s a perfect route for a day trip, with the option to return via Clarence Drive through the Kogelberg Biosphere.
Theewaterskloof Dam:
Located on the Sonderend River near Villiersdorp, Theewaterskloof Dam (35 km away) is one of the largest dams in South Africa. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the dam and surrounding landscape. The area is a hub for water sports, including sailing, canoeing, jet skiing, and fishing. You can also camp near the dam and experience the serene beauty of the surroundings.
Walker Bay Wine Route:
Explore the Walker Bay Wine Route, where over a dozen wineries around Hermanus offer excellent wine tastings. The Hemel-en-Aarde Valley (51 km away), known for its cool climate, produces exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. Visit wineries such as Bouchard Finlayson, Whalehaven Wines, and Hamilton Russell Vineyards to savour their fine wines and enjoy scenic views.
Whale Watching in Walker Bay:
Discover the renowned whale-watching opportunities in Walker Bay. Hermanus is famous for offering some of the best land-based whale watching globally during the Southern Right Whales mating season from August to September. Gansbaai, also known as the Big 2 Town, offers boat-based whale watching tours and shark cage diving experiences. De Kelders provides stunning shore-based whale spotting, and the whale-watching season lasts.
Arrival & Departure
Arrival is from 15:00 and check out is 10:00. Early check in and late check out are more than welcome if there are no other guests checking in or out. Please contact Julian via WhatsApp prior to arrival to request a change in time.
Please pay a 50% deposit at time of booking to secure your booking, and please settle the remainder prior to arrival. There are also card facilities available on the farm.
This can all be done on the website by clicking here, and only website bookings are accepted, as there is a first come first served policy. No email enquiries can be booked manually as we use an online booking system.
Not at this stage no.
The cottages at Underhill are designed to minimise the footprint on the land and environment and as such there is limited extra space. As such the two 4 sleeper cottages are not suited for extra adults.
The 2 sleeper cottages do have a day bed that can sleep an extra person with prior arrangement with Julian.
At this stage Underhill does not allow camping.
Amenities
Yes. Your dogs (and there have been birds and cats) are most welcome. Each cottage has a private enclosed garden with a fence for your dogs to roam and not be able to escape.
But please no dogs on furniture or beds. If your dogs are used to being on the furniture, please bring throws or blankets to protect the furniture from fur and scratches.
The farm is popular with Dog owners, so please use the same discretion when walking your dogs around the farm as you would in a local park, bearing in mind there may be other guests with dogs, or who are not fond of dogs. Please also note that the local black and white cat Artemis is not fond of dogs and may make a show of force if they come too close.
Yes – Underhill farm is blessed to be supplied from a local dam that has had sufficient capacity even during the harshest drought. 20l of drinking water from the Franchhoek pass is supplied for drinking / or there are 5 stage reverse osmosis water filter taps at 2 of the cottages (Hobbit Hollow and Willow cottage).
Yes – The is solar powered, with a back up to Eskom if it is overcast or raining. There is also a battery bank that will provide power during load-shedding, so you should never be without electricity.
No. High quality linen is provided for your comfort. Should there be excessive stains or damage that cannot be cleaned, you may be liable for replacement.
Bed linen, one bathroom towel per person, as well as a fully equipped kitchen with fridge, microwave and dishwasher, braai area and stove and hob are included in each cottage (with the exception of Rivendell and Willow that only has a hob). Please bring towels for the pool, as well as all food, condiments, and drinks.
No, outside activities and star watching as well as cards or board games are encouraged.
No, all cottages have a single shared bathroom.
The cottages are all self-catering and fully equipped kitchens are provided.
None due to guidelines from COVID-19..
For stays exceeding 4 days, yes laundry facilities can be arranged – please pre arrange with Julian via email or whatsapp.
Yes – There are wifi routers in each cottage and strong wifi to allow remote working within reason.
The Cottages
Yes – The tap water is dam water that has been treated and is safe to drink. There is also 20l rain water supplied to each cottage. Please bring your own extra water should you wish.
Yes – every cottage has its own stoep and undercover braai area (with the exception of Oak cottage where there is a weber and braai tongs and grids are included.
Yes – every cottage has its own indoor fireplace.
Yes – every cottage has been very carefully designed so you have your own space and no cottage can be seen from any other cottage window or stoep. Also, as the cottages all point away from each other noise from one cottage does not carry to another.
Yes every cottage has its own pool. The Rivendell pool is a 5,000 litre jojo tank that has been converted into a plunge pool, and the swimming spot at Hobbit Hollow is a rock pool in the Botrivier.
The hot water is gas powered and the gas geyser is powered by batteries. Whilst these are checked regularly it is possible that the gas may run our or the batteries are flat. If you don’t have hot water, please let Julian know and it will be rectified.
Please help with recycling with putting clean plastic, glass and metal in the crates provided. Please also put aside leftover food scraps so they can be put on the compost heap (under the old oak tree by the lower farm). Otherwise all other rubbish is taken to the local rubbish dump in Villiersdorp. Please help minimising the rubbish that gets dumped by recycling as much as possible.
Each cottage has a septic tank. Please do not throw anything other than toilet paper down the toilet and please do not bring any harsh chemicals, cleaners or bleach to the farm.
In your own cottage, stoep and private river side chill area – yes. As no cottage overlooks another the noise travels away from the other cottages so you won’t bother or be bothered by other parties. Please be respectful of others in the open areas of the farm.
Yes every cottage is equipped with it’s own dishwasher and dishwasher tablets are included in the kitchen. Please put the tablet in the cutlery tray, not in the door, and when you pack the dishwasher make sure everything is pointing downwards so they can be cleaned by the under-tray sprayers.
The Location
Cell phone signal is poor, but there is a strong Wi-Fi network.
Yes absolutely. The farm is remote and 18km from the nearest town which makes it private, secluded and secure.
Yes – there is a forest path that starts in the middle of the farm by the solar array, that has a easy walk along the Botrivier going to the left back to the farm entrance at the van der Stel pass entrance and the path to the right goes up into the mountains (please ask Julian for directions). The van der Stel pass is very popular with cyclists with the pass winding down the valley to Botrivier.
The farms next door to Underhill are private residences and not accessible, however you can walk the Botrivier trail.
The streams on either side of the farm are not stocked with fish, but Theewaters sports club is a half hour drive from the farm and offers a range of water activities.
Yes – Eerste Hoop wine farm is next door and can arrange wine tastings by prior booking. Please contact Julian via mail or WhatsApp prior to arrival to book.
We are also located at the beginning of the Botrivier wine route (which heads down the scenic van der stel Pass towards Botrivier and along the N2 and on the other side towards Hermanus.
See https://www.botriverwines.com/estates/ for details about the various wine farms.
Yes, in the open fields it can get very hot, but Underhill farm is blessed to be situated between two streams which are forested and shade the cottages and provide cooling breezes. In addition, each cottage has its own plunge pool for relaxing in in summer. So, the cottages and surrounds remain cool even on the hottest of days.
Yes, into the minus degrees at night. However, each cottage has a wood fireplace to keep you warm, and all the cottages are well insulated to keep in the heat and extra blankets are supplied.
Outside Grabouw, the most popular place is Peregrines, and the Elgin Railway Market is a must visit with dozens of food stalls, curios and the steampunk design in the old warehouse – check online for opening times.
In Botrivier The Shunting Shed makes fantastic burgers and pizzas, and the Botrivier Hotel in the town square is a must see.
Further afield there are the tourist towns of Hermanus and Franschhoek.
Directions & Travel
Yes – The dirt road past the farm (van der Stel Pass) is in excellent condition and the road to the farm is also in excellent condition with the road up and down the hill paved so you don’t get stuck if it is raining.
Underhill farm is less than 100km from Cape Town and can be accessed via the N2 over Sir Lowries pass via Grabouw, or the N1 over the Franschhoek pass through Franschhoek.
You can access detailed directions here or use Google Maps – Please note that if you use Google maps you need to make sure the route takes you down Van der Stel Pass. Sometimes Google maps uses inaccessible farm roads if you are coming from the coast.
Still have questions?
Reach out and we’ll be happy to help