The Space

A Space Crafted with Care and Creativity

THE SPACE, with its sprung wooden floors, expansive windows, and distinctive reciprocal roof adorned with a skylight, exudes a sense of warmth and tranquility. Surrounded by weeping willows,  ancient cypress and dignified Bluegums, it is a space for deep and transformative work.

A Labor of Love

The Space was dreamed up (mostly) by Paula and built (mostly) by Iain over the course of a year, amidst the demands of running a cattle farm and raising their children.  With the help of a team of local workers and international volunteers, and the natural building expertise of Niel Smith, the space was built using materials sourced almost entirely from The Rest farm. From adobe bricks crafted with a perfect blend of natural elements to a breathtaking reciprocal roof fashioned from local poplars, every detail reflects a commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship.

Building with Passion and Purpose

The construction process was a labor of love and determination. From mastering new techniques to overcoming challenges along the way, every step was infused with passion and dedication. Supported by skilled team members, and the invaluable assistance of craftsmen from Nieu Bethesda like Justin Malgas (son of Koos Malgas of the Owl House), the space took shape with meticulous care and attention to detail.

A Space for Gathering and Growth

Completed in September 2015, this space stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and community. Whether hosting a creative workshop, a musical performance or a memorable retreat, this space invites guests to connect, learn, and grow in a setting crafted with love and long-held dreams.

Experience the Magic

When you join a retreat, book our accommodation or attend RestFest

A Labor of Love

A Space Crafted with Care and Creativity

Building with Passion and Purpose

A Space for Gathering and Growth

Retreat. Heal. Reconnect.

The Rest Farm Retreat in the Serene Sneeuberg Mountains

Accommodations

Cottages: Two rustic, family-sized, self-catering cottages.

Caravans: Three cute, fully equipped caravans.

Camping: A fun, budget-friendly option during summer.

Food & Supplies

Farm Produce: Purchase homemade bread, farm-style meals, grass-fed Karoochoice meat, and fresh eggs (meals and bread require advance notice.)

Pack Wisely: We are one hour away from the nearest grocery store, so please bring everything else!

Off-Grid & Sustainable Living

No load-shedding: We are fully solar-powered!

Eco-Conscious: To conserve water and energy, we do not have en-suite bathrooms or energy-hungry appliances. Enjoy our pristine, drinkable farm water, and help us reuse, recycle, and compost.

Digital Detox: There is no cell signal, but we offer good Wi-Fi if you need to plug in.

Pet Policy

Well-trained, non-hunting pets are welcome.  We ask that you help us protect our sensitive mountain ecosystem.

More Options

Getting to The Rest
We are half way between Cape Town and Johannesberg (about 8 hours in either direction) half an hour off the N9 highway. We are an hour from Graaff-Reinet and 25 minutes from Nieu Bethesda.

To Drive: Email us for directions and check on the current state of the road and how your car will fare on the dirt roads.

Carpool to workshops: Join the event on the Facebook page and see who is keen to carpool. Email us to put you in touch with other drivers coming from your area.

Bus: Both Intercape and Translux stop in Graaff-Reinet. We will arrange to pick you up from the bus station and bring you to the farm directly or via a guest house (buses usually arrive at awkward times in the late or early hours.)
Email us to arrange this.

Fly: Catch a flight to Port Elizabeth and hire car to drive to the farm (this is a four hour drive).
Co-ordinate with other workshop participants who want to do the same. Email us for directions.

Enquire Now

Enquire Now