Skilpad Manor

Skilpad Manor is a beautiful old house in the tiny, out-of-the-way village of Vanwyksdorp, where things do not seem to have changed much for some decades: no fancy boutiques, no expensive restaurants (although one can have a good coffee, brunch or lunch at the Barking Frog, or coffee at the ironically named "Mall"), no kitschy tourist traps. The local people are friendly and greet everybody they pass in the streets. The house itself, set in a large, shady well-kept garden, has loads of atmosphere and has a well equipped kitchen. There is a refreshing absence of the "Dos and don'ts" notices found in so many self-catering establishments. The house sleeps at least eight, but finicky city dwellers will have to do without en-suite bathrooms, as their parents or grandparents before them. The accommodation would be best suited to families or close friends. A place to relax, read a book, go for walks, and soak up the Little Karroo scenery.

A wonderful restful time away in the Karoo in a magnificent old house.