A heritage worth restoring
One of the most pressing priorities under our new ownership, which happened in 2015, was to restore the farm’s collection of fine, classic 18th century Cape Dutch buildings. Together, they had been recognised as a cultural asset and declared a National Monument in 1974. But with the passing years, the buildings had inevitably lost some of their former splendour.
A black and white study of one of our gabled structures, highlighting the graceful curves and proportions that define classic Cape Dutch architecture.
Rediscovering the past
After 2015, a team of heritage architectural specialists was brought on board. Ahead of the restoration, they undertook extensive research on the past of these buildings to ensure their historical and structural integrity would be maintained. We were extremely fortunate to also have as an important reference, the paintings and drawings made by Jan Brandes, a Dutch Lutheran minister and artist, who stayed on the farm between 1786 and 1787. He had closely documented farm life, including the buildings on the property. (The originals are in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam).
Origins of Cape Dutch design
The architectural style he depicted had been developed by the late 17th century Dutch, French and occasional German settlers who were amongst the first to arrive at the Cape from Europe. The local buildings they erected were based on forms familiar to them in their native countries but adapted for local conditions, where the climate was vastly different. They also had to work with the local building materials at their disposal.
An archival photograph of a thatcher at work on the roof, capturing the skilled hands and careful craftsmanship that have kept Vergenoegd Löw’s historic buildings standing through the centuries.
The evolution of the gable
The gable-fronted style we so closely associate with Cape Dutch architecture, originated in The Netherlands. The walls were made of clay or lime mortar, thick and whitewashed to cope with the heat, while the thatched roof, made from local reeds, could provide insulation.
Over the decades and even centuries, the central front gables, originally intended as a firebreak should the thatch catch alight, became more ornate and embellished. And gables became more numerous, appearing on the sides of buildings too.
Revealing Vergenoegd Löw’s architectural treasures
But back to our own buildings. Apart from establishing that our current restaurant Clara’s Barn served as one of the very first barns erected at the Cape, the restorers also learned that what we now call, Geuwels because of its original, as well as its later, two side gables, was the farm’s cellar in its earlier days. The more formal 1773 Homestead, the only one of the structures to carry a date, was exactly as it name conveys: the dwelling of the owner and his family.
From restoration to reimagination
Once having revived these dilapidated buildings, the next stage was to bring in designers to refresh and repurpose the interiors, while establishing Geuwels and Clara’s Barn as two landmark restaurants.
After seeing how these various buildings function as hospitality facilities, we have taken things a step further to optimise the experience of guests. We have altogether reimagined the interiors of each structure to create a greater sense of visual unity between them and to express their cultural, historical legacy in a refreshed, modern idiom that is luxurious and refined. We have also brought greater clarity and definition of purpose to each building. So, when you step into each one of them, you recognise immediately what is going on.
The Homestead Farm Tea table, generously laid beneath a historic panorama of the farm, celebrates our tradition of warm hospitality and shared Sunday-style feasting.
Our 1773 Homestead, the heart of our hospitality
The 1773 Homestead will once again become the beating hospitality heart of the estate. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be able to sense the presence of the past, with the décor, furnishings and finishes paying homage to its fine 18th century origins.
Intended as a warm, welcoming and intimate home-away-from home, it is primarily for our staying guests, with carefully researched and inventively executed period touches throughout.
You will notice the tranquil, natural tones and textures, with bespoke wall-panelling, tiles and cabinetry. It is here that visitors can soon experience breakfast, stop for a coffee, enjoy our impeccable Homestead Farm Tea and/or our Caviar and Cap Classique combination (the latter two offerings launching in early 2026).
That’s not to mention an array of award-winning local whiskies and brandies, sip our own superb wines (also award-winning!), relax, read or listen to music. They can connect with fellow-guests, browse the library and in winter, keep warm by the fire. Just as they might at home.
Day guests will still have access to the Homestead by booking ahead for our exclusive Homestead Farm Tea, and the sensational caviar and Cap Classique offering, both of which are launching in early 2026. They are most welcome to try our luxury breakfasts, too, but subject to availability. To find out more, visit our website.
Geuwels, for relaxed enjoyment
Meanwhile, from December, Geuwels will become the centre of our wine-related activities and casual dining. Visitors could try an expanded range of wine tasting experiences, all showcasing the versatility of our sea-imprinted wines. They’ll also be able to delight in our all-new farm-to-table restaurant menu, where the season dictates the dishes on offer.
Geuwels will be open from 10:00 to 16:00 daily for wine tasting experiences, and from 11:30 to 16:00, also seven days a week, for leisurely dining in a celebration of the joys of culinary ritual.
A flight of sea imprinted red wines on the terrace, enjoyed with a small savoury bite while the restored Cape Dutch buildings look on in the distance.
Design that reflects nature
Here, the new décor emphasises the unhurried rhythm and repetition of natural life with its ever-recurring cycle of changing seasons, moods and foods. Celebrating light, texture and tone, the space features clay and lime shades that echo the building materials, as well as some of the ancient soils and marine fossils found on the farm. The use of reclaimed wood underscores our ethos of sustainable growing and upcycling, while the inviting gleaming warmth of vintage brass honours tradition.
Beautiful detailing in embroidered surfaces and the use of natural inks recall a bygone erudition and fluency in hand-rendered skills. We want guests to stop, stay and savour the experience, luxuriating in the here and now.
Signature experiences
Geuwels is where our signature and unique Indigenous Food & Wine Pairing will be offered. We’ll share seven wines, seven paired dishes featuring local, native ingredients and flavours, and seven stories of resilience and resourcefulness. We’ll also offer themed wine tastings. And wine pairings with artisanal local cheeses, or locally-sourced cured charcuterie, or with both, and even a pairing of our Cap Classique with a new take on traditional sweet treats.
Geuwels will provide tasty, quietly sophisticated gastronomy. What you will find is food raised regeneratively in healthy soils brimming with life and infused with a spark of ingenuity to animate flavours. Always honest. Always imaginative. Always fresh and always respectful of the seasons. Unpretentious but finessed.
Seasonal bites and estate-grown ingredients meet in our Indigenous Food & Wine Pairing, a tasting that tells the story of Vergenoegd Löw’s land and heritage in every sip and mouthful.
Sunday celebrations, a chance for authentic connection
Guests are also invited to try our Sunday Celebrations from January 2026, sharing generous tables laden with bountiful platters. Families and friends gather around as they would at home but embracing other like-minded diners who have also come to savour nature’s munificence and sip, if old enough, on fresh, lively wines that express their lime-rich soils and proximity to the sea. We call it merroir – a blend of mer/sea and terroir.
Looking ahead: Clara’s Barn
Now for the next chapter. Please watch this space for updates on Clara’s Barn. A whole new luxury bistro-style of dining awaits you, with the opening scheduled for 2026, before which we’ll fill you in on all the exciting details.