Underhill Farm Review: A Pet-Friendly Haven in the Botrivier Valley
In a world where genuine escapes are hard to find (especially if you’re travelling with a fury companion), Underhill Farm is a true sanctuary. This pet-friendly farm situated in the picturesque Botrivier Valley gives new meaning to peace and tranquillity.
As the long-suffering custodians of a reactive, energetic Labrador, my husband and I are in constant pursuit of a little peace and repose. This means we’re always on the lookout for pet-friendly places where we can all relax and our precious Sully can be his crazy self without upsetting the neighbours or testing my sanity.
Sully is the sweetest little dog, but he takes his self-appointed job of family protector very seriously; even if the biggest daily threat we face is Checkers Sixty-60 bikes that dare to rattle past our gate.
So, for our little family unit, pet-friendly accommodation goes beyond the logistics of a fenced-off garden and dogs being allowed to sleep inside. For a reactive dog like Sully, a quiet farm stay, far away from the threats of suburban Cape Town life, is a chance to relax and disconnect, knowing his humans are safe.
Beautiful Pet-friendly accommodation near Cape Town
When it comes to pet-friendly credentials, Underhill is a shining star. This charming guest farm isn’t just pet-friendly, here pets are prioritised. For the human guests, the farm offers charming self-catering accommodation options with a generous dose of whimsy. Underhill Farm is a testament to sustainable living, with its upcycled cottages and commitment to eco-friendly practices. The farm’s ethos is evident in every detail, from the reclaimed materials used in the cottages to the solar-powered energy that keeps the lights on.
Yet, despite its environmentally-friendly ethos, there’s no compromise on comfort. Oak Cottage, our home for the weekend, is a cosy, rustic retreat perched between ancient oak trees. The modern tree house overlooks the river bed below, giving you the feeling of floating in the clouds. A private deck, with its views of the meandering Botrivier, is the perfect spot for a morning coffee or an evening glass of wine.
Inside, Oak Cottage has everything you need (and then some). This includes a potbelly stove for chilly nights, a well-equipped kitchen, an enclosed braai area, and a comfortable queen-sized bed tucked into a window-filled alcove. In addition to an indoor bathroom, the cottage also boasts an outdoor shower and bath surrounded by trees, with a view overlooking the riverbed. The décor is charmingly eclectic, with upcycled furniture and quirky touches that add to the cottage’s character.
Oak Cottage is the type of home you’d expect to find in a storybook like the Magic Faraway Tree. The cottage’s aesthetic comes as no surprise, considering all Underhill’s accommodation options have been modelled on The Lord of The Rings, taking inspiration from the world of Tolkien at every turn.
But just because it’s rustic doesn’t mean the accommodation isn’t kept to a high standard. Oak Cottage is meticulously maintained. You would expect a wooden treehouse with a ceiling made from recycled hessian bags to be cobweb central, but it’s almost mind-boggling how spotless the cottage is.
Outside Oak Cottage, there’s a swimming pool,a firepit with fireside seating and a large fully fenced garden. Follow the steps down the embankment to a little swing gate and you’ll find yourself in the river bed — essentially a private, naturally-formed beach. The beach was Sully’s favourite place to be during our stay. He had the best time running along the river bed, digging holes in the sand, splashing in the river, and taking in all the wonderful smells. There’s no question: Underhill Farm is paradise for dogs.
The farm’s expansive grounds provided Sully with endless opportunities to explore. The securely enclosed garden at Oak Cottage ensured he could roam freely, while the nearby riverbank offered even more to explore and a spot for him to cool off. When we arrived, Sully was greeted by one of the farm’s many resident dogs, Zeus, and the pair became fast friends.
For pet owners, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your furry friend is not just tolerated but embraced is priceless. It’s no wonder that Underhill Farm has garnered rave reviews from fellow travellers, there’s just not many places like it where dogs are catered for quite like this.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat, a family adventure, or a holiday with your four-legged friend, this pet-friendly haven in the Botrivier Valley is a destination that promises to offer a truly relaxing escape. We left with our hearts full and spirits lifted, already making plans for our next visit.
Book at Underhill Farm
Just a quick 90-minute drive from Cape Town, Underhill Farm offers a wide range of pet-friendly self-catering accommodation options. This includes two-sleeper cottages with a swimming pool or hot tub, as well as larger 4 and 6-sleeper options.
To book, visit the Underhill website now. To keep up with happenings on the farm, follow Underhill Farm on Instagram.
