The Dog Star Manor
The Dog Star Manor story began in 1976 when Joachim and Rosemarie Rieck, having emigrated from Germany to Southwest Africa (now Namibia) in the 1950s, purchased Welmoed Farm. This stunning 10.5-hectare property was sparsely cultivated, with a few bulk-producing grape varieties and some cling peaches and apricots. In 1985, Joachim and Rosemarie moved to the farm permanently. When their two older children decided that farming wasn’t their calling, their youngest daughter Karen, alongside her partner John, took on the mantle. Life changed drastically in 1997 when Joachim was diagnosed with cancer.
In 1998, he modernized the river-side cottage, turning it into a cozy home for himself and Rosemarie. This allowed Karen and John to take over full responsibility for the farm in 1999, the same year Joachim sadly passed away.In 2017, their long-held dream of moving back to the farm and building a cellar and tasting room finally came to fruition, with completion in 2019. But in 2022, following the passing of Rosemarie, Karen and John decided to convert the beloved cottage into guest accommodation. What they anticipated as a simple renovation project became a significant transformation. The result is a serene space of volume and light, bringing the surrounding nature into the cottage, while reflecting the earthy tones of the shale and lime-rich soils. This is the story of Silverthorn Wines and Dog Star Manor—a peaceful space, born out of a family’s legacy, love for the land, and a journey through life’s milestones, creating a unique experience for those seeking great Cap Classiques, peace, history, and nature.
Bedrooms:
This luxurious accommodation features two King Size beds, two ceiling fans, and two showers, providing comfort and convenience throughout your stay. Guests can unwind in the freestanding bath or enjoy the warmth and ambiance of the wood-burning fireplace in the bedroom. Additional amenities include two safes, two hairdryers, and an iron with an ironing board to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Kitchen:
The fully equipped kitchen and laundry area include a fridge with freezer, wine fridge, dishwasher, tumble dryer, and washing machine. Guests can enjoy their favourite hot beverages with the Nespresso coffee maker and French press, while the gas stove and oven, blender, and microwave provide everything needed for effortless meal preparation and entertaining.
Extras
The property features a spacious terrace with an outdoor braai area, a refreshing plunge pool, two sun loungers, and an umbrella for relaxed outdoor living. Inside, the open-plan dining room and lounge create a welcoming space to gather, complemented by a cosy wood-burning fireplace. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, the peace of mind of an alarm system, and easy access to the Breede River, located just 35 metres away, offering excellent opportunities for fishing and swimming. Surrounded by incredible birdlife and natural beauty, this is the perfect retreat for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape.
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