07 May My Absolutely Wild Weekend in Barrydale (Guest Post)
A while ago, some friends and I were invited to stay at the Absolutely Wild farm in Barrydale. I’d seen the updates on their blog that their holiday houses and accommodation were almost ready, and so was ecstatic I had been chosen to test out a home. The owner had been hinting about what was to come for ages: the animals, a pool, heated hot tubs, and even a padstal! We agreed that I would stay there from the 26th to the 28th of April, which was great because it wasn’t too hot or cold for a cabin stay.
Friday
On the 26th, I left work early. My friends and I piled into the car with our luggage and set off for Barrydale on Route 62. It is about a 3-hour drive from Cape Town, but we stopped for an hour in Robertson for lunch and had an awesome burger at a restaurant called Bourbon Street.
After finally arriving in Barrydale, we went grocery shopping to stock up for the weekend, buying meat, spices, and of course, drinks! On our way, we passed Ronnie’s Sex Shop, a well-known bar on the way to Absolutely Wild. Locals like to tell the story of Ronnie’s Shop, which Ronnie was fixing up to be a farm stand. During construction, Ronnie’s friends played a prank on him by painting the word “sex” on his sign. Instead of a farm stand, he left the sign as it was and opened the pub.
When we got to the farm and were met with some snacks kindly organised by the owner. Then, we were led to our house: a brick cabin with a inside and outside braai, a wood-fired hot tub, and lots of pillows. We cracked open a few drinks and set about lighting the fire to make curry sousaties and sausage I bought in Barrydale.
The comfortable beds, fresh air and quiet surroundings made me sleep like a rock.
Saturday
On Saturday, one of my friends made us a healthy breakfast. We had yoghurt, some berries and French toast as our fuel. After that, we had a dip in the wood-fired hot tubs, which was so relaxing. That’s what a weekend away is all about: eating and relaxing with no interruptions.
Then, some staff came to fetch us for a game drive. i got to see kudu, gemsbok, sable and buffalo. We were also invited to go with them when they fed the buffalo. A month-old buffalo was included in the herd. They are massive, and it was a great opportunity to be so close to such powerful animals.
After the game drive, we went back to our cabin and lit a fire for a tomato bredie pot. In the afternoon there was a massive storm with loads of thunder and lightning that we watched while we ate supper.
I had a great night’s sleep because of the rain.
Sunday
On Sunday morning, we had some toast with eggs and a tomato and onion mix. Then, we packed up and strolled down past the staff houses to say goodbye and thank you for an amazing farm stay.
On the way back, we stopped at Diesel and Creme for a milkshake. Their milkshakes aren’t normal– they’re extraordinarily large with bits of everything. My chocolate one had Whispers and a slice of chocolate cake on top. It’s a must-see on your way to the farm.
I really enjoyed staying at Absolutely Wild with my friends. It’s an experience I’ll never forget: tomato bredie watching the thunderstorm, feeding buffalos, and one of the best milkshakes I’ve ever had. If you’re thinking about a farm stay, try Absolutely Wild!