28/04/2026
Our story up to now.
We know this is a long read but we would like you to be part of our journey.
In 2021 we started looking for a property that we could develop. At the time we had no idea where to start looking or what we would find.
In our random online search, we stumbled across a plot in Hogsback. We had never been to that part of the world but we were intrigued. Together we made the decision to get in our car, drive there and meet the agent.
In the wee hours of a Saturday morning we left Ladybrand as we were working in Lesotho at the time. 6 hours later we arrived in Hogsback, a quaint beautiful forested paradise.
The plot was so overgrown and neglected. There was only a narrow path to navigate through the property and it was extremely difficult to see the potential as we couldn't access most parts. It only took us 30 minutes to decide that this was where we wanted to put down roots.
There is something special about this place. It's a feeling that we had deep inside our souls. We didn't even need to discuss it, we both knew it was the correct decision. The agent was absolutely floored by how we felt and how quickly we had made up our minds. She even asked us to sleep on it but there was no holding us back.
We drove back to Ladybrand the same day with joy in our hearts. The 12 hours on the road for the trip both ways was so worth it. We both just knew that we had made the best decision of our lives.
Of course we had no idea what an enormous challenge we had set for ourselves, but we were up for it and completely positive.
There were 7 acres of overgrown brush and alien vegetation that needed to be cleared before we could even see the lay of the land and how to proceed. As we progressed the beauty of our property was unveiled to us. It is sloped with fantastic mountain views across a small valley. On the bottom reaches of the property we have amazing bird cherry and maple trees. A haven and a source of food for the birds.
Our first structure was a log cabin for ourselves nestled amongst the trees. Waking up in Hogsback is a truly special experience, the only sounds are the trees rustling in the wind and birdsong as the sun rises.
The upper reaches has needed to be cleared of all vegetation in order to build, but we are replanting 100's of saplings so that the whole property will once again be enveloped in trees and shrubs. The ground has not seen proper sunlight for the last 20 years as the vegetation and bush has smothered it.
It is absolutely amazing how nature fixes itself. Now that sunlight can reach the floor, natural grasses are starting to grow, ferns are sprouting in the dappled light, we have 100's of Arum lillies that flower in spring and early summer. Mother nature has done this all on her own, how incredible is that!! We are assisting the healing process by adding plants and trees.
We have a committed dedicated team that has helped us bring our vision to fruition. We have built 4 luxury A frame chalets. Each has a loft bedroom, an open plan kitchen and lounge with a fireplace and a lovely bathroom. There is a private wood fired hot tub on each deck where you can unwind from your daily stresses surrounded by nature.
There is also a communal firepit for our guests to enjoy under the stars.
Teamwork makes the dream work!!
We are so excited and feel so blessed and fortunate to be in a position to create a unique self catering accommodation experience in Hogsback.
The story doesn't end here, we have more plans in the pipeline. We will give updates as we go along.
Thank you to all our guests. Your happiness and satisfaction is always our number one priority
