Heaven on earth - pure peace and quiet in a little slice of paradise.
Aloe Hill is an absolute gem - one of those places that lingers in your mind long after you’ve left, and you know you’ll be back at the next opportunity. If you're craving peace, privacy, and breathtaking scenery, this is the spot. It’s also incredibly affordable, making it fantastic value for money. We were warmly welcomed by Ernest on arrival - who was friendly, helpful, and full of knowledge about the area. From the moment we stepped inside, it felt like home. We even caught ourselves daydreaming about selling our house just to move there. Perched high in the hills of Mooi River, the uninterrupted views are nothing short of breathtaking - sweeping valleys, expansive bushveld, and just a handful of distant farms in sight. No road noise, no city lights, no crowds - just the wind, birds, and the kind of quiet that feels almost surreal. The best view was without a doubt from the main bedroom, where the giant fold-stacking window practically turns the landscape into a living mural. There are no words for how it felt to sit on the bed, watching the bright red sun set over the valley or waking up to sparrows darting past the window. The privacy is unmatched. The house is far enough from others on the property that even if farm equipment is running, you won’t hear a thing. If you find the constant hum of suburban noise exhausting, this place is like hitting the reset button. Inside, the house is gorgeous - thoughtfully designed with a mix of modern, rustic, and industrial touches that make it both stylish and inviting. The kitchen is stocked with everything you could possibly need, from everyday essentials to cast-iron cookware and a scottel (seriously, nothing is missing), making meal prep a joy. The massive stove is a dream to cook on, and having two bathrooms and showers was a real convenience - though the gas boiler could be a bit temperamental at times. The only thing that would have made the stay even better? Slightly bigger beds - they were incredibly comfortable, but a bit more space would have been a bonus. You also don't have to give up any of your creature comforts - there is great phone signal, WiFi, a flat-screen TV, and a large sofa perfect for curling up on with a good book. And for those looking for that perfect rustic touch, there’s a big firepit outside for cuddling up under the stars, plus a wraparound patio with comfy furniture where you can sit and soak up nature. Another huge perk? It’s completely off-grid, meaning not only is your getaway eco-friendly, but you also don’t have to worry about loadshedding disrupting your stay. The solar system is incredibly efficient - we barely even used one bar of battery, despite watching TV and staying up late. The fireplace does a great job keeping the house nice and warm, though when temperatures drop really low, a few extra blankets downstairs for winter would be a welcome addition. And, of course, the ultimate highlight for us - it’s pet-friendly! Our dogs loved every second, whether they were basking in the sun on the patio, exploring the private fenced garden, or joining us on long, beautiful walks around the farm, they were in their element from the second we arrived. There's a gap under the gate in the driveway, which might be worth noting for when the cows come past, but our dogs never go far from us, so it wasn’t an issue. Aloe Hill is a rare find - quiet, private, well designed, and ideal for both people and pets looking for a peaceful escape. It’s the kind of place that gives you space to breathe. We left feeling completely refreshed, and our dogs were in heaven the entire time.
