The historic farm of Natte Valleij set on the lower slopes of the Simonsberg mountains, is within easy reach of Paarl, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Cape Town (35 mins). Natte Valleij oozes a sense of history with its homestead, old wine cellars, brandy stills, magnificent mature gardens with ancient trees, pergolas and ponds that all are surrounded by whitewashed walls.
Owned by the Milner Family, the farm was granted in 1715 to an ex-soldier Jurgiaan Hanekom from Germany. In 1770 Natte Valleij became the property of the de Villiers family it was during their ownership that the main homestead was build in 1775 it was a classic “H” shape design with a florid gable. In 1839 the house was obtained by Adriaan Jacobus van der Bijl and later that year was partially destroyed by a fire. In 1840 he restored the damaged woodwork and replaced the gable with one of a neo-classical design dated 1840, which can be seen today.
The present owners, the Milner family, bought Natte Valleij in 1969 and the old vines were pulled out and replaced with grass paddocks and for the next 27 years, the farm served as a thoroughbred stud producing many classic winners. The horses have now all been retired and replaced by classic wines, friendly and efficient hospitality in our self-catering and en-suite guestroom accommodation and hosting romantic country weddings. We welcome the opportunity to share with you the ambiance of a bygone era.
