The Cowshed

We,Diana & Ann are sisters and work together to ensure your experience at The Cowshed is a happy & memorable one. When we have time, we enjoy family get togethers, a lazy lunch in Dullstroom, walking the dogs and reading a good book.

Deep within the folds of the Steenkamp Mountains lies one of Mpumalanga’s best kept secrets, The Cowshed, a bastion of traditional country living and an idyllic pastoral retreat. Located on the family farm of Wilsonia,The Cowshed provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the finer elements of country living - lazy days, pristine views, fresh air and a variety of outdoor activities such as birdwatching, hiking and mountain biking. With an emphasis on comfort and African chic, The Cowshed embodies the very essence of South African farm life. In the valley, serenity is a way of life, not just wishful thinking. We have four vintage renovated houses on the farm! Choose between The Cowshed, The Boarding House,The Farm House and The Mountain House...or book all four. All the houses have fully-equipped kitchens, DSTV, fireplaces and outdoor barbeque areas. We supply, tea, coffee, sugar, milk and homemade rusks. The tented camp, offers a peaceful getaway from city life. A gas geyser supplies hot water & a stove top in the kitchenette, whilst hurricane lights cast a romantic glow at night. We currently offer only self-catering options. Meals can be arranged by special request.

The Cowshed is the perfect launching pad to explore the Badfontein Valley’s rich history. With breathtaking scenery as far as the eye can see, it’s almost impossible to imagine the area as anything other than an idyllic holiday destination. However, if you start to scratch away at the rustic charm and delve deep into the patina of the area, it soon becomes apparent that the quiet tourist spots of today were once bloody battlefields mired in political intrigue, feats of bravery and tragic loss of life.The area is also renowned for historical artifacts and archaeological sites which date back to the Iron Age, including the famed Lydenburg Heads. Horse riding trails for beginners and pros alike, can be organised through one of our neighbouring farms, giving visitors the perfect opportunity to explore the countryside. Rides generally last from one to two hours and can be organised through your hosts on the farm. The area is also well suited to long lazy walks, hanging out on the verandah, sipping coffee, reading books, and watching the resident herd of Nguni cattle grazing at your back door. Dullstroom and Pilgrim's Rest are within easy driving distance, both charming country towns