Travel … PHOTOGRAPHS: DAVE SOUTHWOOD
THE ONGOING
EVOLUTION OF
That includes hand-woven scarves from Barrydale
B
Weavers, vintage wooden toys from a local craftsman, and a range of custom-made puzzles, colouring books
OSJES Estate is brimming with new
and crocheted soft toys that celebrate the wildlife of
energy as it reveals the next phase
BOSJES estate.
in its evolution, with a new high-
“We also believe in reusing and repurposing,” adds
design pantry-style coffee shop and farm shop set amid
Mooney, who sought out local antique stores to supply
imaginatively landscaped indigenous gardens.
beautiful vintage ceramics.
Situated in the scenic Breede River valley, just over an hour’s drive from Cape Town, BOSJES has grown in stature
FRESH BAKES AND COUNTRY FLAVOURS
and acclaim since opening in March 2017.
A short walk through the gardens brings visitors to the
“This latest expansion really establishes BOSJES as a leading destination in the Cape winelands,” explains Carlen Vorster, CEO of Hospitality & Marketing. “And, even
shop and well-stocked country pantry. On the shelves, discover seasonal preserves using
more importantly, the expanded outdoor areas allow us to
fruit from the valley – think pickled garlic, fig and
welcome day-visitors over the weekends; a time when the
almond jam, and onion marmalade – while glass
estate was often closed for private functions.”
displays are filled with breads, pastries and patisserie
Creating imaginative outdoor spaces was key to the design of the new gardens, and “we’ve really focused
from talented pastry chef Rafieq Jacobs. But it’s on the menu from Head Chef Kim Cox that the
the expansion to attract families looking to spend time
Spens shows its true colours, with an array of delicious
together outdoors”, adds Vorster. “It really is a perfect fit
dishes that’ll take care of hunger pangs from breakfast
with the BOSJES philosophy of making people more aware
right through to lazy afternoon picnics.
of the beauty of nature.” Within the new garden, guests can enjoy two new
With a firm focus on seasonal eating, the Spens menu is flexible enough for most plates to be enjoyed indoors,
visitor offerings on the estate, the BOSJES Spens and the
where the playful décor and long banquettes by Liam
BOSJES Winkel. The Winkel is BOSJES’ contemporary
Mooney may tempt on wintry days, or out in the shade of
interpretation of a country store, curated by acclaimed
the lemon groves amid the gardens.
interior designer Liam Mooney, who has filled the space
Breakfast focuses on classic plates – French toast
with a covetable collection of bespoke wares, local crafts
and caramelised banana, through to Eggs Benedict on
and upcycled décor. “The Winkel is a wonderful curation
potato rösti – while the pre-ordered Farm Platter boxes
of old and new, artisanal and unique,” explains Mooney.
and On The Move menu is designed for families looking
“It was important that we supported local craftsmen and
to enjoy a picnic in the gardens.
suppliers as much as possible.” 6
Spens, which blends the best elements of a café, coffee
SILVER DIGEST // WINTER 2021
Continued …