South Africa is one of the most popular escapes in the world, promising sunshine (or crisp winters), nature, food and wine, culture, and dramatic scenery. While Cape Town is arguably the country’s most popular tourism destination, a world of outstanding natural beauty, relaxation, dining and adventure lies just a short drive from the city – and one chic private rental company is putting that countryside on the global stage – Art House Collection. 

Known for its exclusive portfolio of private rentals, which are filled with personality, soul, design touches and boars, some sort of exclusive collection – be it art, furnishings or more – art house collection offers some of South Africa’s most stunning and exclusive private villa rentals. Its latest listing is every bit as impressive as you’d expect – an almost chameleon-like escape in the rugged backdrop of Wellington. 

Named Amaranth, the stunning new property sits in a rugged landscape of red mountains and golden grasses in an area famed for its vineyards, hikes and breathtaking wedding venues. The escape promises to provide a quiet pocket that exists ‘outside of time’, and encourages guests to ‘slow down, walk barefoot and breathe in the spirit of these untouched lands’.

Ideal for families and groups of friends looking for a stylish and luxe countryside escape with a different this season, Amaranth is set on 40 hectares and offers six bedrooms – each with its own king-sized bed and ensuite (so there’s no fighting over rooms). 

The house itself is formed of rustic red clay and takes a holistic approach to wellness and relaxation. The property is fully staffed and catered, with each guest experience homegrown and handcrafted means, with all food and drink nourishing and organic. As much as a spiritual retreat is a slick escape, the staff is also on hand for a variety of healing rituals. 

Mornings start with kenshō breathwork and movement sessions, followed by exploratory walks through nature, or swimming in the eco dam, all accompanied by your dedicated guide. These excursions into the outdoors are encouraged to better connect with the surrounding nature, while a variety of wellness treatments are also available to guests looking to maximise the healing process. Massages, sound healing, and food classes, as well as a retail experience, are also provided by the farm.

An off-shoot of In Residence, a private South Africa villa rental company known for its vast and ultra-modern mansions, Art House Collection has established itself as the go-to for a unique and against-the-grain escape. Its portfolio includes everything from one-bedroom apartments by the sea to mega homes in vineyards and nature reserves across South Africa. Favourites include a a colourful beach house on the Atlantic Seaboard with red striped awnings and African art; Palm Springs, straight out of a Slim Aarons photograph with Sixties glamour and a taxidermy-filled cattle rancher’s estate with manicured hedged gardens and priced art and sculptures.

Stays at Amaranth include

• Wifi
• Solar power
• Private garden
• Parking
• Dedicated workspace/office
• Robe and slippers
• Firepit
• Fireplace (wood)
• Sun loungers
• Hairdryer (on request)

POA, for bookings visit arthouse-collection.com, @arthouse.collection

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