Listing this property was a sensory overload, a feast for the eyes, a whimsical trip back in time and a full body work-out!

Rust en Vreugd has a rich history that feels like it should be written into a thick novel only to be read exclusively beside a crackling fire with a glass of full-bodied wine.

The north-facing, five-bedroom 3-bathroom Herbert Baker style main dwelling was built in 1895 by Harry Pixton for his lovely wife who was confined to a wheelchair, to enjoy the magnificent views of the Simonsberg Mountain range.

Throughout the entire home, the glossy and polished solid wood doorframes, window-frames and floors are so well restored and maintained that they possibly wink at you as you pass by.

Glancing out of the many windows, the house feels like an oasis or island, but instead of ocean or desert, you are surrounded by rows and rows of lush green Hanepoot vineyards and ancient oak trees that seem almost as if they belong in a fairytale.

Ill start downstairs and try to do it justice. Follow me as I enter through the door into the entrance hall where an absolutely stunning, enormous chandelier looms above. To the right is a comfortable room currently being utilized as a tv-lounge. To the left is a carpeted staircase and a full bathroom. Continuing forward, we enter the heart of the home, a formal dining room slash living area. The center piece of this room is the large fireplace look up and you will see the art-deco style cornicing on the ceiling that kind of makes you giggle because you werent expecting that!

To our left is a stoep or patio and to our right is another stoep or patio, which the current owner says is one of her absolute favorite things about this home. Picture warm evenings, just as the sun is setting. Laughter and conversation from your friends and family filtering through the sounds of splashing water as the kids jump into the fiberglass pool. The undercover braai is lit and the smell of boerewors stop it, Im making myself hungry.

Speaking of food, the next room takes us to the solid Yellowwood farm-style kitchen with more than adequate cupboard space, a scullery, pantry, double sink and extractor fan.

Now that we are on the other side of the house, there is another room we shall call it the study or library that is a perfect break-away room for those many ZOOM meetings. You wont need to set a virtual background for this one as it oozes old world luxury (think ceiling to floor solid wood bookshelves). To break your brain – wait for it there is a matching carpeted staircase on this side of the house as well! Are you ready for upstairs?

All the bedrooms are fitted with air-conditioners and are large enough to accommodate a double bed very comfortably. Three of the rooms have fireplaces for the colder months so take out your warmest jersey from the ample built-in cupboard space. The main bedroom has a balcony on either side where you can wake up to the sunrise (which is best at 06:06am) according to the owner. Put your mobile device down and enjoy, and I quote a loo with a view unquote, in one of the two upstairs bathrooms.

Time to stroll the grounds I say.

In the upper far corner of the yard, by the plum and pear trees, sits the perfect spot for a thriving vegetable garden. From here, a little bit below the concrete swimming pool (which I thought was Olympic size but my colleague told me to stop exaggerating) and yes, you read right ANOTHER pool, the land contour gently slopes into the vineyard.

If you thought this is a dream come true, let me add the sprinkles on top. There are two separate income-generating flatlets, each with their own single garages.

But wait theres more! Two labourers cottages and ablusion facilities are also part of the deal and require some TLC. Along the way there are many attractions including the new Green School , Val-de-Vie lifestyle estate, Le Bonheur Crocodile farm, Babylonstoren, Oakdene Stables also Vrede en Lust.

Call for more photos