The Story of Klipkopje

At its heart, Klipkopje is a family farm—a place where nature and heart come together.

Originally known as Baronmere, the farm was bought by our family in the early 2000s. Back then, it looked very different. Much of the property was covered in dense bluegum plantations, and over the years our family has lovingly transformed it into the sanctuary it is today. Every indigenous tree planted, every path cleared, every fence built and every corner restored has been part of that journey. Klipkopje is not something that appeared overnight—it has been shaped with patience, hard work and a deep love for this land.

The land itself has always been officially registered as Portion 20 Klipkopje. Over the past two decades, the farm has grown alongside our family, becoming a place filled with memories, milestones and deep meaning. As this new chapter began to take shape, we found ourselves drawn back to the name that had always belonged to the land.

Klipkopje, an Afrikaans word meaning "stony little hill," is more than a name—it is part of the farm's history and identity. Returning to it felt like a way of honouring where this story began while embracing where it is going. It is a tribute to the generations before us, a celebration of everything this land has become, and a reflection of the legacy we hope to continue for generations to come.

For our family, "the farm," as we simply call it, became the backdrop to our childhood. It was where three sisters grew up swimming in the dam, gathering around the fire, and learning to appreciate the quiet beauty of nature.

For our late mother, Jenna, this was her happy place. She always dreamed of creating a sanctuary here—a place where others could experience the same sense of peace, restoration and connection that the farm had given to our family. It was somewhere to slow down, gather around a fire, breathe deeply, and remember what truly matters.

Klipkopje Tent is the first chapter of that dream.

Thoughtfully designed to blend into the landscape rather than compete with it, the tent offers guests the opportunity to experience the farm much as we always have—unhurried, immersed in nature, and surrounded by simple luxuries. While this is where the journey begins, it certainly won't be where it ends. We have many dreams for Klipkopje and look forward to sharing them as this special place continues to grow and evolve.

Above all, Klipkopje is a piece of heaven that has meant so much to our family, and one we feel incredibly grateful to share with yours.

Every stay is an invitation to step away from the demands of everyday life, reconnect with nature, with the people beside you, and with yourself. We hope that, even if only for a little while, you'll leave feeling as though you've found your own sanctuary here.

Spanning more than 200 hectares, Klipkopje is a landscape of rolling grasslands, indigenous bushveld, granite outcrops and open skies. At its heart lies the tranquil Longmere Dam, where the changing light, still water and abundant birdlife create a sense of calm from sunrise to sunset.

The farm is home to a rich variety of wildlife that roams freely across the land. Guests will often spot impala, zebra and blesbok grazing nearby, while Egyptian geese and ducks are familiar visitors to the water's edge. It's not uncommon for these resident animals to wander past the tent, offering quiet moments of connection with the landscape from the comfort of your deck.

Around our family farmhouse, a small group of ponies, donkeys and peacocks have become much-loved members of the farm, adding to its gentle rhythm and character.

Bird enthusiasts will find plenty to discover throughout the seasons. Keep an eye out for African fish eagles soaring overhead, kingfishers darting along the dam, grey herons wading through the shallows, cormorants drying their wings in the sun, colourful bee-eaters, weavers, hoopoes, sunbirds and the unmistakable call of the hadeda ibis. Whether you're an avid birder or simply enjoying your morning coffee, the soundtrack of birdsong is part of everyday life at Klipkopje.

For us, this landscape has always been more than beautiful scenery. It is a place that invites you to slow down, notice the small moments, and experience the quiet beauty of life in nature.

Klipkopje Today

While the landscape continues to evolve, our vision for Klipkopje remains beautifully simple: to care for this land and share it in a way that honours both nature and our family's legacy.

Caring for the land is a collective effort. Our wonderful team has taken the initiative to create their own vegetable garden, lovingly planted and tended by Lucy and Jonathan. Grown for the team to enjoy, it's a reflection of the pride they take in the farm and the sustainable way of life we're encouraging at Klipkopje.

Our farm manager, Rocky, lives on the property with his family and is the heart of the farm's day-to-day life. His dedication, knowledge and genuine care ensure that every corner of Klipkopje is looked after with the same love and attention that has shaped it over the years.

While the three of us are busy carrying forward our family's jewellery business—Summer and Chanelle from Johannesburg, and Shayna from the United Kingdom—Klipkopje remains home. We return as often as we can, and each visit reminds us why this place means so much to our family.

The luxury tent is only the beginning of what we hope to create here. As Klipkopje continues to grow, our commitment remains the same: to protect this remarkable landscape, honour our mother's vision, and share this little piece of heaven with everyone who visits.

The Farmhouse

Discover the Lowveld

Only minutes from White River and within easy reach of the Kruger National Park, Klipkopje offers the perfect base from which to discover one of South Africa's most beautiful regions. Whether you're seeking adventure, exceptional food or quiet moments in nature, there's something for everyone nearby.

  • Kruger National Park – Spend the day on a self-drive safari or guided game drive in one of the world's most iconic wildlife reserves.

  • Panorama Route – Discover breathtaking landscapes including God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes, Lisbon Falls and the magnificent Blyde River Canyon.

  • White River – Wander through charming cafés, artisan bakeries, boutiques, galleries and local markets in the nearby town.

  • Longmere Dam – Perfect for swimming, water sports, kayaking, fishing, picnics or simply enjoying the peaceful waterfront.

  • Kaapsehoop – Visit this historic mountain village, famous for its wild horses, misty forests and scenic hiking trails.

  • Sabie – Explore waterfalls, forest walks, mountain biking trails and one of the country's most beautiful drives.

  • Graskop Gorge Lift – Descend into an indigenous forest via the glass lift before exploring elevated walkways through the canopy.

  • Sudwala Caves – Venture underground through one of the oldest cave systems on Earth.

  • Local cafés & restaurants – Enjoy everything from relaxed breakfasts and artisan coffee to fine dining and farm-to-table experiences.

  • Wine, gin & craft beer tastings – Discover local breweries, distilleries and wineries throughout the Lowveld.

  • Hiking & cycling – Explore scenic trails winding through forests, mountains and surrounding farmland.

  • Golf – Play a round at one of the region's beautiful golf courses, surrounded by spectacular scenery.

  • Horse riding – Experience guided rides through forests, countryside and mountain trails.

  • Adventure activities – Go ziplining, quad biking, river rafting or canopy touring for an adrenaline-filled day.

  • Birdwatching – The Lowveld is home to an incredible diversity of birdlife, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.