Waterfall Farm A laid-back escape for rest, relaxation And memorable get-togethers.
Van Reenen, South Africa
waterfall farm
Set beneath Nelson’s Kop in the Van Reenen mountains of the Free State, Waterfall Farm is where simple pleasures meet spectacular views — and where guests (four-legged ones included) are always welcome.
Just 3½ hours from both Johannesburg and Durban, we’re perfectly placed for a proper weekend away — not just a rushed stopover.
Whether you're here for a birthday bash, a laid-back function, a family gathering or just some much-needed time out, Waterfall Farm is built for it. With the pristine Wilge River winding through the property and our one-of-a-kind Waterfall Lodge perched above the falls, this is a place where you can slow down, spread out and feel right at home.
Stay With us
We’ve got four unique cottages — each with their own charm — ready to welcome you. No hotel stiffness, just proper comfort, countryside views, and a real sense of home.
Waterfall River Lodge
Waterfall Lodge is a secluded, fully equipped self-catering home for 8–10 guests, nestled deep within a working farm in Van Reenen. Overlooking a pristine stretch of the Wilge River and framed by the dramatic backdrop of Nelson’s Kop and a private waterfall, it offers a rare sense of stillness and uninterrupted natural beauty.
Click to view larger images.
Click to view larger images.
The Stone Cottage
Lovingly restored and full of character, The Stone Cottage is a charming self-catering escape for up to six guests. Built in 1902 by the original Dillon family and set on a working farm in Van Reenen, it’s a peaceful, family-friendly retreat within walking distance of the iconic Wilge River waterfall.
Outdoorsy Extras
Waterfall Farm is a proper working farm with space to roam, relax and explore:
- Swim in the river
- Try a bit of fly-fishing
- Hike to the waterfall
- Climb big rocks and spot little creatures (keep an eye out for our rare Sungazer lizard)
- View Bushman paintings
- Toast marshmallows under a blanket of stars
Dogs are welcome, kids can run wild, and everyone’s free to breathe a little easier.
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a little family history
The Dillon family has called Waterfall Farm home since the end of the Anglo-Boer War. Our stone barn was once a goods shed in Van Reenen, carefully dismantled and brought here — stone by stone, ox wagon by ox wagon — over a century ago.
It’s been a dairy, a shearing shed, a party spot, and now — after our son James and his fiancée Kelly chose it for their wedding — a one-of-a-kind venue with a story in every sandstone block.
We’re a farming family, not hoteliers. But we know what makes a place feel special — and we’ve built Waterfall Farm to share that with you.
a place to gather – your way
Looking to host a weekend away with mates? A big birthday? A harvest table lunch under the oaks? Waterfall Farm is set up for it all — and you get to do it your way.
We offer a relaxed, flexible space with no packages, no pressure, and no need to ask permission to hang your own bunting.
Our rustic stone barn is full of charm and completely customisable. Host drinks under the stars, set up long tables in the courtyard, or keep it casual with picnic blankets and braais on the lawn.
There’s plenty of room — up to 150 seated guests — and a few unique spots to play with:
- A character-filled old tracker shed (great for speeches, dinners or dancing)
- A covered courtyard and bar for pre-dinner drinks or grazing tables
- Open lawns and shady trees for tents, games or outdoor gatherings
It’s a proper farm setting — open skies, Nguni cattle in the background, and the sounds of the river not too far off. You bring the people, the ideas and whatever else you need. We’ll bring the space and the view.
Get in Touch
Friends, family, and even your furry companions are all welcome at Waterfall Lodge! Slow down, escape the hustle and bustle, bask in the sunlight, swim in the river, and make unforgettable memories together.