Accommodation
Hillside Farm is ideally located for weary travellers to break their journey or for a family to experience Free State farm life. The farm is situated 135km south of Bloemfontein, roughly halfway between Bloemfontein and Colesberg, only 1km from the N1, and out of sight of the main road, behind a koppie
The original bedroom and lounge, built in 1929, have retained a strong sense of history through the use of authentic building materials.
The cosy lounge beckons you to enjoy a glass of sherry in front of the fireplace whilst the enormous main bedroom allows you to marvel at the night sky
In keeping with the original farmhouse, parquet flooring, slate tiles, and homely furnishings envelop guests in comfort and timeless quality.
The former Hillside Primary School, which was used in the 1980’s and 90’s has been converted into guest accommodation. The setting is simple and rustic.

The swimming pool is being converted to a natural pool, please bear with the team while they navigate these previously unchartered waters! We apologise in advance for any unforeseen detours, ie. murky water or amphibian swimming mates!

Hillside Farm offers outdoor activities in an environment of rugged beauty and working farm life ambiance. Guests are welcome to explore the farm on foot, amble around the garden, take a stroll to the family cemetery, peek into the vegetable garden, go birding or enjoy a traffic free jog. There is something for everyone, whether just an overnight stop or a longer getaway. .

Past the vegetable garden, a tennis court and cricket net invite you to get your blood flowing after your car journey. Guests should bring their own racquets and/or bat.

We also offer a delicious selection of home cooked meals to enjoy in the comfort of your croft. Taking a seasonal approach, our home cooked fare is varied and promises a well satisfied palate.

Every day, a complete continental breakfast is prepared in each lodging, providing a nutritious and satisfying beginning to your day. You can choose from cereals, yoghurt, fresh or stewed fruit poached in rooibos tea, cheese and preserves, fruit juice, and freshly baked muffins. Enjoy a selection of rooibos, Five Roses Ceylon tea, or filter coffee.

Seated comfortably on your verandah or atop a picnic blanket on the lawn, witness a clear night sky that astounds those who take the time to observe the wonder of innumerable stars.
We provide a tasty array of home-cooked meals as an optional extra, allowing you to savor them in the comfort of your croft. Please note that these options may vary based on availability.
Select from Lamb curry – mild heat. A yoghurt-based dish with potato, chickpeas, lemon & almonds, accompanied by basmati rice. Lamb curry – medium heat. A tomato/coconut milk blend with lentils and carrots, served with basmati rice.
Butter chicken, paired with basmati rice. Basil pesto pasta salad, featuring fresh & crunchy greens and topped with either cheese or crispy bacon. Traditional Bobotie, served with basmati rice & a small salad. Lasagne, accompanied by a salad. Hillside chicken & salad wrap. Kiddie meals are available upon request.
All of the above come with dessert.
Bertram Corrie Howell (Barts) first arrived on Hillside farm in 1909, which has been managed by the family for over 100 years since. The generational legacy, as timeless and abiding as the seasons themselves, imparts a distinctive sense of kinship and love for the land. Today, farming operations are overseen by Ian and Kate McLachlan (4th generation) with the lively involvement of their three young sons, Joshua, Luke, and James.
In the meantime, Ian and Kate, farm manager Theunis Kruger, and their team at Hillside, cultivate a strong sense of guardianship over the land and farm, which makes a meaningful difference to the welfare of the community. There is a dedication to service, the land and its people, rooted in having worked together through the years, that imparts not just a shared history, but a valued present and a hopeful future.