It’s true that Greenwood Guide owners are a welcoming bunch, but the Bates go far beyond the call of duty. Actually, I don’t think they see it as a duty at all. In fact, I know they don’t! Hemmed in by mountains and a meander of the Mgeni River, the farm is in a world of its own, but in easy reach of the major routes. All four Bates (plus assorted hounds) are utterly charming and you’re encouraged to participate in their farm and life as much or as little as you like. Talk about a welcome! We were hardly out of the car before we had a greedy calf and a bottle of milk in hand. Half an hour later we were bringing the horses in for feeding. Then just time for a bobble over the fields looking at pregnant cows before a delicious and greatly entertaining dinner with the family. Tom and Lucinda are serious horse-lovers, breeding and schooling polo ponies. Polo players are more than welcome for a weekend knock-about on the makeshift riverside pitch. Otherwise you can fish, walk or swim pretty much anywhere you want. If you’ve got a 4×4, you’re encouraged to hit the trail that will take you to a fantastic waterfall and leave you with breathtaking views of the Midmar Dam and Dargle Valley. The farmhouse itself (1800s) goes on forever and guests have the choice of their own wing, a pot-planted patio with stunning views across the valley, good-sized bedrooms and a basic kitchen; or a cottage which also has a large verandah with a commanding view over the valley and two large bedrooms. But even if you had to lie on a bed of spikes, I’d still recommend Inversanda! This is a place that allows you to unburden yourself of the tourist mantle and truly feel part of what’s going on.

We really enjoyed the peace and beauty of your farm. We will definitely be back. Very friendly hosts made us feel at home. Thanx!

We enjoyed our stay in your comfortable, tasteful accommodation and wished we could have lingered longer!

We will absolutely be back in September. Thank you so much for the wonderful time – the kids loved it so much!

It was very relaxing and we loved it! A home away from home!

A warm welcome, blue skies, FRESH air and peace….. Thanks.

A wonderful retreat from the city madness! Relaxing, peaceful in superb accommodation. Hope to be back soon.

What a treat. We really enjoyed it from the first minute. Hope to be back soon.

What a relaxing time we had. Slowed down to hear the birds singing and yourself think. Thanks so much for the warm hospitality.