It started out as a simple farmhouse, with a humble west-facing veranda. Then came curvaceous Dutch gables and various extensions and additions. Eighty years later, Kurland is a 700-hectare property with multiple faces.

Many people still famously associate Kurland for its lush polo fields, glamourous equestrian events, and accompanying boutique hotel. In the last few years, however, the estate has evolved into an exclusive-use location, boasting private luxury accommodation options and exquisite event facilities.

We like to think of Kurland as being the perfect place to let go of real life for a little while and find a true escape for your soul. From the beginning, when Kurland’s first guests trundled down from then ‘Transvaal’ in dust-covered cars, thirsty with great bonhomie, we knew it was a special place that would have a different but equally intoxicating effect on each and every visitor. Kurland has all the ingredients you need to enjoy the good life, you simply need to arrive and go with the flow.

While Kurland is today perhaps most famously known for its five lush polo fields and glamourous equestrian events, the lesser-known Kurland experience – loved and lived in for over three generations – lies in staying in the 12-suite luxury Homestead (sleeping up to 44 people) and 5-bedroom exclusive-use Villa (sleeping up to 16 guests).

The interiors of the Homestead are as beautiful as the outdoors; each light, airy tableau striking a unique balance between breath-taking space and flourishes of colour. The finishes are pure sophistication and perfection, artfully mixed with books and antiques to give each room a sense of depth and storytelling, but also thoughtfully designed for comfort, fun, and cherished family memories.

In short, the Kurland guest experience is both authentically heartfelt and homely, but also utterly opulent and abundant. It’s the perfect place – and wide open space – to take a deep breath and push pause; to spend quality time surrounded by those you love, in a setting that serves up just the right kind of understated splendour.

Framed by natural backdrops like the majestic Tsitsikamma Mountains, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to experiences to enjoy with your loved ones.

By day, soak up the beautifully moderate Cape climate and enjoy the great outdoors. Play tennis. Plan a picnic under the trees. Or take your dogs for a walk and set off exploring the paths that criss-cross the estate. You’ll pass generous vegetable gardens and thriving beehives along the way, all the while listening to the happy sounds of clucking chickens in the background.

As the sun sets on the stoep, enjoy a sundowner and try your hand at a board game or billiards match. Then, when the stars come out to play, put your feet up and enjoy the crackle of a roaring fireplace while you catch up on some quality time.

Kurland Estate owner, Nicky Elphick, says she never tires of hearing from her guests that Kurland is the perfect antidote to the stress of city living. “It’s warm and welcoming, but also entirely private. You can come and go as you please, and you can set whatever pace you want for the day.”

Whether your stay is for a special wedding, a long weekend break, or a long overdue family holiday, Kurland is as perfectly suited for small, intimate gatherings as it is for big, bold, magnificently extravagant affairs. Best of all, it’s easily accessible from the airport in Plettenberg Bay (25 minutes away).