Front view of Sir Laurens vd Post's birth place

It was here that the world-renowned author, explorer, philosopher, and mentor to Prince Charles, Sir Laurens van der Post, was born in 1906 and where he spent the first 16 years of his life. The house has been declared a National Monument.

The present owners, Mark Ingle and Doreen Atkinson have converted it into a guesthouse, thereby making it available to those who might appreciate its rich, and often turbulent, heritage.

The proprietors do not live in the house itself and reservations are restricted to one party at a time to ensure total privacy. Guests are able to steep themselves in the timeless tranquillity of the home, completely undisturbed, and indulge themselves in the sense of an almost tangible past.

Back Verandha - ideal for sundowners

A small archive provides copies of correspondence from Sir Laurens (who in later years visited the house several times) as well as information about the history of the house and Philippolis itself.

Veteran journalist and popular TV presenter Denis Becket nominated the VAN DER POST HOUSE as a 'particularly memorable holiday destination' in Getaway magazine.

Those in search of a quiet retreat could do no better than to spend some time in this atmospheric home which has hosted many notables over the years including Jan Smuts, Emily Hobhouse, and Generals Hertzog and De la Rey.

The house comprises four double bedrooms (one with an annex for small children), a large sitting room, a reading room, a sun room, two bathrooms and a fully equipped kitchen with adjoining patio. A very large rambling garden provides ample opportunities for bird watching and there is a farmyard ambience to the grounds.

Autumn Garden

Accommodation is available at R160 p.p. per night (this includes a breakfast basket). Children are welcome and pay half-rates. Well-disciplined pets are allowed. Booking is recommended and a deposit of R200 per day is required.

For reservations please call Mark or Doreen at: