Bluegum Cottage B&B @ the Garlic House

This large modern cottage in Smithfield, Free State is ideal accommodation for singles, couples and especially families up to 6 people.

The cottage is called the Bluegum Cottage because of the ancient blue gum tree on the property. The town was established in 1848 and I’m sure it was the 1st tree planted. The width of the tree is the length of a car! It’s really a special old giant.

Both B&B and Self Catering accommodation in one, the good quality beds and linens, electric blankets, DSTV, free Wi-Fi, generous sized full bathroom, kitchen/lounge and dining area provide everything you need to have a comfortable nights stay. A recently installed solar system together with my own water from the old windmill make sure we can provide you with the essentials 24/7!!!

The Bluegum Cottage is the guest wing of my Garlic House (I used to grow a lot of garlic), a beautiful old 18th century building and home of owner/artist jeweller, Kitty Schneider. Set in a large private property with lots of secure off street parking, it lies in the quiet and peaceful area of Smithfield. It is also far away from the sounds of traffic on the N6 which passes through town. (instead of loud trucks i the night you will hear frogs!). Privacy, peace and quiet ensure a good nights sleep. The farm-like garden has no light pollution, so you can see the milkyway beautifully, especially on those crisp winter nights.

There are three rooms, two bedrooms with queen size beds and another large room with the kitchen/dining/lounge area and two single beds. One bedroom is upstairs with a large balcony with views all around Smithfield and our “mountain”! Large windows provide lots of natural light and views into the organic farm-like garden.

The owner Kitty Schneider is a retired  jewellery artist whose quirky sense of decor has made the cottage something unusual and unique. Hand made steps with pieces of broken plates and mirrors, the shower floor made from pebbles collected at the beach and the hand forged burglar bars in the shapes of birds, fishes, cats and flowers, are some of examples of attention to detail I have used to create this space. The cottage is also spacious, simple and uncluttered. I also make and sell earrings made from bottle caps from wine and spirit bottles.

There are two dogs and one ancient cat on the property, so pets are only allowed with prior arrangement. There is a plunge pool for hot summer afternoons and plenty of space in the garden for children to run around. There is excellent 4G cellphone coverage and up to 100mbps free wifi.

I also make very delicious  dinners for guests with prior arrangement. My famous spaghetti bolognese is a favorite for guests with children,  but you can also enjoy local lamb chops or local steak with delicious steamed veg for dinner. I also make vegetarian food like chickpea curry, for example. Cereals/tea and coffee are included in the accommodation price.