Piet Schoeman grew up in the fertile Schoemanshoek Valley, just 15km outside of Oudtshoorn. His father was a humble vegetable and tobacco farmer. Piet's father taught him to be a hard worker, and today he can honour his father by the heritage that they built at Berluda. This 10th generation family farm was lovingly restored and guests can enjoy the peacefulness and beautiful views of the Swartberg Mountains from their cottage. He and his wife Laura invite you to share this beautiful valley with them. It has always been a dream in their hearts to make a difference in their community, and 4 years ago they started a small pre-school centre for the children of the community. This has now grown to over a hundred children. Already the impact can be seen on the lives of these vulnerable children. An arts and crafts project was also started that offers employment to many of the mothers of the children at the school. They create products from ostrich materials such as ostrich eggs and feathers. These can be seen and bought at the gift shop at Berluda. A local artist is steering this project on a voluntary basis.

In the picturesque Schoemanshoek Valley, halfway between Oudtshoorn and the Cango Caves, lies Berluda, an intimate guesthouse and self-catering family destination. Come and experience sincere South African farm hospitality, while enjoying the many activities our farm has to offer. Our restaurant offers dinner and breakfast (the latter included in your room rate), while you also have the opportunity to enjoy your own BBQ in the privacy of your cottage. No need to bring anything, we provide the food, the firewood - all you have to do is grill your own meat! Choose from ostrich, beef, venison or Karoo lamb. Join an exclusive tour of our working ostrich farm. This tour is presented with an animal friendly alternative, with no riding of ostriches. Also an encounter with our meerkat family, is not to be missed. Berluda is a bird-watchers' paradise, and a walk in the hills will give you a glimpse of the beautiful and rare indigenous Karoo vegetation. There are also hiking and mountain biking opportunities, as well as stargazing. Pet friendly cottages available on request, regret no pets or children below 12 in the farmhouse rooms. A family friendly experience that you will never forget.

The warm climate of the Little Karoo, offers over 300 sunny days per year. So sightseeing can be done in glorious sunshine throughout the year. Even the mild winters invite guests to enjoy the many hiking and mountain biking trails. The exclusive ostrich farm tours, the meerkat encounter, sunset drives, and fishing are just a few of the many activities that we offer in and around Berluda. Winetasting is within walking distance from Berluda, and the port wine capital of South Africa, Calitzdorp, is just. half an hour drive away. Berluda is within easy reach of the Cango Caves, the magnificent Swartberg Pass and the imposing Meiringspoort. The quaint villages of De Rust and Prince Albert, is also only a short drive away. We recommend a 2-3 night stay to make the most of your Little Karoo stay.