Activities around Hogsback Area

Fly Fishing

The great charm of fly-fishing is that we are always learning.
Theodore Gordon

Lowestoffe Country Lodge is popular for fly fishing with four stocked trout dams, a bass dam and a river full of Yellow fish.

Lowestoffe and Poplar Dams are located on Lowestoffe Farm, both within walking distance of Trout Lodge and Walnut Cottage. The other two Trout dams, closer to Rockford, are situated on Woodhouselea Farm and are accessible by 2x4 LDVs. The bass dam is also a comfortable stroll from both Mountain Lodge and Rockford Lodge.

The Klipplaat River meanders through the farm for 18km. There are numerous deep pools to catch Yellow fish during the summer months, when the fish travel upstream to spawn in the warmer waters.

We do not provide fishing equipment, so please bring your own.

Horse Trail Rides

In riding a horse we borrow freedom.
Helen Thomson

One of the best ways to experience these beautiful surroundings is a 2 hour guided horse trail ride.

There are 5500 hectares to explore with trail rides up into the mountainous areas or along the scenic Klipplaat River.

We have horses suitable for both beginner and experienced riders. If you are used to being in the saddle and would like a longer ride, please contact Robyn on 083 654 5935.

Birds & Wild Flowers

Earth laughs in flowers.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

Lowestoffe Country Lodge offers a diverse birding experience; falling within the grassland biome it provides access to a variety of habitats including: wetlands, dams, grasslands, mountains and rocky ridges, a perennial river and an indigenous forested kloof.

The mountainous regions of the Elandsberg are home to the majestic Verreaux’s Eagle while the grasslands draw breeding pairs of both the regal Blue and Grey Crowned Cranes. It is a delight to catch a glimpse of the lanky-legged Secretary bird striding through the veld, breaking into an awkward, loping trot when disturbed.

The dams and wetlands attract a wide range of waterfowl while the grasslands abound with life and diversity. Due to the abundance of small prey there are also numerous predatory birds such as owls, buzzards, hawks and falcons.

While in the area there is the opportunity to see the endemic, endangered Cape parrots living in the indigenous forests of Hogsback.

There are numerous wild flowers to see. A hike through the veld will reveal many beautiful flower species but the most famous is the rare Disa Lugen orchid – in flower from the end of November to the end of December. Botanists and wild flower enthusiasts from around the world visit these special orchids.

Hiking, Biking & Trail Running

Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.
John Muir

Lowestoffe Country Lodge provides the perfect location for active people who love the outdoors and wide open spaces. There are 5500 hectares to explore, whether hiking, biking or running.

Bring your mountain bikes: there are easy routes for the kids and a challenging ride up the Elandsberg for the more adventurous. There are many scenic rides in the area, and trip down the Happy Valley road is worthwhile. Alternatively, cycle into Hogsback for breakfast or a cup of tea.

For the keen trail runner, there are both easy and challenging options available. Take on the Elandsberg, up a zig-zagging track, and be rewarded with breath-taking views.

Lowestoffe Country Lodge is a popular destination for hiking and slackpacking clubs. Put on those hiking boots, pack a snack and set off to discover the many picturesque spots on the farm.

Farm activities & San paintings

We have neglected the truth that a good farmer is a craftsman of the highest order, a kind of artist.
Wendell Berry

Lowestoffe is a 5th generation farming operation. Summer and autumn is lambing season, and one never tires of watching new-born lambs suckling from their mothers or charging and pronking vigorously in the pastures in the late afternoon. Shearing occurs in spring, and observing this activity is a worthwhile experience.

Neil and Robyn have applied Regenerative farming practices for over two decades. Learn more about climate change adaptation initiatives that are regenerating our grasslands while sequestering excess carbon in the soil.

There are San paintings to see on a cliff overlooking the Klipplaat River. Pack a picnic and head off to the river to view these interesting relics of a by gone age.