Welcome to Oewerzicht:
A Journey with Kootjie and Isa Viljoen
Hello! We’re Kootjie and Isa Viljoen, and we’re eager to share the incredible journey of our paradise, Oewerzicht. This is more than just a place; it’s an adventurous lifestyle grounded in sustainability, community, and the occasional visit from Frikkie, our Boxer! We’re proud to say that we raised our three amazing kids—Catherien, our eldest, and the lively duo, Danielle and Phillip (the twins). Come along as we celebrate the lively chaos and distinctive charm of our remarkable haven!
What is Oewerzicht?
Oewerzicht is a unique destination located alongside a tranquil riverside near Greyton in the Western Cape, where the beauty of nature meets innovative living. It serves as a retreat in the Overberg for those looking to reconnect with the environment and experience the serenity of rural life.
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Why Did We Create Oewerzicht?
Our journey began with a simple dream: to create a haven where people could escape the hustle and bustle of modern life. We both have a deep-rooted love for nature, and we wanted to share that with others. Our mission is to promote sustainability and environmental consciousness while providing a warm, welcoming space for everyone who visits.
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Our Vision for Oewerzicht
At Oewerzicht, we envision a space that thrives on the principles of:
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Sustainability: We utilize eco-friendly practices. Our commitment to the environment is at the heart of everything we do.
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Community: We believe in the power of connection. Oewerzicht is not just a destination; it’s a community where people come together to share experiences, stories, and friendships.
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Adventure: With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, Oewerzicht is an adventure lover's dream. From hiking and fishing to bird-watching, there's something for everyone.
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Our Story
Oewerzicht was originally part of the Matjiesgat farm. Following our marriage in June 1999, we aspired to own our own farm, and the opportunity arose sooner than anticipated. We officially purchased Zoetkraal, which was a section of Matjiesgat Farm on December 30, 1999, and we were genuinely excited about this significant opportunity. To make it our own, we named the farm Oewerzicht.
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In 2000, we undertook the transformation of our original farmhouse into a welcoming accommodation for guests. By 2001, we expanded our offerings with the addition of Citrus Cottage, strategically located within a nartjie orchard. This unique cottage features a distinctive bed crafted from an old wine tank, along with a well-appointed flatlet situated behind the cottage.
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We recognized the growing demand for a beautiful wedding and function space back in 2003. In 2004, we took a significant step by converting the 4 Uitsig cottages, enhancing our offerings to create unforgettable experiences for our guests.
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Over the years, we've put a lot of love into Oewerzicht. It all started with a bare landscape, but now it's a beautiful green space thanks to our hard work. In 2020, we noticed that wedding trends and markets were changing, so we revamped our Lapa to double as a private campsite for bigger groups.