A Message from the Editor
Dear Wyndford Family,
What a quarter it has been. Looking back on January, February and March 2026, I am genuinely moved by the warmth you all bring to this old farm. From the sparkle of Hogmanay fires on New Year’s Eve to Easter egg hunts echoing across the lawns, your presence is what makes Wyndford alive.
It has also been a season of quiet but meaningful change behind the scenes – a new liquor licence, a curated wine list, renovations, new partnerships, and the early chapters of a history that deserves to be told properly. I am grateful to every one of you who has been part of this journey.
CHRISTMAS & A SCOTTISH HOGMANAY
Wyndford closed out 2025 in magnificent style. Christmas was celebrated in full farm fashion, and then, as the bells struck midnight on New Year’s Eve, we leaned into something special – a Scottish Hogmanay to mark Wyndford’s 105-year Scottish legacy.
Guests gathered for traditional Scottish games, storytelling, and folk tales that transported us all to the rugged highlands – right here in the Eastern Free State. It was a fitting tribute to the deep Scottish roots of this region.
Fouriesburg & Scotland – A Hidden History
Few people know that Fouriesburg holds a remarkable Scottish connection. Rachel Isabella Fraser – wife of President M.T. Steyn, the last President of the Orange Free State – was of Scottish descent. When Fouriesburg became the final capital of the OFS during the Anglo-Boer War before it fell to the British, she was among those who sheltered here. That heritage runs through this valley, and through Wyndford.
VALENTINE’S DAY – THE LONG TABLE
February brought romance to the Wyndford Restaurant. We hosted a candlelit long-table dinner for Valentine’s Day, paired with a curated selection from our new wine list. Couples from near and far gathered around one shared table – a beautiful reminder that good food and good wine are best enjoyed in good company.
We look forward to making this an annual tradition. Watch this space for next year’s booking dates.
OUR LIQUOR LICENCE & BOUTIQUE WINE PROGRAMME
This has been one of the most meaningful milestones in Wyndford’s recent story. After a long process, we are proud to hold our liquor licence – and to have built a wine programme we are truly proud of.
I personally travelled through the Western Cape, visiting estates from Robertson to Franschhoek, Stellenbosch to the Cederberg, to hand-select wines that reflect quality, character, and value. Our list spans nine estates and covers everything from crisp Sauvignon Blancs and textured Chenin Blancs to bold Cabernets and earthy Shiraz blends.
Our Wine Philosophy
We source directly at cellar door – which means you enjoy estate-quality wine at honest pricing. Our bottle prices are set to reward loyalty, not maximise margin. We want wine to be part of your Wyndford experience, not a barrier to it.
A curated Wyndford wine cellar is coming soon – a carefully chosen selection available for guests to purchase and take home.
We understand that many of our longstanding guests have always brought their own wine – and that tradition is still welcome. A modest corkage fee will apply. We appreciate your understanding as we work to build a sustainable operation that can serve this community for another 105 years.
EASTER AT WYNDFORD
Easter was joyful, full and everything a farm holiday should be. The Wyndford Restaurant served a special seasonal menu, and the farm came alive with the sounds of children hunting Easter eggs across the lawns and gardens.
We also held a farm church service – a quiet, meaningful moment to gather together before the festivities. It has become one of my favourite Wyndford traditions
RENOVATIONS & NEW SPACES
We are currently in the process of converting our coffee shop into a new, dedicated reception area – a more welcoming first impression for every guest who arrives at Wyndford.
In its place, the former staff lounge and storage area will be transformed into a Wyndford Farm Shop, stocking locally sourced products – jams, preserves, dried goods, farm produce and more. Many of these items will also be available through our online shop, which is launching soon.
Farm Shop
Local products, farm-fresh goods, and Wyndford pantry staples. Coming soon in the new reception building.
Online Shop
Order Wyndford products from home. Our online shop will launch later this year – sign up to be notified first.
THE WYNDFORD HISTORY BOOK – BE PART OF IT
I am writing a Wyndford coffee table book – a prestige hardcover publication telling the authentic story of this farm across 105 years. Through four seasons, through the land, through the food, and through the people who have been changed by a stay here.
But the most powerful stories are not mine to tell. They are yours. We are formally inviting every guest – past and present – to contribute. A written memory, a personal photograph, or both. A meal shared, a child’s first encounter with the animals, a wedding morning, a winter fire. The moments that stayed with you.
Contribute and receive 10% off your next stay
Every guest who submits a genuine story or photograph – whether or not it appears in the final printed book – will receive a personal 10% discount code, valid for 12 months from the September 2026 launch.
Submissions close 30 June 2026
WhatsApp us on: +27 58 223 0268 (start your message with “History Book”)
OR
HELP US BUILD THE WYNDFORD FARM EXPERIENCE
We are expanding what the farm offers for children and families – more animals, more activities, more of those moments that turn a holiday into something a child carries with them for life.
Tell us what your family would love to find at Wyndford. Which animals should your children meet? What activities would make your stay more magical? Your ideas go directly to us.
SKI SEASON 2026 – BOOK NOW
June to August is snow season, and Wyndford remains the closest South African accommodation to Afriski Mountain Resort, with Caledonspoort just down the road.
Rooms are filling up quickly. If a ski trip is on your list for 2026, now is the time to secure your dates.
Book your ski stay:
www.wyndford.co.za · reception@wyndford.co.za
NEW PARTNERSHIP: CLARENS GOLF ESTATE
We are pleased to announce a cooperation agreement with Clarens Golf Estate. Guests can now book their golf rounds directly when making a Wyndford reservation – online or at reception.
The Clarens course is a magnificent 18-hole championship layout set against the Maluti Mountains. It is the perfect complement to a Wyndford stay for golfers looking to combine rest and recreation.
WYNDFORD FAMILY NEWS
A farm is only as warm as the people who run it, and this quarter brought both farewells and joyful new beginnings to our team.
Farewell – Shawn & Suria
We say a heartfelt goodbye to Shawn, our Maintenance Manager, and Suria, our Receptionist, who have both moved on to explore new opportunities. They were part of the Wyndford story during a pivotal chapter, and we wish them every success in the road ahead.
Welcome – Werner & Lise Fourie
We are delighted to welcome Werner and Lise Fourie to the Wyndford family – along with their four children. Werner joins us as Maintenance Manager and Lise as Receptionist and Admin Assistant. Having a young family on the farm brings exactly the kind of energy and heart that Wyndford is built on. We are so glad you are here.
A New Arrival – Congratulations Denise & Erard!
January brought wonderful news to the Hugo household. Denise, our Frontline Manager, and Erard, our Gardens and Guest Relations Manager, welcomed their baby boy into the world. We could not be more thrilled for them both. The Wyndford family just got a little bigger.
Welcome – Pulane Nel Sekepe, Wedding & Events Coordinator
We are thrilled to welcome Pulane Nel Sekepe to the Wyndford team as our in-house Wedding and Events Coordinator. Pulane brings exceptional credentials – she is an OFM radio host and a recurring actress on Binnelanders, and has coordinated large-scale corporate events and weddings for local and international clients across South Africa. She is warm, professional, and exactly the person you want in your corner when planning something unforgettable.
Planning your special day with us?
Contact Pulane at weddings@wyndford.co.za
Welcome – Anita Skors
With all the exciting changes and the new road ahead for Wyndford, we are delighted to also welcome Anita Skors to the Wyndford family. Anita joins us as our Stock Controller and will also assist at Reception when needed.
Anita brings with her extensive experience in stock control, having worked at one of our suppliers in Fouriesburg since 2021. What was once one of our valued local suppliers has now become part of our own team, and we are incredibly excited to have her on board. Her knowledge, dedication, and attention to detail will make her a vital part of Wyndford’s future growth and success.
Welcome – Themba Mbele
We are also excited to welcome Themba Mbele to the Wyndford team as our Barman and Barista. Themba has a remarkable talent for creating unique coffees and speciality drinks, and we cannot wait for our guests to experience his creativity firsthand.
His passion, energy, and skill behind the bar will bring something truly special to the Wyndford experience, and we know he will become an important part of our future as we continue to grow and evolve.
A Note of Gratitude
Turning Wyndford around has been one of the most challenging and rewarding things we have ever taken on. None of it would be possible without the loyalty of this community. Every booking, every bottle of wine ordered at dinner, every share of our content – it all matters more than you know.
Thank you for being the reason we keep going. We look forward to welcoming you back to the farm.
With warm regards,
Jandré du Plessis
Managing Director · Wyndford Holiday Farm