A Story Rooted in the Land, Shaped by Generations
Unveiling the Heritage of Paradyskloof Guest Farm
Paradyskloof Guest Farm is more than just a place to stay—it’s a piece of history nestled in the heart of the Vredefort Dome. Its rich past stretches back over a century, shaped by the people who loved it and the land that continues to inspire all who visit.
From River View to Jakkalsdraai to Paradyskloof
In the early 1900s, the farm was known as “River View”, owned by Ronald Bryne Boucher. Positioned between the ancient ridges and the steady flow of the Vaal River, it was a quiet piece of rural South Africa.
In 1980, Dr. M.N. Hermann purchased the farm, and with his family’s deep connection to the land, they renamed it “Jakkalsdraai”—inspired by the indigenous people’s song “Jakkiesdraai,” which sounded to them like “Jakkalsdraai.” The name felt fitting: jackals crying in the night are a familiar part of life in this wild, beautiful place.
During the summer of 2017, a pair of paradise flycatchers chose the veranda of the old farmhouse as the perfect spot to build their nest. Over the weeks that followed, we had the privilege of quietly observing—and filming—the delicate unfolding of their story: from nest-building to the hatching of tiny chicks, and eventually, their first flight into the surrounding trees.
This beautiful moment in nature inspired the name “Paradyskloof”.
With the farm’s breathtaking natural surroundings, peaceful atmosphere, and a sense of quiet wonder everywhere you look, the name Paradyskloof felt perfectly fitting.
A New Chapter: Paradyskloof Guest Farm
Since 2017 a new chapter started to unfold at Paradyskloof.
We ended up building not just a farm, but a big little farm, a destination, where people want to stay.
The farm has been transformed into a beloved haven, preserving its rustic charm while offering modern comforts. Our mission is to provide guests with an authentic farm experience, celebrating the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
Pecan Orchard
The pecan orchard, originally established in the early 1990s, was expanded.
Comfortable Guest Units
Several original farm buildings were beautifully converted into comfortable guest units.
Manicured Spaces
The gardens were carefully reshaped into manicured spaces filled with indigenous vegetation.
Farm Animals
Farm animals were re-introduced to the farm.
A Land Steeped in History
Paradyskloof sits in one of the most geologically and historically significant landscapes in the world. The area is part of the Vredefort Dome, the oldest and largest meteor impact site on Earth which continues to fascinate scientists and travelers alike.
Today
Paradyskloof Guest Farm carries forward this incredible heritage—combining natural beauty, historic richness, and modern comfort. Each stay is an opportunity to reconnect with the past, explore the landscape, and become part of a story that continues to unfold.
