Saint Verde Farmhouse

A dreamy, verdant escape in the Natal Midlands, Saint Verde Farmhouse offers travellers and holidaymakers a wild and whimsical escape a short drive from the farming village of Howick, overlooking the Dargle Valley.

Surrounded by Indigenous forests, flowing rivers, lush gardens, meandering walking trails and rolling grassland, the quaint property can accommodate a maximum of eight guests. The spacious home consists of three bedrooms, three bathrooms with freestanding tubs, a pyjama lounge, a fully kitted-out farm-style kitchen, relaxing living and entertaining spaces that open up to a large verandah and sprawling gardens and a courtyard sheltered by bay and lemon trees. To ensure a restful stay, the property is serviced daily and there is an on-site generator.

The home of Neville Trickett and his wife Sharon – true trailblazers and trend forecasters, revered by all as national gems and geniuses – Saint Verde charms from the very first moment with its quirky yet convivial spaces, distinctive decorative touches and playful character.

Affectionately named after the fictitious Patron Saint of Green, the property captivates guests’ imagination and escorts them on a mythical journey of inspiration. Dating back to 1887, the house has been nurtured and restored over time, “revealing the owners’ fantastical storytelling and finesse in style throughout the home,” explains Perfect Hideaways, which manages the property.

“Every piece of furniture, every ornament, every picture and painting, every lampshade, every piece of natural history, every sentimental item of significance has been curated with intention. As if in a museum, yet without any pretence. Exposed yellowwood floors, ironstone and black slate walls, Carrara marble and tall glass doors and windows create a canvas with layers of rich velvets, Egyptian cotton and luxury linen, porcelain, silver, floral prints and an abundance of foliage. Signature pieces by Joan Nelson, and Walton Ford, woodcut Japanese prints and an impressive photographic portfolio hang adjacent to apothecary chests, French cabinetry, writing desks, deep sofas, ottomans and languid loungers, a Gregor Jenkin dining table and many antique collectables that have been sourced from demolished stores.”