The Eastern Free State in South Africa is peppered with beautiful farms hidden in secret valleys. Tucked under hanging cliffs on the slopes of the distinctly shaped sandstone mountains, they are an eternal surprise to the unsuspecting traveller. Very often there is a grand, turn-of-the-century old house on the property, sometimes lovingly preserved, but often crumbling and neglected as it is no longer inhabited. The small towns nestle at the base of the mountains, sometimes overlooking magnificent vistas and they are fast becoming the havens of weary city dwellers, looking for a peaceful, weekend getaway.