In the late 17th century, the Dutch Cape Colony granted this land to Barend Janse van Swol, the first in a long line of Dutch heritage owners. These early settlers cultivated the fertile soil, a tradition that has been carried on by their descendants to this very day.

The farm’s history is etched into its landscape, with enduring structures like the old manor house, which was meticulously built and expanded over two centuries. The grand gable at the front of the manor, a testament to craftsmanship, dates back to the 1780s.

In the latter half of the 20th century Vrymansfontein was transformed into a sprawling wine farm, boasting nearly 260 hectares of vineyards and a cellar with a 2000-ton capacity. The farm even housed a brick factory, founded in 1974, using the rich clay soil for the bricks used in constructing its buildings – an unexpected story of sustainable building practices that we proudly carry forward.

Today, sustainability is at the heart of Vrymansfontein. We are passionate about preserving this beautiful piece of land and ensuring that it thrives for generations to come. Our commitment extends beyond almond farming and into conservation and sustainable farming practices, a dedication that is mirrored at Vondeling.

Our commitment to sustainable practices encompasses responsible water management, use of renewable energy solutions, and ensuring the well-being of our 40 strong team who live on the farm. Through innovative irrigation techniques, precision farming, and environmentally conscious pest management, we aim to not only produce high-quality, nourishing almonds but also to be collaborative stewards of the land.

At present, we are actively pursuing a 5-star Green Building rating from the Green Building Council of South Africa. Our efforts include a 200 kva solar installation across available roof space, a move that will halve our electricity consumption. We have also made the conscious decision to exclude borehole water as a source for our venue, reaffirming our dedication to responsible water usage.