Sustainable Living

At Watermill Farm we are immersed in unspoilt nature. We are surrounded by pristine veldt, clean air, and pure water that comes from a natural spring that bubbles out of the mountain from an ancient limestone aquifer. We are very aware of how privileged we are, and so we take our commitment to the environment and sustainability seriously. In our present day to day living, we do so with care and concern for the environment.
Traditionally built earth structures, although able to stand for centuries, are fully biodegradable. In the restoration process old ways, and the traditional processes were followed, and the ethos of Reduce, Re-use and Recycle was adhered to. Environmentally acceptable alternatives to modern day chemicals were opted for... lime instead of cement; whitewash instead of paint; Envirotouch Pro-Nature range for varnishes and sealants; and Breathecoat as a waterproofing for the showers and bathrooms etc.
The farm is run on organic lines. We do not use either chemical fertilizers or pesticides, and we are rewarded with an abundance of wildlife and vast number of different bees. We have planted specific trees, shrubs and herbs to attract a variety of birds, butterflies, bees and other insects to maintain bio-diversity and to act as natural predators for garden pests. We have installed our own solar power systems so that we can live a modern lifestyle entirely off the national grid, although we presently still make use of a limited amount of gas to ensure our comfort. The grey water from our kitchens is filtered and cleansed through banana circles and we use natural enzymes to break down the black water in the septic tanks. Where possible, the cleaning materials used on the farm are bio-degradable. We use bicarb instead of bleach, bio-degradable dish-washing liquid and general purpose cleaners, and triple orange gel for our laundry.
We welcome those who wish to experience a life lived closer to the elements and nature, and in our guest cottages we invite you to step back into a timeless world; one of simplicity... surrounded by nature, with the glow of candles, and a wood-burning Dover stove for comforting warmth.
Traditionally built earth structures, although able to stand for centuries, are fully biodegradable. In the restoration process old ways, and the traditional processes were followed, and the ethos of Reduce, Re-use and Recycle was adhered to. Environmentally acceptable alternatives to modern day chemicals were opted for... lime instead of cement; whitewash instead of paint; Envirotouch Pro-Nature range for varnishes and sealants; and Breathecoat as a waterproofing for the showers and bathrooms etc.
The farm is run on organic lines. We do not use either chemical fertilizers or pesticides, and we are rewarded with an abundance of wildlife and vast number of different bees. We have planted specific trees, shrubs and herbs to attract a variety of birds, butterflies, bees and other insects to maintain bio-diversity and to act as natural predators for garden pests. We have installed our own solar power systems so that we can live a modern lifestyle entirely off the national grid, although we presently still make use of a limited amount of gas to ensure our comfort. The grey water from our kitchens is filtered and cleansed through banana circles and we use natural enzymes to break down the black water in the septic tanks. Where possible, the cleaning materials used on the farm are bio-degradable. We use bicarb instead of bleach, bio-degradable dish-washing liquid and general purpose cleaners, and triple orange gel for our laundry.
We welcome those who wish to experience a life lived closer to the elements and nature, and in our guest cottages we invite you to step back into a timeless world; one of simplicity... surrounded by nature, with the glow of candles, and a wood-burning Dover stove for comforting warmth.