ABOUT US
Crab Apple’s philosophy is to stay close to nature and be of service to the community – an extension of our Christian ministry. Determined to preserve the natural beauty of the area, Barend and Helen are active members of the Dargle Conservancy. The property is a Nature Reserve under the Biodiversity Stewardship Programme. For more about the Dargle Conservancy visit www.dargleconservancy.org.za

OUR CATS
Bramble and Rose have taken over The Owl House (which was intended for actual owls) and created a charming midlands version of the poem “The Owl and The Pussycat” – without the pea green boat, of course.
OUR CHICKENS
Marmaduke is our splendid Venda rooster, one of South Africa’s hardy indigenous breeds. He is confident and very protective of his girls, so best not to try to stroke him.
The two Duchesses simply adore their leading man! The family has hatched and nurtured many chicks and provided many eggs for breakfast. Their feed is sourced from the farmer next door and the mielies are ground on site.
OUR DOGS
We have a pair of black Labrador siblings Daisy-Mae and Harley. Lily-Jenna Cuddlepot Fainting Goat is our chocolate Labrador. She has a tendency to fall over arbitrarily and a cuddling fetish, which accounts for her long-winded name. A fabulous swimmer, she is often found gliding around in the pool (even if the net’s on) and occasionally arrives home dripping after swimming in the river. The Squimonks, Dixie and Jessie Buttons, are the two Jack Russell x Dachshunds and are key to farm life. They love playing with the monkeys as they move through the property. They will also let you know when Porcupines, Bush Pigs and Dassies are about. Jessie Buttons has a lifelong mission of digging to Australia and is impressive to watch at work. While you are welcome to play with the pets, please resist sharing your food with them and giving them treats.
OUR HORSES
Lady Asher loves the company of children, particularly those with special needs. Lady Eva, Lord Guildenstern and Lord Rosencrantz are young Boerperd x Friesians who are generous and curious in nature. Robin Hood is a Connemara, bold, feisty and sensible. Hullabaloo, dappled grey Friesian cross, is the gorgeous ‘hunk’ of the line and knows just how handsome he is.
The horses are competitive and each has a very carefully balanced diet and a specifically designed training programme. Please don’t feed them. They do, however, love being stroked. Chat to one of us if you would like to interact with them. They aren’t, however, available for riding.