Why we called it Huis Agt

Huis Agt stands at number 8 Piet Retief Street, and agt is simply Afrikaans for eight. We wanted a name that was short, easy to say in any language and rooted in the place, and the house number turned out to be the most honest choice.

The three units are named after the colours of the Riebeek Valley through the year. Goud is the gold of ripe wheat in summer, when the Swartland turns the colour of bread crust. Groen is the bright green of young wheat after the winter rains. Silwer is the grey-silver of the olive leaves that line so many of the valley's farms.

There is a small coincidence we only found later. On one of the mountain-bike routes out of the village there is a viewpoint with a sculpture of the number 8. Guests who ride it tend to send us a photo.

However you pronounce it, we hope it starts to feel like your house in the valley.