Although close to Cape Town it has managed to maintain its rural charm, especially in the low density horsy parts. Its residents welcome tourism but unite successfully when it comes to fight developments deemed too urban. Meanwhile, vineyards and vegetable farming are returning to Noordhoek. Yet still more characteristic for the local flora is the indigenous Cape Fynbos - including groves of scarce Milkwood and Yellowwood trees covering the slopes of surrounding mountains and stretching down to the coastal plain and wetlands area.

History
The suburb of Noordhoek (meaning "north corner" of the old farm Slangkop stretching all the way from Kommetjie to Noordhoek) is a vibrant rural and artistic community village just 25 minutes south of Cape Town. It is considered to be the last remaining truly rural area and country village in the Cape Peninsula. An article in the Wynberg Times of May 1902 describes the village: "nice farm-houses scattered all over, surrounded by cultivated gardens growing nearly every kind of vegetable".

It is evidenced, by the excavation of skeletons in Noordhoek, that the valley was occupied by Khoi nomads. In 1857 the area was divided into six portions, most of these were bought by the de Villiers family. The farmers grew vegetables to supply the ships in Simon's Town.

The Appaloosa Horse Farm, once part of Avondrust Farm and De Gote Hope Farm, had been built originally in 1986, but has undergone a complete rebuilding in 2002, adding a thatch roof in the Old Cape Style to ensure the highest level of comfort. It has been transformed into a wonderful small holding. See for yourself (link to pix).

Why the name "Appaloosa Horse Farm"? Because in 2002 the hosts acquired four young Appaloosa foals, this particular breed chosen for their war proof temper and easy handling. Their young age guaranteed that no wrong or bad handling had been engraved on their memory . This has been a very good basis for a natural approach in 'training' the horses. Equestrian fans will have heard about PARELLI's natural horsemanship. All the others might get an idea if they think about the Horse Whisperer. In a few words, the objective is to learn to understand horses (their gestures) and to acquire/train a personal repertoire of gestures/movements which ensure that the horses will understand you too.