Fleur Huijskens and Nicole Boekhoorn founded Sterrekopje, a healing retreat in Franschhoek, in 2022. In a relatively short space of time, it has become world-renowned as a nature-forward space to rest and connect that celebrates authentic wellbeing and embodies the notion of travelling with meaning and intention. We asked Fleur her thoughts on wellness in the industry, how luxury has changed and the thinking behind creating Sterrekopje.

1. How has the concept of luxury changed in a travel context?

At Sterrekopje, we embrace what we call ancestral luxury – a return to the essence of being human. It’s about slowing down, reconnecting with the land, with each other, and with ourselves. This kind of luxury isn’t about silver service or opulence; it’s about meaningful connection, shared stories, and reciprocal hospitality – where giving and receiving are balanced.

And while traditional hospitality has often placed the guest on a pedestal, we believe in a mutual exchange. The host offers nourishment, care and a space of beauty; the guest brings curiosity, presence, and often, stories or creative energy. That reciprocity is deeply rooted in ancient traditions and is something we honour.

Today’s luxury, for us, is grounded in intention and heart. Everything at Sterrekopje has been created with love – from the food to the spaces we welcome guests into. It’s not a commercial offering; it’s a way of life. Guests feel this sincerity. You can’t fake it.

2. What kind of wellness experiences are travellers seeking now compared to, say, five years ago?

In fact, we prefer the term wellbeing over wellness, because for us, it’s not a checklist of spa treatments or detox menus. It’s about feeling held, nourished, and safe in a way that allows for true rest and reconnection.

People today are looking for something more genuine and intuitive – less rigid, less clinical. Modern life is so fast-paced and overstimulating. Guests come to us to slow down, to regulate their nervous systems, and to get back into their bodies. Instead of prescribed programs, we offer gentle daily rituals, intuitive therapies, and grounding activities we call Farm Rhythms – like baking, pottery, guided hikes, or yoga. These create space for healing, play, and embodiment.

We don’t have a spa menu. We have a bathhouse where deeply intuitive therapists offer what your body actually needs in the moment. No fluff, no performance. Just real, embodied care. Wellbeing here isn’t about fixing something broken. It’s about remembering your wholeness – a return to self through simplicity, nature, and joy.

3. What inspired Sterrekopje? What gap were you trying to fill?

Sterrekopje was born from a deeply personal need. My wife reached a moment in her life when she asked: “Is this it?” She took time out, travelled, and visited countless wellness hotels and retreats. What she found was either clinical and cold or deeply transformative but lacking comfort.

She wanted a space where personal growth and deep rest could co-exist. Where guests could be nourished in every way – emotionally, spiritually, and physically – with beautiful food, inspiring surroundings, and a sense of real care. When she couldn’t find such a place, she decided to create it. And after three years of searching, she found the farm – and a day later, we met. Sterrekopje became our shared vision, brought to life during the stillness of the pandemic. This wasn’t about what was missing in South Africa — it was about creating something that didn’t exist anywhere in the world.

4. What sets Sterrekopje apart?

Everything at Sterrekopje is created with intention. We’re not selling a lifestyle — we’re living it. This is a regenerative, nature-connected, joy-filled way of being that we share with our guests.

We don’t preach. We don’t prescribe. Some guests stay two nights and move on. Others come for a week and go through something transformative. It’s not up to us – it’s up to the guest and their journey. Sterrekopje is a place where you can come home to yourself. It’s a space for unfolding, not fixing. For grounding, not escaping. And we simply hold space for whatever needs to emerge.

5. What are some of your non-negotiables in the guest experience?

We offer intuitive service – not formal, not stiff, but full of presence and care. It’s about creating a feeling of seen, without intrusion. That sense of genuine welcome allows people to truly exhale, which has a profound effect on the nervous system. Together with our team, we’ve created a place where guests feel safe to be themselves. It’s about creating an experience that feels real, nourishing, and unforgettable.