Jackie James recounts a recent holiday to Tierhoek Farm near Robertson, where she discovered “Stoeping,” a leisurely activity deeply rooted in local farming culture. Described as the act of sitting on one’s stoep—often accompanied by the slow upward lift of a glass of wine or beer—Stoeping is both a social ritual and a form of relaxation. The farm’s residents take the practice seriously, with “Extreme Stoeping” involving a deliberate disconnection from work and technology upon arrival. Grandpa Tierhoek, a notable figure in the area, famously “stoeped for South Africa” in 1954, relying on a bottle of Chardonnay to enhance his performance. The activity, however, is not without its interruptions; the farm’s donkeys, Milly, Tilly, and Violet, occasionally disrupt the tranquility.
Stoeping, as described, requires dedication and practice, with its appeal lying in its simplicity and communal spirit. The article highlights the contrast between city dwellers’ unfamiliarity with the tradition and the farmers’ deep connection to it. While the piece humorously frames Stoeping as both an art and a social endeavor, it underscores the value of slowing down and