Buyuk Chamilja Farm, or as they call it, a Socio Eco Techno Village is run by a Turkish organization – UICT. It is a good example of the kind of investment that the Turkish community is making in South Africa.

This olive and fig farm is essentially a huge estate. It’s a fantastic child-friendly venue for a day in the sun with lots of activities for the kids as well as good food and an atmosphere to unwind and enjoy the weekend. The behind the scenes work done here to feed a number of orphanages and madressas run by UICT is truly amazing.

It’s kind of like a Turkish Babylonstoren. You can walk the beautiful grounds, picnic on the lawns and watch the children play on the various outdoor swings and rides. There’s a duck pond, animals like llama, goats, sheep and even ox-wagon rides.

An on-site deli offers various Turkish treats like hummus, halva, Turkish meats, preserves and more. Next door they have just opened a casual Burger Bar with a curated selection of burgers & fries which can be ordered and enjoyed under the olive trees in the courtyard out front.

The original restaurant on the farm, the Karinja Café, is an interesting cave-like architectural study. And after my trip to Cappadocia 2 years ago, it definitely makes me think of the cave like buildings native to that part of the country. We enjoyed typical Turkish food of pide, clay baked Sote, Baklava and Turkish coffee. The one thing you don’t get here is Iskender Kebab, but they do have it at some of the festivals that are held on the estate.

There is a huge barn which can be hired for events. It’s also where they have all the food vendors during their festivals. We recently attended the Cherry & Berry festival and were able to enjoy a variety of cherry inspired treats and items like crafted soaps and oils. They also have a Fig & Olive Festival every year.

It’s a scenic and relaxing day out during the summer months when you need to find ways to keep the kids occupied. And a great way to give yourself a digital detox for a few hours.

Find them at: KISIKLI ST, Lekkerhoekie 450-Jr, Centurion, 0183
Call: 065 585 9178
Visit them on Facebook.

Related: See more about their sister restaurant Tadinda in Norwood.