Far Side – UPSKILL BARRYDALE NPC

Welcome to Far Side, the eco-education and sustainable-living facility of Upskill Barrydale NPC, where creativity, learning, and environmental stewardship come together in the heart of the Western Cape. Our 1-hectare property is a haven for those seeking an immersive experience in eco-living, permaculture, and hands-on skills development.

Sustainable Living & Eco-Learning

At Far Side, we demonstrate practical self-reliance and low-impact living. Our property features:

• Permaculture gardens and fruit orchards, including apples, figs, peaches, plums, apricots, guavas, quinces, and olives.

• Vegetable gardens and tunnels, supported by compost we produce on-site from organic waste.

• Solar-powered systems and a borehole for water, reducing reliance on municipal services and promoting environmentally responsible living.

• Emphasis on recycling and upcycling, where tins, glass, paper, and plastics are transformed into artworks sold locally.

• Composting and soil enrichment workshops, encouraging sustainable food production and regenerative gardening techniques.

Accommodation

Our accommodation is designed to blend with nature while supporting off-grid living:

• Two movable caravans, each sleeping 2–3 guests.

• One cabin, sleeping 2–3 guests.

• Community kitchen and communal spaces for workshops and gatherings.

• Two showers and two toilets, plus ample open lawns for tents during larger events.

• Mostly off-grid, with selective use of municipal water, combining comfort with sustainability.

Workshops & Skill Development

Far Side is a hands-on learning hub where youth, visitors, and community members can gain valuable skills in:

• Permaculture and eco-living

• Analog and digital photography

• Woodworking, furniture making, and wattle craft

• Compost-making and community food gardening

• Solar energy systems and alternative building methods

• Beehive construction, raised beds, and upcycling old materials

• Life skills including, healthy eating, and practical problem-solving

Nature & Outdoor Experiences

• Hikes through surrounding mountains and farmlands, offering immersive encounters with local biodiversity and landscapes.

• Opportunities to observe and interact with fruit trees, vegetable gardens, and sustainable ecosystems in a real-world setting.

• Large open spaces for events, eco-festivals, and group learning sessions.

Community Impact & Vision

Far Side embodies our vision of environmental education, youth empowerment, and sustainable community development. Through hands-on training, eco-tourism, and creative workshops, we:

• Equip local youth with practical skills for self-employment and entrepreneurship.

• Promote responsible tourism and awareness of eco-friendly living practices.

• Foster community engagement and cultural appreciation, connecting guests with Barrydale’s unique rural environment.

Whether you’re here to learn, relax, or explore, Far Side offers a unique blend of eco-conscious accommodation, education, and community-driven creativity. Join us to experience sustainable living, reconnect with nature, and develop skills that make a difference — for yourself, your community, and the planet.