Our Story

A Family Dream That Blossomed

In 1999, Tol and Isabel Booyens started Big 5 Guest House with just two rooms and a passion for welcoming people with genuine South African hospitality. Over the years, that small beginning has grown into a well-loved 38-room guest house, offering comfortable accommodation, conference facilities, and a true home-away-from-home experience.

Years later, Isabel shared a dream with her daughter, Anel Kiley — to one day open a tea garden. In June 2015, that dream became a reality with the opening of Anelli's Tea Garden, which quickly became a favourite destination for guests and locals alike.

Today, Anelli's has grown into so much more than a tea garden. The venue now offers five unique function venues, including our beautiful Enchanted Venue, where elegant tree branches suspended from the ceiling create a magical setting for weddings, celebrations, corporate events, and special occasions. Together with our conference venue, restaurant, and gardens, we've created a place where unforgettable memories are made.

What began as a dream shared between a mother and daughter has blossomed into a family-run destination built on faith, passion, and heartfelt hospitality.

We're incredibly grateful for the many guests who have become friends over the years, returning time and again and introducing others to the place we proudly call home.