For seekers of adventure and a connection with nature.
When the wilderness calls, the Cederberg is often the answer… the rugged mountains, wild fynbos-covered slopes and big skies seem designed for seekers after soul-restoring solace, for solitude and adventure. Leaving the N7 just north of Clanwilliam, we discovered an off-grid sanctuary that is designed for an escape into nature: Ashanté Boutique Retreat has recently completed its first self-catering eco-cabin.
Ananda Cabin offers all the simple luxuries that turn a nature retreat into a spoil. There’s a hot tub next to a firepit, a hammock on the wide deck, glorious views and star-filled skies, not to mention a 200-hectare nature reserve to explore and the Olifants River nearby.
Ashanté’s owners had travelled all over South Africa in search of adventure before this idyllic slice of Cederberg heaven enticed them to settle in one spot. Just over 12km from the nearest town, it’s a place where stargazing is unimpeded by light pollution, where birds and wild animals flourish. They’ve designed their eco-cabin to celebrate everything that they value: gratitude for nature, finding beauty in the wild, and appreciating the simple pleasures of life.
An eco-cabin to call home
Built of pink-tinged mountain stone, Ananda Cabin is completely off-grid, and designed with so many luxuries that you might never want to leave. A double-sided fireplace warms both bedroom and living area, folding glass doors open up both rooms to the long covered stoep, where a deck hammock inspires lazy afternoons with a book and a glass of wine. Stone steps lead down the steep hillside to a hot tub and firepit, another secret nook to enjoy sunset-gazing evenings and mountain vistas. And we love the works by local artists that decorate the space, from jellyfish chandeliers to aloe hemp prints.
The lodgings
Completely off-grid and powered by solar energy, Ananda Cabin still encompasses plenty of life’s luxuries, from the organic toiletries and a generous supply of firewood, to a Bluetooth speaker, air-conditioning and an electric blanket. And the welcome basket includes the kitchen basics, as well as milk, eggs and rusks.
- 1 bedroom with king-size bed
- ensuite bathroom with shower and bathtub with a view
- outside shower
- lounge with double-sided fireplace
- kitchen with 2-plate gas stove, fridge-freezer, toaster and kettle
- air-conditioning
- stoep with built-in braai, deck hammock + day beds
- wood-fired pizza oven
- hot tub and firepit
Good to know There is a strong wifi connection but no cellphone reception.
Things to do
Spend your days exploring 200 hectares of pristine wilderness on foot or two wheels. Or take to the water… guests have access to the Olifant’s River for fishing and stand-up paddling, and there’s even a four-seater 25HP motorboat for hire on the nearby dam. You might see fish eagles, or if you’re lucky glimpse a shy otter on the banks of the water.
- bird-watching (bird books and binoculars supplied)
- stargazing
- hiking
- mountain-biking
- rock-climbing
- fishing
- stand-up paddling
- boating on Bulshoek dam
Opening special
There’s a special opening offer perfect for a lastminute winter escape: think glorious sunsets, the first of the spring flowers, long walks in the wild, and stargazing beside a roaring fire.
The special 20% discount off the usual rates
Valid until 31 August 2025
Child friendly? Not suitable for young children, but babies are welcome
Pet friendly? Yes, well-behaved dogs who won’t chase wildlife (R250 per pet per stay)
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2
Cost From R2 800 per night
Where to find it Bulshoek Farm, Clanwilliam
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
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