Lekkerwater Beach Lodge: A Shoreside Stay in a Private Nature Reserve

Weekend Getaways near Cape Town

Dubbed the “jewel of the Western Cape”, De Hoop Nature Reserve is a 34 000-hectare conservancy where miles of untouched nature, billowing sand dunes and unencumbered sea views set the scene.

Cradled in this beautiful, expansive and unspoilt bay lies Lekkerwater Beach Lodge, a dreamy getaway that promises privacy, exclusivity and unforgettable moments. Crashing waves, the smell of the ocean, flaming sunsets and sightings of dolphins set the scene for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Meaning “good water” in Afrikaans, Lekkerwater’s drawcard is undoubtedly its setting. Ensconced in a blanket of fynbos-covered dunes, the lodge blends seamlessly with the environment, and leads down to a six-kilometre private beach offering the kind of beauty you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the world.

The special

South African residents get a special rate (50% off published rack rates) over the summer holiday season, up until 9 January 2025. This is your chance to spend precious time with family in the most idyllic of surroundings, against a backdrop of ocean waves. Even better, all meals and activities are included, so all you have to do is drift from one blissful moment to the next and reconnect with nature in style.
Valid until 9 January 2025
Cost R4 500 per adult per night
R2 250 per child sharing family room
+ R275 per person per night conservation fee
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The lodgings

In keeping with its pristine backdrop, the suites are utterly comfortable, while upholding the integrity of the setting – you won’t find TVs, air-conditioners, minibars or heated towel rails here. The luxury lies in the spectacular setting and tranquillity, where guests are encouraged to relax and cherish life’s simple pleasures.

The interiors echo the gentle tones of the world outside – all blues, greens, sandy neutrals, weathered wood, reeds and textured natural fabrics. The effect is a feeling of being in a place that belongs exactly where it is. It’s soothing and soulful, and perfect for switching off the outside world and tuning into the present moments.

• 6 standalone guest rooms sleeping 2 each
• 1 larger family unit with second loft bedroom, sleeping 2 adults and 2 children
• ensuite with open-plan shower (no bath)
• fireplace in every room
• private sea-facing deck in each room
• open-plan communal lounge, bar and dining area in the main lodge
• wraparound deck with outdoor seating
• plunge pool and firepit

While you’re there

So how do you fill your days so far from civilisation? There are two guided activities per day to explore the intertidal zone and the fynbos. Alternatively, guests are welcome to take a leisurely barefoot stroll along the beach, stop for a dip in a tidal pool or venture to the blow holes if you’re feeling energetic. (Please note: the sea is not safe for swimming except in the rock pools at low tide.)

When the sun begins to set, pull up a seat on the ocean-facing deck with a glass of fine local wine in your hand… Or do the same in the wood-fired hot tub on the beach… Or even from your bed.

Lekkerwater offers a range of unique and informative nature experiences such as coastal walks to explore the rockpools at low tide, spotting cetaceans offshore as you go. Klipdrift Cave and a few others are nearby, too, where our earliest ancestors lived, so history buffs will enjoy the palaeontology talks led by a local guide.

De Hoop Nature Reserve lies in the heart of the majestic Cape Floral Kingdom, so magnificent fynbos and its related biodiversity (birdlife and small wildlife) are a given. Visits to the Potberg Cape vulture colony can be arranged on the way to or from the reserve.

Of course, mealtimes are an occasion – from breakfast on your balcony to feet-in-the-sand dinners, beach braais and meals at communal tables alongside the chefs’ open kitchen.

Whether you choose to lie back and simply let the ocean-facing setting wash over you, or explore this magnificent coastline on foot, you’re guaranteed to make lifetime memories at Lekkerwater.

Cost From R9 500 per adult per night
50% of adult rate per child sharing family room
+ R500 per person per night conservation fee
The details Includes accommodation, all meals, lodge activities and local drinks. Excludes reserve entrance fee of R50 per adult, R30 per child, per night, payable on arrival at the gate.
Good to know The lodge has set arrival and departure days due to its remoteness, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. You will be driven to and from the lodge from a parking area.
Distance from CT 3.5 hours
Child friendly? 6 years and older (unless an exclusive-use group booking); adult supervision required at all times
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? In guest rooms only
Where to find it De Hoop Nature Reserve, off the N2 and R319, southern Cape

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