Tilney Manor at Sanbona: A Safari Escape Near Cape Town

Undulating Klein Karoo landscapes with nothing but nature all the way to the horizon, big skies that sparkle with bright stars at night, spectacular sunsets and luminous dawns, Sanbona is the ultimate wilderness escape. Only three-and-a-half hours from Cape Town, the 58 000-hectare reserve is the Cape’s premier Big 5 destination, but it promises so much more than ticking off wildlife sightings. A weekend away at Sanbona is a soul-restoring experience that soothes, relaxes and resets.

A peaceful haven

Among the four accommodation options, the Georgian-style Tilney Manor stands out for its graceful elegance and historic ambience.

The original homestead dates back to 1894 and was once the home of Swellendam’s district magistrate, with a formal dining room spilling out onto an outdoor dining area and a beamed lounge with a fireplace. Surrounded by an oasis of indigenous gardens, six serene suites are built around the old house, each offering long views over an unspoilt valley of Karoo wilderness, with a wide private verandah where you can soak up the silence.

The lodgings

• 6 spacious open-plan suites with private verandahs
• en-suite bathroom with shower, twin basins and freestanding bath in the centre
• luxurious lounges
• air conditioning
• tea- and coffee-making facilities
• his and hers outdoor showers
• private mini-bar
• fireplace

Adventures in nature

Between game nature drives, nature walks, star-gazing and rock-art spotting, it’s easy to fill your days (and nights), but make sure you leave time for relaxing in serene style: beside the rim-flow pool; immersed in the pristine landscape; or with a spa treatment at the relaxation retreat.

Things to do

• two daily nature drives
• guided wilderness walks
• view rock art (there are seven recorded sites at Sanbona)
• rim-flow pool
• relaxation retreat with steam room and sauna
• exercise room

With its stunning location amid the tranquillity of the Klein Karoo wilderness, Tilney Manor provides a restorative all-inclusive getaway.

Good to know Reopens 1 December 2022
Distance from CT 3.5 hours
Pet friendly? No
Child friendly? Yes, 12 years and older
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R7 245 per person, per night (depending on season)
From R13 005 per person, per night (peak season)
Where to find it Route 62 between Montagu and Barrydale
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

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