The Top 20 Eco Cabins in the Cape

The pure exhilaration that comes from being immersed in nature – away from the noise of the city – is medicine for the soul. The Cape is dotted with a wonderful selection of beautiful retreats committed to preserving the landscape while also offering comfort, style and endless natural beauty.

From mountain-hugging chalets and chic seaside cottages to riverside retreats and cabins in the forest, we’ve rounded up some serene spots that’ll have peace-seeking romantics, wannabe lumberjacks and Swiss Family Robinson-style adventurers awestruck. Because, ironically, sometimes you have to disconnect to reconnect…

Orchard Stay

Where Wolseley
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting Surrounded by pear orchards, majestic mountains and that undeniable sense of solitude you can only find in the countryside, Platvlei Farm is a wonderful destination for a private and peaceful getaway for a small group. The cottage, overlooking a small dam, has minimalist finishes and sliding/folding doors that open it up to the outdoors and the wow-factor views of the orchards and Mostertshoek Mountain beyond.
Eco cred An innovative eco swimming pool (dam water flows through the pool).
The lodgings

• two ensuite bedrooms (one with king-size bed, one with twin beds)
• fully equipped kitchen (gas stove)
• dining area
• lounge with a fireplace
• wraparound verandah with braai and outdoor seating
• wood-burning hot tub
• natural swimming pool
• air-conditioning

Things to do

• swimming
• birdwatching
• farm walks and nearby hikes
• mountain-biking trails
• fishing
• explore wine farms and Tulbagh
• Ceres Zipline

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 4
Cost From R2 400 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Melozhori Pods

Where Bonnievale
Distance from CT 2.5 hours
Setting Although it’s just a few hours’ drive from Cape Town, this 2 500-hectare game reserve feels like it’s a million miles away. With nothing but an acacia-shaded valley extending to the Riviersonderend Mountains in the distance, and the sound of chirping birds and rustling leaves to keep you company, Melozhori is the ultimate reprieve. Valley Pod and Waterfall Pod perch on an untouched area of the reserve that overlooks game-dotted valleys, offering an ideal setting for a private escape or romantic retreat.
Eco cred Built from natural materials in order to blend seamlessly into the landscape; solar powered; the reserve is a former livestock farm returned to pristine, indigenous nature.
The lodgings

• one bedroom plus a sleeper couch for a small child
• ensuite bathroom (bath and shower)
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan lounge and dining area with fireplace
• deck with a braai and outdoor seating
• wood-fired hot tub
• 14-metre hammock
• wood-fired pizza oven
• airconditioning

Things to do

• game drives (one complimentary per two-night stay)
• nature walks
• birdwatching
• mountain-biking (bikes for rent)
• wine and olive farms (part of Robertson Wine Valley)
• La Mont cheese deli nearby
• Breede River boat cruise

Good to know There is also a luxury treehouse and a self-catering two-bedroom cottage with a hot tub.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No (except for the cottage)
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 adults + 1 child
Cost From R4 250 per pod per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Copia Eco Cabins

Where Bot River
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting Situated on a working farm in the heart of the Overberg, these converted shipping containers are the perfect off-grid stay for an overdose of nature and seclusion (the name means “abundance” in Latin). Proud owner Lucas Steyn built the four utterly luxurious cabins, designed for romantic escapes, and has ensured style, comfort and unspoilt surrounds are in abundance. With little cellphone reception and no wifi or TV, it’s easy to unplug and embrace the mountain views while enjoying a soak in the hot tub. The newest cabin, Soetdoring, has a glasshouse bedroom so you can gaze up at the stars as you drop off to sleep.
Eco cred Made from recycled materials; off the grid –  solar electricity; all water used in the cabins is recycled for irrigation.
The lodgings

• four cabins: Copia, Lone Tree, Waterval + Soetdoring
• one ensuite bedroom with extra-large bed
• bathroom with bath and shower
• open-plan lounge and dining area
• fully equipped kitchen (fridge, freezer and gas hob)
• indoor fireplace
• covered deck with braai and outdoor seating
• hammock
• wood-fired hot tub

Things to do

• hiking in Kogelberg Nature Reserve
• mountain-biking and fly-fishing on neighbouring farm
• wine-tasting nearby
• Dassiesfontein farmstall
• Honingklip brewery
• Elgin Railway Market
• beaches in Kleinmond and Hermanus

Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? No
Sleeps 2
Cost From R2 000 per cabin per night (minimum 2-night stay on weekends)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Stonewood Mountain Cabin

Where Bainskloof, near Wellington
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting The 660-hectare Mount Bain Private Nature Reserve is a sight to behold, with rugged mountains, wild proteas, fynbos and renosterveld overlooking sweeping plains of plush farmlands. Perched on the view-drenched slopes, Stonewood Mountain Cabin takes centre stage with its floor-to-ceiling windows. The spacious hideaway is like something straight out of a Christmas movie, minus the snow (except perhaps on the peaks in midwinter). The utter peace of starlit skies and the sound of silence (apart from the birdsong!) make it a blissful retreat for couples, friends and families alike.
Eco cred Off-grid, using solar energy; water pumped from the nearby river; ecofriendly soakaway septic tank.
The lodgings

• two bedrooms with queen-size beds (one upstairs), plus two single beds in the living area
• two bathrooms (one with a clawfoot tub, one with a nature shower)
• fully equipped kitchen (gas stove, fridge, microwave, toaster)
• open-plan lounge and dining area with stone fireplace
• reading nook with a library and board games
• spacious deck with gas braai and outdoor seating

Things to do

• hiking and trail running
• mountain-biking
• swimming in the Witte River
• riverside picnics
• wine farms nearby
• gin tasting at Monks Distillery
• The Calabash Bush Pub (at the entrance to the reserve)

Good to know A steep and winding gravel road leads to the cabin, best to drive in daylight.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 6
Cost From R2 500 per night (minimum two-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Ashanté Boutique Retreat

Where Cederberg
Distance from CT 2.5 hours
Setting The Cederberg’s rugged mountains, wild fynbos-covered slopes and big skies seem designed for those seeking soul-restoring solace and adventure. And self-catering Ananda Cabin at Ashanté Boutique Retreat turns a nature retreat into a spoil with an array of simple luxuries. 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. Just over 12km from the nearest town, it’s a place where stargazing is unimpeded by light pollution, and where birds and wild animals flourish.
Eco cred Built of pink-tinged local mountain stone, Ananda Cabin is completely off-grid and powered by solar energy.
The lodgings

• 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
• a generous supply of firewood

Things to do

• birdwatching (bird books and binoculars supplied)
• stargazing
• hiking
• mountain-biking
• rock-climbing
• fishing
• stand-up paddling
• boating on Bulshoek dam

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

Sand Cabins at Nima Lodge

Where Wilderness
Distance from CT 5 hours
Setting Overlooking wooded hills and valleys to the distant Outeniqua Mountains, this hilltop boutique lodge is a beautiful, inspiring space to retreat into nature. The three extraordinary architect-designed Sand Cabins have curved walls inspired by dunes and a separate “tower structure” with a bath positioned in front of a large picture-window. It’s a multi-level “space to dream in”, from the raised bed to the couch in front of the fireplace and out onto the deck with its hot tub. There is a communal sun-drenched pool deck (hinting at Nima’s name – “sun” in Tibetan), the perfect spot to relax and read or do yoga, and it’s a short stroll away from the hiking trails and waterfalls in Wilderness National Park.
Eco cred Designed to blend into the forest environment with a minimal footprint.
The lodgings

• king-size bed
• bathroom with shower and deep bathtub with valley views
• fully equipped kitchen
• spacious lounge with fireplace
• large deck with braai
• wood-fired hot tub
• continental breakfast delivered to your cabin (optional)
• honesty shop and bar

Things to do

• swimming in the natural swimming hole
• hiking trail to the Kingfisher Waterfall
• massages available onsite
• Wilderness beach close by
• canoeing on the lakes and rivers
• forest adventures
• catered picnics

Good to know There are four other more traditional log cabins that are spacious, modern and stylish (3 Sun Cabins + 1 Luna Cabin, each sleeping two).
Child friendly? No, only teens
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2
Cost From R4 200 per night (minimum 2-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

KolKol Mountain Lodge

Where Bot River
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting Sweeping mountain views and the peaceful sounds of nature set the scene for this secluded getaway. Rudi and Karen Oosthuyse were pioneers in harnessing the joys of a hot-tub holiday (their distinctive wood-fired KolKol tubs can now be found all over the world, from the UK to New Zealand). Their hand-built retreat – offering stone-and-log cabins on the original farm and modern Scandi-style pods made from alien wood on the more recently added farm-next-door – appeals to discerning, nature-loving travellers seeking rest and relaxation in stunning, fynbos-smothered surroundings high on the Van der Stel Pass.
Eco cred Each unit built with timber from alien trees on “footprints” in the fynbos so as not to disturb the habitat; solar power and gas used for geysers, heaters and stove; recycling of applicable items.
The lodgings

• nine log cabins of varying sizes (most sleep 2, one sleeps 6, one sleeps 10)
• five two-sleeper Fynbos Pods
• ensuite bathrooms (some with bath and shower) plus outdoor shower in Sugarbush
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan living area with two-way fireplace (in Fynbos Pods)
• CD player + Marshall Bluetooth speakers
• wooden deck with outdoor seating
• wood-fired hot tub
• outdoor braai area in all cabins and pods
• outdoor lounge in pods
• wood-fired pizza oven in King Cabin and Fynbos Pods

Things to do

• 3km circular hiking trail
• mountain-biking
• in-cabin massages available
• wine farms nearby
• Kogelberg Nature Reserve
• explore Hermanus and Kleinmond

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? No
Sleeps 2–10 per unit
Cost Cabins: From R 2 200 per night (minimum 2-night stay over weekends)
Fynbos Pods: From R2 800 per night (minimum 2-night stay over weekends)

Lily Pond

Where Worcester
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting A serene retreat on a wine farm in the mountains outside Worcester, there are no other houses in sight from this simple but luxurious cottage… just a tranquil pond topped with lilies, incredible bird life and mountain slopes beyond. An outdoor bath overlooking the pond, walking trails to a river and rock pools, and going to sleep to the sounds of a frog chorus and the calls of owls, makes for a charming and utterly relaxing country escape for couples to recharge and reconnect.
Eco cred An undisturbed natural setting brimming with bird life.
The lodgings

• one double bedroom
• ensuite bathroom with shower
• outdoor bathtub
• fully equipped open-plan kitchen
• open-plan lounge and dining area with fireplace
• air-conditioning
• patio and garden with firepit
• plunge pool

Things to do

• swim and kayak in the pond
• dip in the river and rockpools
• walk and run on farm trails
• complimentary wine-tasting on estate
• wine estates nearby

Good to know No cellphone reception on farm
Child friendly? 8 years and older
Pet friendly? Yes (by arrangement)
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2
Cost From 1 950 per night (minimum 2 night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Languedoc Cabin

Where Stellenbosch
Distance from CT 1 hour
Setting For surround sounds of nature, this rustic log cabin under age-old trees beside a duck pond turns up the volume: birds singing, frogs croaking, crickets chirping, the flowing river and sometimes golden silence. Languedoc Farm is a little slice of bucolic England in the Blaauwklippen Valley, with stunning gardens, mountain views and horses in the paddocks. For a relaxing, soul-restoring break from daily life, with some of the best wines from the Golden Triangle on your doorstep, this is a simple Winelands gem.
Eco cred A tiny home in a forest clearing, treading lightly on the landscape to the sound of birdsong and resident owls. The farm has a solar back-up energy system.
The lodgings

• one-bedroom cabin with extra-length queen bed
• ensuite bathroom with a shower
• fully equipped kitchen with gas hob
• open-plan living area with indoor fireplace
• smart TV for streaming
• outdoor firepit/braai
• large verandah with seating and dining table
• wood-fired hot tub/ plunge pool under the trees

Things to do

• walks in the gardens and beside the river
• a deck for sundowners over the river
• hiking trails in nearby forest and up the Helderberg
• stargazing
• wine farms nearby
• mountain-biking nearby
• Stellenbosch restaurants, shops and more 10 minutes’ drive away

Good to know Languedoc Farm also has two open-plan apartment suites and a newly renovated one-bedroom cottage.
Child friendly? No, only teens
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2
Cost From R2 000 per night (minimum 2-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Mount Grey Eco Cabin

Where Between Caledon and Greyton
Distance from CT 2 hours
Setting The little-known Klein Swartberg Conservancy (14 857 hectares) lies between those towering Overberg peaks you drive past on the N2, somewhere between Caledon and Greyton. In the midst of it is Mount Grey Cabin, standing solitary in the fynbos landscape, keeping watch over this stunning and tranquil place where the light and shadows play all day. Built from pine and balau wood, it’s completely off-grid yet filled with little luxuries, including a wood-fired hot tub. The perfect romantic time-out for couples who want to reconnect and restore their souls in nature – mountain hikes and hidden waterfalls await.
Eco cred Solar-powered with gas appliances. Within a protected nature conservancy area.
The lodgings

• 1 bedroom with king-size bed
• ensuite bathroom with bath and shower
• fully equipped kitchen with gas stove and fridge-freezer
• open-plan living area
• deck with dining table and loungers
• wood-fired hot tub
• separate boma with braai
• wood supplied

Things to do

• walking and picnicking on the farm
• swimming in mountain pools and waterfalls
• hiking
• mountain-biking
• restaurants, cafes and shops in Greyton
• Saturday morning market in Greyton

Good to know Two new cabins have been added to the collection.
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? No (and no phone signal) at cabin
Sleeps 2
Cost R4 300 per night
Where to find it Krige Road, off R406, near Greyton (or Caledon)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Klein-Hangklip Eco Cabin

Where Rooi-Els, Overberg
Distance from CT 1 hour
Setting Within the protected environment of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, on the slopes of the mountain that gives this designer cabin its name, you may not spot it amid the rocks and fynbos. It’s painted black and blends in beautifully; from the inside, a similar dark palette perfectly frames mesmerising views through the stacked glass doors: greens, greys, browns and oranges of the landscape, dazzling blue sea and sky (all the way across False Bay to Cape Town). Needless to say, the sunsets here are magnificent, and can be enjoyed from large net hammocks floating off the edge of the deck, from the hot tub or picnic boma.
Eco cred The cabin is made from two repurposed shipping containers; the rock cladding was salvaged from the building site. Entirely off-grid with solar power and gas appliances.
The lodgings

• 2 bedrooms (one queen bed, two single beds)
• 1 bathroom (with bath and shower), plus extra toilet
• fully equipped kitchen with gas stove
• open-plan living and dining area with fireplace
• semi-covered furnished deck with giant hammocks
• wood-fired hot tub
• separate picnic boma

Things to do

• swimming and exploring rock pools at Rooi-Els beach
• hiking trails nearby (Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve)
• fishing
• birdwatching and wildlife-spotting
• whale-watching (seasonal)
• artisanal shops, eateries and beach in neighbouring Pringle Bay
• Harold Porter Botanical Garden nearby
• Stony Point penguin colony nearby

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 4
Cost From R4 375 per night
Where to find it Off the R44 (Clarence Drive), Rooi-Els
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Cyphia Close Cabins

Where Hout Bay
Distance from CT 25 mins
Setting This urban escape hidden on the slopes of Hout Bay’s western mountains offers incredible views of the beach and bay, Chapman’s Peak and surrounding fynbos-clad mountains. The owners have turned a barren piece of land into a thriving ecosystem, with a designer garden of indigenous coastal vegetation, and the three glam-rustic guest cabins are each situated in their own special spots in it. The Fynbos Pod is high on the hill; the Reservoir Pod is above the small dam that feeds the eco pool; while the largest cabin, the Sentinel, enjoys exclusive use of the eco pool and looks directly into the Sandy Bay Dunes Nature Reserve (a back gate on the property gives direct access to the reserve, too). Everything about this place is well thought out and special – from the hand-built basins made from sand on the property to the sliding windows that bring the outdoors in, and the “no shoes inside” policy.
Eco cred An eco pool filtered by natural wetlands planting. Rain water harvesting to irrigate the vegetable gardens, and bio-diverse and waterwise indigenous gardens.
The lodgings

• The Sentinel: two ensuite bedrooms + 2 bunk beds
• Fynbos Pod: one ensuite bedroom + sleeper couch
• Reservoir Pod: one ensuite bedroom
• ensuite bathroom with a shower (plus outdoor shower in Fynbos)
• fully equipped kitchenette (includes dishwashers in Fynbos and The Sentinel)
• living/remote working area
• closed combustion fireplaces and electric blankets
• deck with outdoor seating and braai
• firepit (at Reservoir Pod)
• outdoor wood-burning ‘hot bath’ (at Fynbos Pod)

Things to do

• mobile spa available
• hiking trails in the adjacent nature reserve (down to Sandy Bay and Llandudno)
• picnicking on the dunes nearby
• visit Hout Bay’s working harbour and market
• swimming and walks on the beach
• restaurants and shops in Hout Bay
• Constantia wine valley nearby
• Chapman’s Peak Drive

Child friendly? By special arrangement
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 3
Cost From R1 500 per night for two people
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Stonehaven Eco Cabins

Where Hemel-en-Aarde, Hermanus
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting Amid wild fynbos, herb gardens and protea fields on a biodynamic farm, Stonehaven’s eco-friendly lodgings have a unique farmhouse-meets-contemporary-cabin aesthetic, where comfort and style create an ideal getaway for family and friends. Tucked at the foot of the Babilonstoring Mountain, each cabin is equipped with a wood-fired hot tub and offers a sought-after sense of nature-drenched privacy. Sit back and enjoy the scents of the farm’s aromatherapy gardens wafting in the breeze.
Eco cred No chemicals are used on the Stonehaven farm nor in the cabins; most of the farm remains as close to its original fynbos landscape as possible.
The lodgings

• 2 cabins, Earth and Stars (2 bedrooms each)
• Heaven cottage (double-storey, 3 bedrooms)
• king-size beds and single beds
• ensuite bathrooms with shower and/or bath
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan lounge and dining area with a fireplace
• sunny patio
• gas braai
• shaded garden with loungers

Things to do

• Protea Walk
• picnics
• explore the garden labyrinth
• hiking and mountain-biking trails nearby (3 bicycles available)
• dam for swimming and paddling (2 kayaks available)
• massages and yoga by arrangement
• surrounding wine route
• horse-riding nearby
• whale-watching (seasonal)
• markets, galleries, shops and restaurants in Hermanus

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 4 – 6 per cabin
Cost From R3 650 per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

Leopard Valley Eco Retreat

Where Between Clanwilliam and Citrusdal
Distance from CT 2.5 hours
Setting Hidden in a valley in the majestic Cederberg, this eco retreat on a 1 200-hectare farm offers a soul-firing escape in tranquil natural beauty. Shipping containers have been converted into five stylish cabins, painted black and positioned beneath a well-ventilated roof structure, with sliding doors that open onto a deck yielding spectacular views. Crystal-clear springs feed a dam, pond and swimming pool close by for dipping in, and two cabins have hot tubs and one an outdoor bathtub for magical stargazing.
Eco cred Cabins made from recycled materials; off-grid (using solar power and gas); spring-fed water supply; waste water is bio-recycled; owners are conservation-minded and are clearing alien vegetation and replanting fynbos.
The lodgings

• five off-grid cabins: Verreaux’s Eagle, Malachite Sunbird, Cape Canary, Cape Weaver + Cape Sugarbird (two bedrooms)
• bathroom with indoor and outdoor shower (excluding Cape Canary); outdoor bathtub in Verreaux’s Eagle
• eco-friendly bathroom amenities
• fully equipped kitchenette with gas hob and fridge
• living room
• wood-burning fireplace (at Cape Sugarbird + Cape Weaver); gas fireplace (Verreaux’s Eagle)
• deck with outdoor seating (plus wood-burning hot tub in Malachite Sunbird + Cape Canary)
• braai and firepit

Things to do

• swim in spring-fed dams
• hiking trails (rock formations, San rock paintings)
• birdwatching
• animal-spotting
• stargazing

Good to know There are also four boutique glamping sites.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 4
Cost From R1 290 per cabin per night (minimum 2-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Oudebosch Eco Cabins

Where Between Betty’s Bay and Kleinmond
Distance from CT 2 hours
Setting Situated in what is widely considered one of the most beautiful of CapeNature’s protected areas, the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, these cabins were caringly designed by architect Justin Cooke. Surrounded by teeming birdlife, untouched fynbos plains and cascading waterfalls, the modern, glass-fronted cabins maximise the awe-inspiring views of a hidden valley within the Hottentots-Holland mountain range.
Eco cred Holcim Award for Sustainable Construction using renewable materials; planted roofs for insulation; waterless toilets; each cabin uses just 2kW of electricity per day.
The lodgings

• Mbali Collection: three 3-bedroom cabins (Silver Pagoda, Blue Stars and Pink Sugarbush); five 1-bedroom pods (Chincherinchee, Strooiblommetjie, Impepho, Sundew and Golden Star)
• Oudebosch Cabins: five 2-bedroom cabins (Erica, Marsh Rose, Fire Lily, Iris and Everlasting Daisy); one open-plan suite (Palmiet Honeymoon Studio)
• two bathrooms (one en-suite, shower only) in cabins; pods have one bathroom
• fully equipped kitchen
• lounge and dining area with fireplace
• outdoor deck and braai area
• central communal eco swimming pool

Things to do

• hiking/walking trails in the reserve
• mountain-biking
• swimming
• birdwatching from the boardwalk or bird hide
• kayaking or white-water rafting (in season) on the Palmiet River
• African penguin colony at Stony Point
• whale-watching during season (June to November)
• beach at Pringle Bay

Good to know Eco-logs, charcoal and firelighters sold on site. Guests may not bring their own firewood.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? No
Sleeps 2 – 6 per cabin
Cost From R1 410 per night; plus a conservation fee (which includes access to all day trails in the reserve) for overnight visitors of R60 (adults); R40 (children)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway

Where Rawsonville
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting They call it a hideaway – and it truly is, tucked away in the Hawequa Mountains in the Breedekloof, seemingly cut off from the world. With glorious mountain views all around, there’s a wonderful faraway feeling at the three luxurious pod houses perched on a scenic mountain slope. Swimming in the Holsloot River, exploring mountain trails or enjoying some of the best fly-fishing around fills your days. And at the end of the day, fire up the KolKol hot tub as the sun goes down behind the mountaintops.
Eco cred Pods custom-designed to blend into the surroundings; made from ecofriendly lightweight steel; solar-powered.
The lodgings

• three luxury pods (Dragonfly, Mayfly, Wallis Simpson), sleeping up to 4 people
• two bedrooms with king-size beds (can be made into twins)
• two ensuite bathrooms with rainshower
• open-plan lounge and dining area
• fully equipped kitchen
• deck with outdoor seating
• wood-fired hot tub
• outdoor and indoor braai
• air-conditioning
• kiosk selling firewood, ice, coffee, snacks and fresh farm produce

Things to do

• swimming in private plunge pools and river
• birdwatching
• picnic by the river
• 3 hiking trails (one to a waterfall)
• river fly-fishing onsite
• bistro onsite (open daily until 3pm, except Sundays)
• mountain-biking trails
• wine farms

Good to know There are also charmingly rustic historic cottages among trees, 11 private riverside campsites, and three off-grid campsites (accessible only by 4×4)
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 4 per pod
Cost Weekend: R1 330 per adult per night; R660 per child (4 – 12 years) per night
Weekdays: R950 per adult per night; R600 per child per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

Rocherpan Nature Reserve

Where Velddrif
Distance from CT 2 hours
Setting Hidden in the wild vegetation of the West Coast, Rocherpan is a tranquil nature reserve where fynbos-covered dunes, an abundance of birdlife and crashing waves are welcome substitutes for madding crowds and screeching city streets. The majestic location and striking architecture (by award-winning Justin Cooke) make these cabins – named after the birds that frequent this slice of paradise – the ultimate destination for a serene, no-fuss getaway.
Eco cred Each cabin has its own outdoor tank for water, a solar-powered geyser and an ecofriendly waterless toilet.
The lodgings

• eight cabins (newer Coot, Moorhen, Egret and Shoveler have two bedrooms, the others have one bedroom)
• one double bed, two single beds or double futon for children (plus two daybeds in new cabins)
• one bathroom
• living room (indoor fireplace in new cabins)
• fully equipped kitchen (gas stove)
• outdoor deck with braai area

Things to do

• swimming (communal pool or in the sea)
• 2 short walking/hiking trails (along the beach or vlei)
• kids’ playground and putt-putt course
• mountain-biking on the reserve (bring your own bike)
• picnic at the communal braai area or lookout point near the beach
• birdwatching (four bird hides on the reserve)
• whale-watching (June – November)
• on-shore angling (permit required)

Good to know The pan is seasonal – it usually dries up between March and June or during drought – so contact the reserve beforehand to check on the water levels.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? No
Sleeps 2 – 4 per cabin
Cost From R1 270 per night; plus conservation fee of R50 (adults); R20 (children)
MAKE A RESERVATION

The Famtin at Riverstone House

Where Wolseley
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting On the edge of a small farm dam with uninterrupted views of the Mostertshoek Mountains, this pet-friendly getaway sleeps four. The house, constructed from two repurposed shipping containers, is comfortably furnished, with high-end appliances and a wood-burning stove in the living area. There’s no TV, but who needs it with the golden sunsets and starlit sky.
Eco cred The container conversion was done using ecofriendly materials and with minimum impact on the environment.
The lodgings

• two ensuite bedrooms (1 double bed, 2 single beds convertible into king)
• bath and outdoor shower in main bedroom
• open-plan lounge and dining area
• wood-burning stove for heating
• ceiling fans
• fully equipped kitchen
• covered verandah with outdoor dining and braai
• private jetty

Things to do

• swimming and fishing in the dam
• mountain-biking
• hiking
• horse-riding off site
• exploring the Ceres and Tulbagh valleys
• wine estates
• fruit-picking in season

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes (pet-sitting on request)
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 4
Cost From R1 950 per night (minimum 2-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Platbos Log Cabins at Slanghoek Nature Reserve

Where Rawsonville
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting Hidden below the towering mountains of the lesser-known Slanghoek Valley, near Worcester, these log cabins on stilts – aptly named Kliphout, Olienhout and Geelhout – are perched over a serene, sparkling dam, with views to the vineyards beyond. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers looking to get lost in the beauty of the surroundings.
Eco cred Gas- and solar-powered (no electricity, which means no cable poles to ruin the view!).
The lodgings

• three log cabins, each with 2 bedrooms and a loft
• two queen-size beds and two single beds (in loft)
• one bathroom with a shower
• fully equipped kitchen (gas stove and fridge)
• open-plan living and dining area
• indoor fireplace
• deck with outdoor seating and gas braai

Things to do

• paddling on the dam (bring your own canoe)
• short walking trails
• horse-riding (most Saturday mornings)
• putt-putt, jungle gym and trampoline
• 2 swimming pools
• fly-fishing
• restaurant on site
• mountain-biking
• wine farms nearby

Good to know A vehicle with high clearance is recommended. Dam water levels can change according to the time of year.
There are also five Pearview Cottages, luxury solar- and gas-powered eco units with hot tubs.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? No
Sleeps 6 per cabin
Cost From R1 960 per night for two people; R680 per extra person
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Discover all of the Cape’s hidden gems – subscribe to our weekly newsletter.