The Top 15 Luxury Lodges in the Cape

Tranquillity, blissful comfort and connection to nature in spectacular Cape landscapes.

By Inside Guide  •  12 August 2025

Luxury Lodges
Luxury Lodges

From majestic mountains and verdant forests to dramatic coastlines and magnificent wilderness reserves where the Big Five have been reintroduced, the Cape is a region of geographical diversity and ineluctable beauty.

Where better to experience this majesty than from a stunning and intimate luxury lodge where exemplary service, delicious food and a wealth of activities immerse you in total relaxation and a sense of place? Among our favourites, you’ll find lodges in wild reserves offering a curated menu of experiences, secluded retreats, exclusive-use properties where you set the programme, and family-friendly destinations immersed in nature. All special places where vistas unfold over unforgettable landscapes to gold horizons. Pinch-yourself moments await…

Sterrekopje Farm

Luxury Lodges Sterrekopje Farm
Sterrekopje Farm Luxury Interior
Sterrekopje Farm Luxury Offerings

Tucked away in the lush foothills of the magnificent Franschhoek mountains, Sterrekopje Farm is an intimate, soulful, whimsical place of restoration, regeneration and healing rest. Here, you’ll find a slice of what can only be described as paradise, complete with magical overgrown gardens, hand-crafted furniture, crackling fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, climbing vines, natural pools and meditative nooks aplenty. What’s not to love?
Signature experience The exquisite Bath House spa offers a tailored programme of healing rituals to restore body and soul. Guests are also invited to join every aspect of farm life, from morning harvests to tending the beehives and baking bread.
What’s on offer

  • 11 private, individually decorated suites (known as Sanctuaries), either in the Main House or scattered across the farm
  • saltwater pool
  • Old Farmhouse with shared library, orangerie, bakery and kitchen (including a large farmhouse table for meals)
  • farm gardens featuring indigenous and heritage plants
  • Atelier offering creative classes
  • Bath House offering intuitive massages, sound baths, reflexology and other healing rituals
  • Chakra Garden + private outdoor spaces for contemplation, yoga and meditation
  • dam for wild swimming and canoeing

Child friendly? No (except for family retreats or exclusive use)
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 2 per Sanctuary
Good to know Rates include all meals and beverages (including alcohol), one treatment per day (Rituals), daily group activities (Farm Rhythms), laundry service and personalised mini bar
Cost From R16 500 per room per night; minimum two-night stay
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Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Luxury Lodges Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve Bedroom
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve Safari

A treasure trove of fynbos and ancient milkwood trees between Stanford and Gansbaai, Grootbos is an extraordinary private reserve and conservation champion where rare nature and tranquil luxury converge. High on fynbos hills with views right down to Walker Bay, this 3 500-hectare slice of serenity combines luxury five-star accommodation and facilities, memorable meals (three-course lunches and sumptuous à la carte dinners), and a superb selection of unique nature-infused experiences. This is an all-inclusive African safari of a completely different kind.
Signature experience The 4×4 botanical fynbos safari takes you deep into the lore of some of the over 1 000 plant species (seven of them new to science) conserved on this pristine reserve, with glorious views all the way..
Inside tip Don’t miss the Grootbos Florilegium, a stunning gallery of detailed botanical artworks by a collaboration of local and international artists
What’s on offer

  • Garden Lodge: 11 luxury one- or two-bedroom freestanding suites
  • restaurant, wine cellar, heated pool, wellness area with sauna and kids’ playroom
  • Forest Lodge: 16 luxury freestanding suites for couples
  • restaurant, barista bar, wine cellar, forest boma, infinity pool, forest spa and library
  • suites with a lounge, fireplace, and private deck with sea views
  • guided nature walks and hikes
  • horse-riding through the fynbos
  • birdwatching
  • 4×4 botanical safari
  • visit an ancient coastal cave
  • cliff-top whale-watching excursions (in season)
  • a one-of-a-kind botanical art gallery depicting the rare plants found here
  • spa treatments (additional Cost)
  • fat-biking over dunes, marine safaris, river cruises and boat- and air-based whale-watching can be arranged (additional Cost)

Child friendly? Yes (Garden Lodge)
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 2
Good to know Rates include all meals and two selected activities per day. There are also two ultra-luxurious private villas, Fynbos and Sunbird, with private chef, butler and guide.
Cost From R31 500 per suite per night
SA Residents Secret Season Special (valid until 31 August 2025): from R7 950 per person sharing
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Luxury Lodges Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Luxury Bedroom
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Luxury Safari

A mere three or so hours from Cape Town lies Sanbona Wildlife Reserve – a secluded sanctuary where wildlife roam free in over 58 000 hectares of sacred wilderness. Found below the purple folds of the Warmwaterberg Mountains outside Montagu, this malaria-free wildlife reserve in the heart of the Little Karoo is the Western Cape’s answer to a luxe safari experience. Big Five-spotting, wide-open savannah plains, indigenous flora, San rock paintings, birdlife and tranquillity, its off-the-radar setting provides the type of privacy and discretion that makes the rest of the world seem irrelevant.
Signature experience A nature drive to track down both the Big Five and the Little Five, the kings of the plains and the lesser-known species that are special in their own right.
Inside tip For tent-dwelling romance choose Dwyka Tented Lodge. For family-friendly luxury go for Gondwana Family Lodge. And don’t miss the star-gazing excursions…the night skies are big and bright this far from the city.
What’s on offer

  • Dwyka Tented Lodge: 9 luxury ensuite tents with heated plunge pools
  • main lodge with a lounge, fireplace, open-air dining boma and wine cellar
  • Gondwana: 12 luxury suites with king-size beds + sleeper couches
  • main lodge with swimming pool, boma, and kids programme
  • two nature drives per day
  • guided nature walks
  • bird-watching (with seasonal lake/wetland boat cruises)
  • stargazing with telescopes
  • relaxation retreat with spa treatments

Child friendly? Yes (Gondwana Family Lodge)
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 2
Good to know Look out for regular SA residents’ and winter specials. Rates include all meals, activities, on-drive snacks and selected beverages.
Cost From R9 890 per person sharing per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Strandloper Ocean Boutique Hotel

Luxury Lodges Strandloper Ocean Boutique Lodge
Strandloper Ocean Boutique Hotel Exterior View
Strandloper Ocean Boutique Hotel Luxury Bedroom
Strandloper Ocean Boutique Hotel Luxury Swimming Pool

On the far eastern edge of the West Coast fishing village of Paternoster (with miles of ocean in front and wilderness alongside), this ultra-stylish eco-retreat is “barefoot luxury” epitomised. It’s  elemental and modern, designer and natural, contemporary and timeless; a mini whitewashed “village” of 16 rooms and suites, festooned with bougainvillaea, and an excellent in-house restaurant. With direct access through the dunes to the beach 200 metres away, it’s a place to fall into a gentle daydream of sky, sea, sand and space – and be thoroughly pampered with five-star service.
Signature experience Slow down, take long beachcombing walks along the sands, look out for sea birds, dolphins, and whales (in season), and drink in the raw beauty of this unspoilt West Coast landscape.
Inside tip Bicycles are provided to explore the small town and its charming shops and eateries.
What’s on offer

  • 16 rooms (Ocean Suites, Nature Suites, Courtyard Lux + Courtyard Rooms)
  • communal sundeck with heated saltwater pool
  • communal lounge with fireplace and views of the Atlantic
  • beach walks
  • cycle around the village (bicycles provided)
  • on-site gourmet dining at Leeto restaurant and bar
  • Elements Wellness Suite offering a signature Africology Experience
  • explore Paternoster’s restaurants, galleries and curio shops
  • guided coastal bush hikes
  • horseriding on the beach
  • picnics
  • kayaking

Child friendly? Yes, 12 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 2 per room (+ 2 children in Nature Suites)
Good to know Breakfast is included in the rate. Other meals, organised activities and excursions are charged in addition.
Cost Rooms: from R3 800 per night
Suites: from R8 700 per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat

Luxury Lodges Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve
Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve Exterior
Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve River

In many ways a pioneer in the rugged Cederberg (once accessible only to hikers and campers), this family-owned private reserve spans 7 500 hectares of towering rock formations and striking landscapes for a five-star wilderness escape that puts sustainability first. Renowned for its warm, caring service and exceptional hospitality, Bushmans Kloof offers immersive nature drives and walks, unique access to 130 San rock-art sites, a river to paddle or picnic beside, superb food and a host of curated experiences. A serene oasis that is a must for wildlife lovers.
Signature experience Day and night drives to discover a wide variety of birds, plains’ game, and rare nocturnal beasts such as the aardwolf, African wildcat, bat-eared fox and porcupine.
Inside tip Look out for the special focus weekends on certain dates: a botanical heritage weekend; a food-and-wine affair; or weekends geared to family adventures.
What’s on offer

  • main lodge with 16 ensuite bedrooms with private patios and a small lounge
  • four crystalline swimming pools
  • shared lounge and dining areas (indoor and outdoor)
  • 2 private villas: Koro Lodge and Cederberg House
  • daily brunch, lunch, high tea and dinner
  • guided rock-painting tour
  • hiking and mountain-biking trails
  • swimming or canoeing in the river
  • fly-fishing
  • archery
  • nature drives and walks
  • organic garden tours
  • on-site spa
  • wine-tasting in the retreat’s cellar

Child friendly? Yes, 6 years and older at the main lodge; all ages at Koro Lodge
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 2 per lodge bedroom
4 to 10 per villa
Good to know Rates include all meals and selected activities
Cost Rooms: From R21 690 per room per night
Suites: From R32 790 per night
Private Villas: From R50 600 per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

Melozhori Lodge

Luxury Lodges Melozhori Lodge
Melozhori Lodge Luxury Bedroom
Melozhori Lodge Luxury Hot Tub

With renosterveld, fynbos and acacia-shaded valleys extending to the Riviersonderend Mountains, and a soundtrack of chirping birds and rustling leaves, the 2 300-hectare Melozhori Private Game Reserve outside Bonnievale feels like it’s a million miles away. The luxurious four-bedroom Melozhori Lodge (available on an exclusive-use basis) overlooks the game-dotted plains beyond, offering wildlife watching even from the rim-flow pool. With a private chef, game drives, nature walks and trails to explore (and no predators), it’s a tranquil sanctuary where children are safe and welcome.
Signature experience A guided game drive takes you out into the reserve to seek out over 38 species of wildlife including the rare and beautiful sable antelope, as well as giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, kudu, eland, oryx and bontebok, to name a few.
Inside tip This is wonderful terrain for mountain-biking and you can rent bikes on the reserve if you don’t have your own.
What’s on offer

  • four ensuite bedrooms
  • spacious lounge and dining room with fireplace
  • heated rim-flow pool
  • boma and firepit
  • hot tub
  • stargazing hammocks
  • bespoke menu from private chef
  • guided game drives
  • nature walks (no dangerous animals) and hiking
  • mountain-biking (e-bikes to rent)
  • birdwatching
  • fishing dam
  • stargazing
  • sundowner picnics
  • massages (on request at additional Cost)
  • wine farms nearby

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 8
Good to know Rates are all-inclusive for a minimum two-night stay. There are also two self-catering eco-pods, a two-level off-grid treehouse and a family-friendly cottage available on the reserve.
Cost From R55 000 per night for four guests
R8 500 per additional guest
MAKE A RESERVATION

Morukuru Beach Lodge

Luxury Lodges Morukuru Beach Lodge
Morukuru Beach Lodge Luxury Bedroom
Morukuru Beach Lodge Luxury Balcony View

This faultlessly five-star eco-escape in De Hoop Nature Reserve has been carefully designed to maximise – and respect – its spectacular surroundings. The five-bedroomed, off-grid hotel (also available as an exclusive-use property) lies on a 51-kilometre-long sliver of pristine coastline characterised by towering sand dunes, limestone cliffs and an impossibly spectacular stretch of Indian Ocean (prime whale-watching country) and offers a host of nature-based activities
Signature experience A marine walk with one of the fabulously informative guides at low tide explores the rich diversity of sea life from octopus to sea anemones. Follow it up with snorkelling in the protected rock pools to make your own discoveries.
Inside tip You get complimentary use of all outdoor equipment (snorkels, masks, water shoes, wetsuits, mountain bikes, sand boards, ponchos, gumboots, beach umbrella).
What’s on offer

  • 2 ocean-view suites with balcony (sleep 2)
  • 2 ocean-view family suites with balcony (Sleeps 2 adults + 2 children under 16)
  • 1 honeymoon suite with covered deck + outdoor bathtub (Sleeps 2)
  • a rooftop terrace and deck with a fireplace
  • a large courtyard with a swimming pool and outdoor hot tub
  • guided fynbos hike or marine walk
  • sandboarding
  • bike rides
  • bird-watching
  • beach picnics
  • snorkelling

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 2 (suites); 2 adults + 2 children (family suites)
Good to know The rate includes all meals, drinks and two shared guided activities daily.
Cost Whale Season Special (valid until 11 September 2025): from R5 500 per person sharing per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Coot Club

Luxury Lodges Coot Club
Coot Club Luxury Bedroom
Coot Club Luxury Lagoon

On the water’s edge of the Klein River estuary is Coot Club – a dreamy, retro-inspired holiday resort and conservation wonderland just outside of Stanford. It’s the ultimate weekend getaway, where abundant birdlife flits through the fynbos and 400-year-old milkwood thicket surrounds a scattering of stone cottages and the historic Spookhuis. That “ghosthouse” is now the Clubhouse, around which all the action happens. It’s a natural playground perfect for a fun-filled family getaway, with action-packed days of water-play, and a stay in the tin-roofed, timber-walled, nautical-themed Boathouses makes it extra-special.
Signature experience Days spent messing about on the water, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, waterskiing and swimming. It’s idyllic Swallows and Amazons country.
What’s on offer

  • 5 boathouses: Starboard + Stern (two bedrooms) + 3 x Port (three bedrooms)
  • 4 one-bedroom stone cottages (two Leeward Suites + two Leeward Large, with sleeper couch for a child)
  • 1 three-bedroom stone house (Lawns) with four-bed loft dorm
  • open-plan living room (lounge, dining + kitchen) with fireplace
  • braai on request (at cottages and house)
  • hot tub
  • swimming in two pools, the lagoon or ocean
  • paddling on the lagoon (kayaks and SUPs supplied)
  • explore on a fatbike (supplied)
  • lawns for games (boules, volleyball, etc)
  • games room with foosball, table tennis, pool table and board games
  • morning yoga
  • picnics, braais and meals at the Clubhouse
  • daily sundowners on the jetty
  • nature walks, including to Walker Bay Beach
  • whale-watching from the dunes (in season)
  • guided quad-biking
  • sandboarding trips
  • waterskiing and sailing

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 2 – 6 (+ up to 4 children)
Good to know There is a minimum two-night stay and a daily conservation levy of R275 per adult guest. Breakfast is included, as is use of kayaks, paddle boards, fat bikes and sailing boats (certification required). Other meals, guided activities and childminding services are charged separately.
Cost Boathouses: from R5 005 per night for two adults
Stone cottages: from R3 815 per night for two adults
Stone house: from R10 430 per night for six people
Extra child: R1 085 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Cederberg Ridge Wilderness Lodge

Luxury Lodges Cederberg Ridge Wilderness Lodge
Cederberg Ridge Wilderness Lodge Bedroom
Cederberg Ridge Wilderness Lodge Bathroom

Stealthily tucked into the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains (2.5 hours from Cape Town), this intimate nine-roomed lodge is where warm service, sumptuous accommodation and delicious food unite to create an unforgettable stay. But it’s the remarkable setting – on a 3 000-hectare fruit farm in the heart of the Cederberg Wilderness Reserve – that knocks it out of the park. Characterised by untamed landscapes, red-sandstone mountains and flaming sunsets, this region of the Cape emanates a kind of otherworldly majesty and sacred solitude you’ll be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.
Signature experience A guided morning rock art tour takes you to nine rock art sites over a 5km walk and shares stories of San culture and history.
Inside tip In spring this excursion can be combined with flower-viewing in the nearby Biedouw Valley.
What’s on offer

  • 11 spacious suites with indoor and outdoor showers and a large terrace
  • wood-burning fireplaces in select suites
  • romantic sleep-out option on your terrace
  • outdoor fire pit
  • main library with fireplace, books and TV
  • farm-to-table breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • large swimming pool with mountain panoramas
  • in-room spa treatments available
  • boules and croquet
  • mountain-biking (bikes provided)
  • self-guided hiking trails
  • water sports in the dam
  • excursions into the Cederberg
  • rock-art tours
  • stargazing

Child friendly? Yes, children 8 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 2 to 4 per room
Good to know You can book on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis; or full-board, which includes excursions and activities.
Cost From R5 071 per room per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Lekkerwater Beach Lodge

Luxury Lodges Lekkerwater Beach Lodge
Lekkerwater Beach Lodge Luxury Bedroom
Lekkerwater Beach Lodge Luxury Hot Tub

Lekkerwater enjoys an exclusive concession in the De Hoop Nature Reserve, perched on the dunes above a five-kilometre-long beach, with standalone sea-facing guest suites fanning out from a central raised boardwalk. The all-inclusive lodge experience offers guided nature and shoreline walks among other activities, and meals are shared family-style around one large table (or alone if preferred) in the comfortable communal living area. It’s a place to connect with nature, recalibrate and recharge.
Signature experience The lodge looks out onto a marine protected area where southern right whales come in large numbers to calve every year (from mid-July to November) and you get a front-row seat for superb whale-watching right from your private deck.
Inside tip Make time to view the endangered Cape vultures at the Potberg breeding site in the De Hoop Nature Reserve on the way to or from the lodge.
What’s on offer

  • 7 suites with fireplace and private sea-facing deck
  • open-plan communal lounge, bar and dining area in the main lodge
  • wood-fired hot tub on the beach
  • a pristine natural environment
  • guided intertidal zone explorations
  • guided fynbos, nature, cave or gorge walks
  • dolphin-watching (all year) and whale-watching (July to November)

Child friendly? Yes, 6 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 2
Good to know Rates include all meals, local drinks, lodge activities and transfers from a car park within the reserve (arrivals on Mon, Wed or Fri), with two-, three- or five-night stays available depending on your arrival day. There is a R50 per person per night Cape Nature conservation fee, payable in cash on arrival at the De Hoop entrance gate.
Cost SA residents: From R3 250 – R4 500 (all inclusive) per person sharing per night.
Conservation, Community + Reserve Fee (SA residents): R300 per person per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

Tsala Treetop Lodge

Luxury Lodges Tsala Treetop Lodge
Tsala Treetop Lodge Luxury Bedroom
Tsala Treetop Lodge Luxury Exterior

A seductive mix of Tsitsikamma Forest scenery, Afro-Baroque furnishings and an aura of mysticism and wonder near Plettenberg Bay, this characterful Garden Route retreat has captured travellers’ imaginations for over two decades. The treetop setting is breathtaking: lush indigenous forest visible from almost every window or walkway, exotic birds swooping by at eye level. Wherever you are – in the lodge’s lounge, in your private infinity pool, or in the glass-walled dining room – you’re several metres above ground. Elevated walkways connect the suites and villas, all of which offer a liberating sense of solitude.
Signature experience Cool off in your private plunge pool level with the treetops as the sun sets and sip a glass of wine before dinner.
What’s on offer

  • 10 one-bedroom suites + 6 two-bedroom villas with outside decks
  • complimentary canapés and bottle of wine on arrival
  • breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily in Tsala Restaurant
  • private plunge pools in each suite
  • in-room spa treatments
  • yoga and gym at nearby sister property Hunter’s Country House
  • Zinzi Restaurant (fine-dining) a short stroll away
  • surrounding hiking and mountain-biking trails
  • nearby Birds of Eden sanctuary and Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary

Child friendly? Yes, 10 years and older (villas only)
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 2 per suite; 4 per villa
Cost Suites: From R15 800 per night (breakfast included)
Villas: From R19 600 per night (breakfast included)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Penhill Farm

Luxury Lodges Penhill Farm
Penhill Farm Luxury Interior
Penhill Farm Luxury Exterior

An exclusive retreat in the rugged fynbos hills of the Nuy Valley, between Worcester and Robertson, with roots stretching back to the earliest days of the Cape, this country estate offers authentic Karoo farm living blended with elegant modern comforts. Guests choose between the original Cape Dutch manor house, two historic cottages (The Old Fruit Barn and Pepper Tree Cottage), or two recently added double-storey, semi-detached cottages (East Grange and West Grange). Breathtaking mountain views, beautiful gardens, pools and hot tubs, a farm dam with a wooden jetty, and nature trails on 640 hectares make it an enchanting escape for families. Plus, The Cellars Restaurant & Bar is famed for seasonal long-table feasts.
Signature experience Take the hiking trail to a natural rock pool for a scenic picnic and cooling dips, paddle about in the farm dam, take to the mountain-biking trails, or find a quiet corner to read your book.
Inside tip Lodgings can be booked either individually or together for an exclusive‑use stay accommodating up to 24 guests in total.
What’s on offer

  • The Manor House with four bedrooms
  • 4 two-bedroom cottages
  • private pool (The Manor House, The Old Fruit Barn + Pepper Tree Cottage)
  • wood-fired hot tub (cottages)
  • Manor House dam for swimming, paddling and fishing (kayaks available)
  • natural rock pool
  • 4 hiking trails
  • bird-watching
  • cycling on gravel roads and mountain trails (bikes available)
  • tennis court
  • boules and croquet court
  • board games
  • picnics (bookings essential)
  • on-site bar and dining

Good to know All rates include breakfast and access to facilities. Exclusive‑use bookings, additional meals, guided hikes and picnics are priced separately.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 4 per cottage
8 in Manor House
Cost The Manor House: from R17 900 per night for eight people
East Grange + West Grange: from R8 500 per night for up to four people
The Old Fruit Barn + Pepper Tree Cottage: from R9 900 for per night for up to four people
Full estate (exclusive-use): from R46 900 for up to 24 people
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Pure Sea Boutique Lodge

Luxury Lodges Pure Sea Boutique Lodge
Pure Sea Boutique Lodge Luxury Bedroom
Pure Sea Boutique Lodge Luxury Hot Tub

For barefoot luxury island-style, head to this extraordinary lodge near Gansbaai – situated within the 220-hectare Romansbaai Beach & Fynbos Estate (home to zebras, springboks and bontebok) and just steps away from a near-private beach that stretches for miles. Expansive sea views fill the horizon and the sunsets are spectacular. There are just four spacious guest suites decorated in earthy tones and textures, as well as a lap pool, hot tub and giant hammocks, all lovingly designed by the owners as a healing space to reconnect with nature.
Signature experience Enjoy a leisurely picnic on the private beach then return for a sunset session in the hot tub with sundowners and tapas served as you soak.
Inside tip Looking north over Walker Bay, this is prime whale-watching country (from July to November), with uninterrupted ocean views from every room (and binoculars provided).
What’s on offer

  • 4 suites (sleep 2) with furnished verandahs
  • deck with daybeds beside a lap pool
  • wood-burning hot tub
  • swimming in the pool or ocean
  • picnic on the private beach
  • tapas with sundowners
  • Flow spa for wellness treatments
  • beach and bush walks
  • mountain-biking trails through fynbos and milkwood
  • horse-riding on the beach
  • guided fatbike dune tour nearby

Child friendly? No, only from 16 years old
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 2 per suite
Good to know The lodge closes for winter (1 June to 31 August). Rates include breakfast. Other meals and activities are charged separately
Cost From R7 110 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Emily Moon River Lodge

Luxury Lodges Emily Moon River Lodge
Emily Moon River Lodge Outdoor Activities
Emily Moon River Lodge Luxury Bedroom

This serene retreat offers an exceptional breakaway on the Garden Route near Plettenberg Bay. Overlooking the Bitou River, with a backdrop of forests, mountains and river valleys, the quirky lodge is dressed in rare finds and artefacts that owners Mark and Christine Valentine have accumulated during their travels through Africa and beyond. The suites are utterly comfortable and beautifully adorned, with views of the flowing river below. Wake up to the sound of birdsong as you enjoy a coffee on your private deck, soaking up the spectacular surroundings.
Signature experience Hop onto one of the hotel’s canoes and drift up the Bitou River spotting birdlife or fishing, then lounge away the afternoon by the pool.
Inside tip A wood-fired pizza and an aperitif at Simon’s at sunset is one of those Garden Route traditions you can’t miss.
What’s on offer

  • 14 luxury suites + 2 family suites, each with its own private deck overlooking the river
  • swimming pool
  • Simon’s Bar (known for serving some of the best wood-fired pizzas on the Garden Route)
  • Emily’s Restaurant (for farm-to-fork cuisine)
  • canoeing and fishing on the Bitou River (canoes provided)
  • access to hiking and mountain-biking trails
  • nearby golf courses
  • Old Nick Shopping Village

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 2 to 4 per suite
Good to know Rates include breakfast and use of canoes. Other meals and activities are changed separately.
Cost From R4 200 per suite per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

Die Aap Farm Lodge

Luxury Lodges De Aap Farm Lodge
Die Aap Farm Lodge Swimming Pool
Die Aap Farm Lodge Firepit

Hidden at the far end of the scenic Meiringspoort Pass between Prince Albert and De Rust, surrounded by the Swartberg mountains, this 2 200-hectare farm and private nature reserve is a wonderfully peaceful Karoo hideaway. The beautifully restored four-bedroom lodge dates back to 1825, its historic charm blending seamlessly with the stylish, modern interior design (think copper basins, designer seating and light fittings, contemporary art). However, it’s the magnificent Klein Karoo landscape that takes centrestage through the floor-to-ceiling windows, home to antelope, birds, reptiles and, this being the Karoo, flocks of merino sheep.
Signature experience Explore the area on guided eco-drives, or explore on foot using the informative reserve map, which highlights places of interest, as well as plants and animals to look out for.
Inside tip The dreamy pool is the perfect spot to soak up the beauty of the surrounds.
What’s on offer

  • four bedrooms with queen-size bed (two accessed from outside the main house; one with extra single bed)
  • ensuite bathrooms with access to outside
  • modern kitchen with dining counter
  • open-plan lounge and dining area with log and gas fireplace
  • library
  • 16-metre lap pool
  • furnished patio
  • firepit/braai area
  • guided eco-drives and bush walks
  • mountain-biking trails
  • Meiringspoort waterfall nearby

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Sleeps 9
Good to know This exclusive-use lodge is available on a fully-catered basis or as self-catering accommodation.
Cost From R10 100 per night (self-catering exclusive use)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

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