The 20 Best Mountain Cabin Escapes in the Cape

The lure of a country cabin, far away from the crowds, never fades… A place to survey the world from an elevated angle, to be immersed in nature and scenic splendour, to reset and restore mind, body and soul. Let the mountains weave their magic.

We’ve selected our favourites: think utter comfort, eco-chic design, splendid views and magical surroundings. These are boltholes equipped with all you might need to take it easy: leisurely meals, moonlit dinners, picnics and mountain hikes and, in summertime, dips in dams and rivers.

Suidster

Where Near Montagu
Distance from CT 2.5 hours
Setting Two identical barn-like cottages, Dwarriega and Poortjies, perched amid fynbos on a 110-hectare Klein Karoo farm, look out over the Langeberg Mountains and distant horizon under big skies. Both are totally off-grid with minimal footprint (carbon and physical) to disturb nature as little as possible. It’s stark but also exquisite – and the same goes for the interior. Designed to be a single, elegant, light-filled space, there is no division between the sleeping, bathing and living areas; no walls except the outer dark-metal-clad shell. It’s a Zen-like space that provides an intimate refuge in nature.

The lodgings 

• king-size bed
• freestanding bath and shower, plus outdoor shower
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan lounge and dining area with fireplace
• wraparound deck with braai
• wood-fired hot tub

Things to do

• 5km hiking trail
• picnics
• explore Montagu (30km)
• visit Barrydale (40km)
• wine-tastings nearby

Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? By prior arrangement
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per cottage
Cost From R2 950 per night (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Bergsicht Outpost

Where Tulbagh
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting Tucked away on a sprawling fruit farm, these two cabins – elevated on stilts and set apart from the others – offer a sleek, modern, adults-only update on a rural stay. The open-plan design conveys a feeling of both light-filled space and intimacy, with an easy flow from inside to the gorgeous outdoors. They’re furnished in style in a neutral palette, from the leather sofa and patterned rugs on screed floors to the fine bed linen. With panoramic vistas of serene orchards and the majestic Winterhoek and Witzenberg mountains, Bergsicht Outpost delivers a magical countryside escape – complete with hot tub and a sought-after sense of tranquillity.

The lodgings

• king-size extra-length bed
• ensuite with walk-in shower and freestanding bath
• self-catering – fully equipped kitchen with gas stove and coffee machine
• living/dining room with fireplace
• covered deck with braai, loungers and dining table
• wood-fired hot tub
• air-conditioning
• Bluetooth speaker

Things to do

• picnicking (couples picnic basket available)
• walks on the farm
• explore the town (8km away)
• Tulbagh wine route
• horse-riding and mountain-biking trails nearby

Good to know The Outpost cabins are near to each other and can be booked together. Bergsicht also has 2 family cottages and 4 other couple’s cottages.
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per cabin
Cost From R2 400 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Edenveldt Farm Cottages

Where Near Clanwilliam
Distance from CT 3 hours
Setting Orchards juxtaposed with rugged Cederberg wilderness (the 400-hectare farm is part wildlife sanctuary) is the enviable setting for three glorious stone cottages and a restored old barn, each in its own private garden with a plunge pool. With a river nearby for wild swimming in rock pools and 400 hectares of wide open spaces to explore, this is a nature escape that’s also filled with stylish creature comforts (superb bedding, top-of-the-range speakers, Nespresso machine…).

The lodgings

• 3 one-bedroom cottages: Aardvark, Hoopoe and Wild Olive
• 1 converted barn: Baboon House
• king-size bed
• bathroom with shower, plus outdoor shower at Baboon House
• fully equipped kitchen
• living and dining area with fireplace
• furnished verandah with a daybed
• braai area/firepit
• swimming pool
• boules court at Baboon House
• complimentary firewood

Things to do

• swimming in the pool and river pools
• farm walks
• hiking trails
• birdwatching and wildlife spotting
• stargazing

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per cottage
Cost From R2 400 per night (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Sand Cabins at Nima Lodge

Where Wilderness
Distance from CT 5 hours
Setting Looking over wooded hills and valleys to the Outeniqua Mountains, this hilltop boutique lodge is a beautiful, inspiring space to retreat into nature. The three extraordinary architect-designed 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.

The lodgings

• 1 bedroom with king-size bed
• ensuite with shower and bathtub (with a view)
• fully equipped kitchen with Nespresso machine
• spacious lounge with fireplace
• large deck with gas braai
• wood-fired hot tub
• vegetarian breakfast delivered to your cabin (optional)
• champagne picnic setup in your cabin (extra fee)
• honesty bar and shop (for basics)
• complimentary firewood

Things to do

• hiking trail to the Kingfisher Waterfall
• Wilderness beach close by
• canoeing on the lakes and rivers
• forest adventures, including horse-riding
• “Map of Africa” paragliding nearby
• massages available

Good to know There are also three Sun log cabins (with hot tubs), plus Luna Cabin (with its own sauna, swimming pool and hot tub), each sleeping two.
Child friendly? No, only teens
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per cabin
Cost From R4 200 per night (minimum two-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Tulbagh Mountain Cabin

Where Wolseley, near Tulbagh
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting The majestic Witzenberg Mountains are a sight to behold: towering folds create the perfect backdrop for sunrises, sunsets and everything in between. Tucked at the foot of these giants, in a private game park where springbok, zebras and red hartebeest roam, is a classic, thatched log cabin with a lawned garden that runs down to a river. Ensconced in the natural beauty of the surrounding Tulbagh wine route, it offers a wonderful reprieve away from it all, but with quick access to a range of outdoor activities.

The lodgings

• 2 bedrooms (one in the loft), 1 queen bed and 2 single beds + 3/4 bed on mezzanine
• 2 bathrooms (one ensuite with a rain shower), plus outdoor shower
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan dining and living room with fireplace
• smart TV with Netflix
• wraparound balcony with outdoor seating
• verandah with braai and dining table
• firepit gazebo with outdoor bathtub and hammock
• air-conditioning and ceiling fans

Things to do

• walks and picnics
• wildlife spotting
• swimming (two communal pools)
• hiking and mountain-biking trails
• wine-tasting nearby
• horse-riding nearby
• shops and restaurants in town (15 minutes’ drive)

Good to know There is also the modern timber Bungalow (sleeps 4) on the property.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 5
Cost From R2 650 per night (minimum two-night stay on weekends)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Mount Grey Cabins

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. In the midst of it are three luxury eco-cabins, 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, they’re off-grid yet filled with little luxuries. It’s the perfect romantic time-out for couples who want to reconnect and restore their souls in nature – mountain hikes and hidden waterfalls await.

The lodgings

• 3 cabins: Protea, Pincushion and Sewejaartjie
• 1 bedroom with double bed
• ensuite with bath and shower, plus outdoor “field bath”
• fully equipped kitchen with Smeg stove
• open-plan living area with fireplace
• deck with dining table and loungers
• wood-fired hot tub
• separate boma with braai
• complimentary firewood

Things to do

• walks and picnics on the farm
• swimming in mountain pools and waterfalls
• hiking
• mountain biking
• restaurants and Saturday market in Greyton

Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? No (and no phone signal at cabins)
Sleeps 2
Cost From R4 300 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Untether Olive View

Where Wellington
Distance from CT 1 hour
Setting In the foothills of the Hawequas Mountains, this olive farm provides a beguiling escape into nature. With just three luxury pods spaced far from each other, it’s the ideal spot to leave the busy world behind. The solar-powered cabins – Hemingway, Columbus and Romeo – are modern, light-filled and dressed in natural tones that echo the scenery outside. Gaze over the olive orchard, breathe in the fragrant fynbos, listen to the birdsong and simply daydream.

The lodgings

• 1 bedroom with king-sized bed
• bathroom with shower, plus outdoor shower
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan living room with fireplace
• deck with dining table, braai and pizza oven
• wood-fired hot tub
• picnic basket and blanket, flask and cooler box
• air-conditioning

Things to do

• nature walks and hiking
• mountain-biking
• picnics
• explore Limietberg Nature Reserve
• Bainskloof river pools and waterfalls
• wine farms nearby
• restaurants and cafés in Wellington (12 minutes)

Good to know Guests get a complimentary wine-tasting at a Wellington wine estate.
Child friendly No
Pet friendly No
Wifi Yes
Sleeps 2 per unit
Cost From R3 320 per night (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

GlenDonald Cottage

Where Witzenberg Valley, near Prince Alfred Hamlet and Ceres
Distance from CT 3 hours
Setting Built just above a crystal-clear rock pool called Visgat (“fish hole”), this faraway getaway is a fantastic choice in the southern Cederberg. On a 4 500-hectare swathe of wilderness (protected in partnership with CapeNature), at the headwaters of the Olifants River, it’s a world of spectacular rock formations, ravines, gorges and fynbos. There’s lots to explore, but the inviting Visgat – the focal point of your stay – might keep you rooted to the spot. Accommodation is in a 1960s stone cottage with an adjacent garden cottage.

The lodgings

• GlenDonald Cottage: 2 ensuite bedrooms with queen beds + 2 bedrooms upstairs sharing a bathroom (1 double and 3 single beds)
• Swallow’s Croft: 2 bedrooms ensuite, with double beds
• fully equipped kitchen (gas stove, oven, fridge, freezer)
• open-plan living room with fireplace and bar fridge
• dining tables inside and outside
• patio with braai/fire pit, gas stove and Dover stove/oven
• wood-fired hot tub
• plunge pool
• swimming gear (tubes, inflatables, goggles, etc)
• board games, books, puzzles and boules
• USB charger (no plug points)

Things to do

• swimming in the river pool, plunge pool or waterfalls
• play boules
• fly-fishing (catch-and-release)
• hiking trails (on site)
• mountain-biking
• rock art
• birdwatching
• guided kloofing (in summer)

Good to know There are three similar options: River Cottage (sleeps 7), Orchard Cottage (sleeps 8) and Trout Pod (sleeps 4). The last 1.5km of the road leading to GlenDonald requires a vehicle with high clearance.
Child friendly? Yes (supervised at all times)
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? No (and no phone reception)
Sleeps 13
Cost From R7 500 per night (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Thuúla Hidden Haven

Where Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, near Hermanus
Distance from CT 1 hour 45 mins
Setting With its almost-all-white colour scheme, there’s something reminiscent of the Greek Isles about this abode – but instead of ocean views, there’s a sea of green fields, fynbos-clad hills, rugged mountains and big skies. The clean-lined design adds to the Grecian fantasy: square picture windows perfectly framing those views; built-in seating in well-chosen spots. It’s utterly stylish, calming – and completely off-grid. Situated on an 80-hectare farm, in a stunning valley renowned for its wines, you’ll quickly understand its name (it means “silence”).

The lodgings

• 2 ensuite bedrooms (queen-size bed and 2 singles/king bed)
• 1 bathroom with double shower; 1 bathroom with shower and bath (with a view)
• fully equipped kitchen
• Smeg Bean-to-Cup coffee machine
• open-plan living area with dining table and fireplace
• courtyard with dining table, braai and pizza oven
• wood-fired hot tub
• separate verandah with seating
• Marshall speaker
• solar power (100% off-grid)

Things to do

• walking, hiking and mountain-biking trails (on site)
• swimming in dams, river pools and three waterfalls
• stand-up paddling
• wine farms and restaurants of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
• horse-riding nearby
• restaurants, markets, beaches and more in Hermanus (10 minutes’ drive)

Good to know Minimum two-night stay on weekends, with late check-out on Sunday.
Child friendly Yes (camping cot on request)
Pet friendly Yes, on request
Wifi Yes
Sleeps 4
Cost From R3 500 for two people per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Tula Retreat

Where Near Calitzdorp
Distance from CT 4.5 hours
Setting There are not many mountain escapes that begin with a boat ride. It’s the only way to access this tented cabin overlooking the Calitzdorp Dam, with nothing but rolling hills and the Klein Karoo mountains behind it. There’s an open-plan sleeping and living area, and a separate fully equipped outdoor kitchen about 100 metres away – all of it drenched in views. It’s off-grid, with LED and lantern lighting, solar power and “fire” power – think braais, cosy fireplaces indoors and out, and a hot tub. It has everything you need, from luxury bed linen, towels and bathroom amenities to books, board games and yoga mats.

The lodgings

• 1 bedroom with extra-length king-size bed
• ensuite with slipper bath plus outdoor shower
• open-plan lounge with fireplace and tea/coffee/drinks cabinet
• deck with dining table and hammock
• separate outdoor/bush kitchen with gas stove and fridge
• firepit/braai area
• hot tub/plunge pool
• complimentary firewood
• pre-packed meals available (extra fee)
• 1 caravan (sleeps 2 in double bed) with bathroom and shower for extra guests

Things to do 

• swimming in the dam
• canoeing or stand-up paddling (supplied)
• boat cruises and guided kayaking available
• 2 hiking trails on-site
• fishing from the dock
• birdwatching
• massages available
• Groenfontein Valley Cycle Route (BYO bike)

Good to know You can bring your own jetski or motorboat for waterskiing, which is permitted on the dam. Staff are on call from 8am to 5pm each day.
Child friendly? Teens only
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 4
Cost From R4 600 per night for two adults (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

The Trout Pod

Where Witzenberg Valley, near Prince Alfred Hamlet and Ceres
Distance from CT 3 hours
Setting With the meandering Olifants River a few steps away, this modern off-grid cottage is the ultimate fly-fisher’s dream… but it’s also a wonderful hideaway for anyone who loves the wilderness. Situated on a 4 500-hectare property (protected in partnership with CapeNature) in the southern Cederberg, there are plenty of ravines and gorges to explore. Or you could just stay put, enjoying the fishing, tin-drum hot tub and fantastic views from the verandah.

The lodgings

• 2 bedrooms with queen-size beds
• 2 ensuite bathrooms with gas-heated shower
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan living room
• verandah with daybeds and braai
• wood-fired hot tub
• complimentary firewood

Things to do

• fly-fishing (catch-and-release)
• hiking trails (on site)
• swimming in the river pool or waterfalls
• mountain-biking
• rock art
• birdwatching
• guided kloofing (in summer)

Good to know To access the cottage, a vehicle with high clearance is advisable. There is a shop on-site for basics (and cellphone reception).
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? No (and no phone reception)
Sleeps 4
Cost From R4 500 per night (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Oomblik Cabin

Where Breërivier, near Wellington
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting Secreted away in the Mount Bain Private Nature Reserve, this solar-powered sanctuary on the slopes of the Hawequas Mountains echoes its pristine surroundings with designer decor in earthy, elemental tones and natural textures – and foldaway doors to let in the fresh air, magnificent views and fragrance of fynbos. The views from your bed and bath are so divine, you might never want to get out… Oomblik means “moment”, and there are sure to be many magical ones here.

The lodgings

• 2 bedrooms with king-size beds and fireplaces
• 2 bathrooms (with freestanding tub), plus outdoor shower
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan living and dining room with fireplace
• patio with seating and braai
• wood-fired hot tub
• supersized hammock

Things to do

• hiking trails, including to a waterfall
• river swimming and rock pools
• mountain-biking
• wildlife and bird-watching
• breakfast at the farmstall
• wine-tasting and gin distillery nearby
• pizza at Calabash Bush Pub

Good to know The last 100 metres to the cabin require a higher clearance car, but a shuttle service is available.
Child friendly? Yes, by arrangement
Pet friendly? Yes (two dogs maximum)
Wifi? No (there is cellphone reception)
Sleeps 4
Cost From R3 500 per night for two people (minimum two-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Opstal Stay

Where Rawsonville
Distance from CT 1 hour
Setting For fresh mountain water in your taps and true country-style hospitality, head to the lesser-travelled, picturesque Slanghoek Valley. On the slopes of a seventh-generation mountainside farm – surrounded by the towering Slanghoek and Badsberg Mountains, and overlooking sweeping vineyards, orchards and fynbos – five light-filled, stylishly modern and generously spaced-apart cabins make for an ideal getaway with family or friends, no matter the season.

The lodgings

• 2 two-bedroom, two-bathroom cabins (The Barber and Carl Everson)
• 3 one-bedroom cabins (Lang Jan, Nellie’s Needle and Lady Ansie)
• king-size beds and singles
• ensuite with bath and/or shower (plus outdoor shower in one-bed units)
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan lounge and dining room with fireplace
• furnished deck with braai
• hot tub/plunge pool
• air-conditioning and ceiling fan
• complimentary firewood
• DIY braai and breakfast baskets to order (extra cost)

Things to do

• nature walks and hiking trail
• mountain-biking
• on-site restaurant (breakfast, pizzas, platters, lunch and Sunday lunch)
• on-site wine-tasting
• “tractor-train” vineyard ride with a picnic
• midweek harvest experience (February + March)
• wine farms of the Breedekloof Valley

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 4 per cabin
Cost Two-sleeper cabins: From R2 000 per night
Four-sleeper cabins: From R2 600 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Copia Eco Cabins

Where Bot River
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting On Kiesseskraal Farm on the Van der Stel Pass, these converted shipping containers are the perfect off-grid stay for an overdose of nature and seclusion (“copia” means abundance in Latin). Owner Lucas Steyn built them himself, with comfort and the unspoilt surroundings in mind. Recently added ultra-modern Soetdoring cabin has a “glass cube” bedroom and floor-to-ceiling windows to maximise the views. With little phone reception and no wifi or TV, there’s nothing to do but unplug and enjoy the hilltop views and nature’s soundtrack.

The lodgings

• 4 one-bedroom cabins: Copia, Lone Tree, Waterval and Soetdoring
• extra-large king-size beds
• ensuite with freestanding bath and shower
• open-plan lounge and dining area with a fireplace
• fully equipped kitchen
• covered deck with braai, seating and cargo hammock
• wood-fired hot tub
• pizza oven (at Soetdoring)

Things to do

• walks and picnics on the farm
• in-cabin massage available
• hiking in the scenic Kogelberg Reserve
• mountain-biking and fly-fishing on neighbouring farm
• Bot River and Elgin wine routes and restaurants
• beach and golf in Kleinmond (30km)
• visit Hermanus (42km); whale watching in season

Good to know There is a minimum two-night stay on weekends.
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? No
Sleeps 2 per cabin
Cost From R2 000 per night
Soetdoring: From R2 650 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Stonewood Mountain Cabin

Where Bainskloof, near Wellington
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting With its fynbos-dotted hills and sweeping landscapes, the 660-hectare Mount Bain Private Nature Reserve is a sight to behold. As is this classic, fairytale (off-grid) log cabin… Perched on the view-drenched slopes, it takes centrestage with its floor-to-ceiling windows over two levels, high-beamed ceilings and wraparound deck. Utterly private, there’s nothing but starlit skies and birdsong to keep you company (coupled with your getaway crew, of course). It’s a natural playground to explore, with an exclusive section of the Witte River reserved for guests.

The lodgings

• 2 bedrooms with queen-size beds (one upstairs), plus two singles in living area
• 2 bathrooms (one with a clawfoot tub, one with a nature shower)
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan lounge and dining area with stone fireplace
• reading nook with a library and board games
• deck with gas braai and outdoor seating
• bluetooth speaker

Things to do

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

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 6
Cost From R2 500 per night (minimum two-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Leopard Valley Eco Retreat

Where Between Citrusdal and Clanwilliam
Distance from CT 2 hours
The 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 nature. Shipping containers have been upcycled 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. Mountain springs feed a dam, waterlily pond and swimming pool close by for dipping in; two cabins have wood-fired hot tubs for magical stargazing, one has an outdoor bathtub.

The lodgings 

• 4 one-bed cabins: Verreaux’s Eagle, Malachite Sunbird, Cape Canary + Cape Weaver
• 1 two-bedroom family cabin (Cape Sugarbird)
• bathroom with shower, plus outdoor showers (except Cape Canary + Cape Weaver)
• fully equipped kitchen
• living area
• indoor fireplace (in Verreaux’s Eagle and Cape Sugarbird)
• deck with outdoor seating
• braai and firepit
• hot tub (at Malachite Sunbird + Cape Canary); outdoor bathtub at Verreaux’s Eagle
• private rustic pools (at Verreaux’s Eagle, Cape Sugarbird + Cape Weaver)

Things to do

• swimming
• hiking trails (rock formations, San rock paintings)
• birdwatching and animal-spotting
• stargazing

Good to know Leopard Valley also has four glamping tents, each sleeping 2–3 people, with a private hot tub, an outdoor kitchenette and a private or shared bathroom.
Child friendly? Yes, over 10 years old
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 4
Cost From R1 790 per night (minimum two-night stay)
Two-bedroom cabin: From R2 890 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Klein-Hangklip Eco Cabin

Where Rooi-Els, near Pringle Bay
Distance from CT 1 hour
Setting Within the protected environment of the Overberg’s 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 blue-sky and ocean views all the way across False Bay. Needless to say, the sunsets here are magnificent.

The lodgings

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

Things to do

• swimming at Rooi-Els beach
• exploring rock pools
• hiking trails nearby (Kogelberg Reserve)
• bird 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 100 per night (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Mount Ceder

Where Between Ceres and Clanwilliam
Distance from CT 3 hours
Setting Set in the Grootrivier Valley below dramatic slopes, Mount Ceder is about as secluded as they come. The self-catering escape offers a selection of houses (villas and mini-villas, as they’re called), each unique in style and with their own charms – Klipbokkop, however, is the showstopper; Taaibos is next to the river and Waboomhoek is closest to the river pools. The surrounding landscape, part of the greater Cederberg Conservancy, is famed for its rugged beauty, red sandstone rock formations and brilliant sunsets. It’s magnificently restorative, and nature lovers will relish daily walks along the river or up into the mountains.

The lodgings

• 1 four-bedroom villa and 4 three-bedroom villas (including loft rooms)
• 1 two-bedroom villa (with extra daybeds in lounge)
• 3 one-bedroom mini-villas (with single beds in lounge)
• bathrooms with bath (and shower in selected houses)
• fully equipped kitchen
• living room with fireplace
• verandah or deck with dining and braai area
• wood-fired hot tub or jacuzzi (in 6 houses; Klipbokkop has both)
• air-conditioning and ceiling fans
• garden/lawn area
• braai boxes and lunch packs (extra cost)

Things to do

• hiking trails on-site (with guided option)
• swimming in river, rock pools and waterfall (seasonal)
• mountain-biking routes (bikes to rent)
• paddling in the river (canoes to rent)
• San rock art in caves
• meals and local wines at the Old Mill House (on-site)
• olive-oil tasting and farm tour
• “junior ranger” outdoor adventures (fishing, fossils, archery etc)
• stargazing

Good to know Olienhout, Kamferboom and Peperboom mini-villas are clustered together (ideal for group getaways) close to the restaurant. There is a minimum two-night stay on weekends.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes (at the restaurant)
Sleeps 6 – 8 per villa; 4 per mini-villa
Cost Villa: From R2 062 per night
Mini-villa: From R1 788 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

The River Retreat Kogelberg

Where Near Kleinmond
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting An unspoilt location that immerses you in nothing but swathes of fynbos wildflowers and craggy mountainscapes, this getaway offers two solar-powered timber cottages on the banks of the Palmiet River in a valley in the Kogelberg Nature Reserve. Upstream and Downstream, dwarfed by the magnificent scenery, are so off-grid that you’ll need to unplug completely. Picture morning swims, fynbos hikes, river picnics, starry night skies and total tranquillity. The interiors of the cottages are light and spacious, simply furnished in natural textures and gentle hues, with large windows everywhere bringing this magnificent landscape up close.

The lodgings

• 2 cottages (two bedrooms each, with queen bed and 2 singles)
• 1 bathroom with shower
• kitchen with gas stove, oven and fridge (no kettle, toaster, etc)
• open-plan living area with fireplace
• furnished deck with dining table
• small garden area
• shared picnic deck next to the river
• complimentary firewood

Things to do

• swimming in the river or lagoon and ocean (beaches nearby)
• walks and hiking trails on-site and in adjacent Harold Porter Botanical Gardens
• penguin sanctuary at Stony Point
• mountain-biking in the reserve and nearby
• restaurants, cafés and shops in Kleinmond (5km), Betty’s Bay (10km), Pringle Bay (18km) and Rooi-Els (21km)
• wine routes: Hemel-en-Aarde, Bot River and Elgin
• activities and whale watching in Hermanus (40km)

Good to know No braais or outdoor fires permitted. The cottages are set apart for privacy but close enough to walk between for a group exclusive rental.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? No (and no phone reception)
Sleeps 4 per cottage
Cost From R3 500 per night (minimum two-night stay)
Where to find it Next to Kogelberg Nature Reserve, Oudebosch Road, off R44, near Kleinmond
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Forest Whisper at Clifftop Houses

Where Near Victoria Bay, between George and Wilderness
Distance from CT 5 hours
Setting The lush indigenous forest of hidden Ballots Nature Reserve enfolds this enchanting retreat in peace and birdsong. Built on several levels, the modern treehouse villa is perched on the edge of a steep gorge with breathtaking views down to the estuary, pebbly beach and ocean, and the glass and timber living spaces feel like part of the forest. It’s the perfect place to escape the world, soak up tranquillity and reconnect with the rhythms of nature.

The lodgings

• 2 bedrooms with queen-size beds
• 2 ensuite bathrooms with glass-walled bath and shower
• fully equipped kitchen with Smeg stove
• open-plan living area
• wood-burning stove
• furnished deck with gas braai
• MP3 player

Things to do

• enjoy the private pebble beach (no swimming)
• braai in the forest boma or picnic on the beach
• hiking trails on-site
• birdwatching
• sundowners in the meadow overlooking zebra and wildebeest
• swimming and surfing at Victoria Bay (10 minutes’ drive)
• whale-watching (June to November)
• explore Wilderness and Sedgefield (15 minutes’ drive)

Good to know There are two other Clifftop Houses, The Bee’s Knees (2 bedrooms) and The Cat’s Whiskers (3 bedrooms).
Child friendly? Yes, but be aware of split-level living
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes (minimal cellphone signal)
Sleeps 4
Cost From R3 800 per night (minimum two-night stay)
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