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 magic 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.

Which are your favourite mountain cabins? We’d love to hear about them in the comments below.

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. 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 off-grid yet filled with little luxuries. 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

• 1 bedroom with double bed
• ensuite bathroom with bath and shower, plus outdoor “field bath”
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan living area
• deck with dining table and loungers
• wood-fired hot tub
• separate boma with braai

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 cabin)
Sleeps 2
Cost R3 000 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Camissa Farm

Where Stellenbosch
Distance from CT 45 minutes
Setting Tucked on the slopes in the beautiful Banhoek Valley, surrounded by orchards and fynbos, Camissa (meaning “place of sweet water”) offers guests tranquil surrounds and contemporary style. On a 60-hectare, small-scale regenerative farm, five off-grid Scandi-style cabins beside a dam promise an unforgettable stay, where 360-degree views of the farmlands and mountains, and all the creature comforts – plus fresh farm produce (fruit, nuts, avos, olives, beef) – will have you wanting to linger longer. The croaking frogs will be the loudest noise at night.

The lodgings

• Camissa Cottage: 3 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms
• 3 one-bedroom cottages, with a sleeping pod for children or extra guest
• Agama Cabin: sleeps 2 in open-plan space, with large split-level deck and hot tub
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan lounge and dining area
• fireplace and flatscreen TV
• furnished patio with braai and/or firepit
• wood-fired hot tub (except for the Bed in the Shed)
• air-conditioning (in bedrooms)

Things to do

• swimming in the dam
• farm walks and picnics
• hiking and mountain-biking trails
• nearby wine farms (two are a short stroll away)
• explore Stellenbosch and Franschhoek (10 minutes’ drive)

Good to know There is also The Bed in the Shed, a family loft (sleeps 4) in the barn.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 6 per unit
Cost From R2 500 per night (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Mount Ceder Cottages

Where Between Ceres and Clanwilliam
Distance from CT 3 hours
Setting Within the Cederberg Conservancy, Mount Ceder is about as secluded as they come. The three eco-cottages, each in its own wonderful setting, are rustic and characterful. Former shepherd’s cottages built in the late 1800s, they have thick stone walls and reed ceilings. The surrounding landscape – famed for its brilliant sunsets, rugged beauty and red sandstone rock formations – is inescapably restorative, and nature lovers will relish daily walks to the nearby river, or up into the mountains to explore all that’s on offer.

The lodgings

• 3 one-bedroom cottages: Kliphuis, Leeustert and Melkbos
• bathroom with shower
• fireplace and seating in the bedroom
• fully equipped kitchen with dining table
• verandah with a braai plus firepit
• splash pool

Things to do

• guided and self-guided hiking trails
• swimming in rock pool (waterfall) and river
• mountain-biking routes
• canoeing in the river
• 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 There are also eight “villas” (houses) for larger groups, sleeping 4 to 8 people.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes (at the restaurant)
Sleeps 2 per cottage
Cost From R1 240 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

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 mountainside farm – surrounded by the towering Slanghoek and Badsberg Mountains, and overlooking sweeping vineyards and fynbos – five light-filled, stylishly modern and generously spaced cabins make for an ideal getaway with family or friends, no matter the season.

The lodgings

• 2 two-bedroom cabins (The Barber and Carl Everson)
• 3 one-bedroom cabins (Lang Jan, Nellie’s Needle and Lady Ansie)
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan lounge and dining room with a fireplace
• furnished deck with braai
• hot tub/plunge pool (plus outdoor shower in one-bedroom units)

Things to do

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

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 4 per cabin
Cost Two-sleeper cabins: From R1 850 per night
Four-sleeper cabins: From R2 450 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 one way (not 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; all you need to do is bring your food and drinks… and a favourite companion.

The lodgings

• 1 bedroom with extra-length king-size bed
• ensuite bathroom with slipper bath, plus outdoor shower
• additional bathroom with 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

Things to do

• relaxing in the wood-burning hot tub
• swimming in the dam
• canoeing or stand-up paddling (supplied)
• boat cruises available
• fishing from the dock
• birdwatching
• hiking in the surrounding valley

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 6pm each day.
Child friendly? Teens only
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2
Cost From R3 500 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 distant 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
• bathroom with shower and bathtub (with a view)
• fully equipped kitchen
• spacious lounge with fireplace
• large deck with gas braai
• wood-fired hot tub
• vegetarian breakfast delivered to your cabin (optional)

Things to do

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

Good to know There are four other more traditional log cabins, each sleeping two.
Child friendly? No, only teens
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per cabin
Cost From R3 600 per night (minimum two-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Fynbos Suites at Farm 215

Teagan Cunniffe

Teagan Cunniffe

Teagan Cunniffe

Teagan Cunniffe

Where Near Gansbaai
Distance from CT 2.5 hours
Setting In the off-the-beaten track Uilkraal Valley between Stanford and Cape Agulhas, Farm 215 is an awe-inspiring 800-hectare nature retreat and fynbos reserve offering an exhilarating escape surrounded by beauty. The fragrant plant life and quiet call of the countryside create a sense of peaceful seclusion, while the three modern cabins – built to blend into the landscape – offer ultra-stylish comfort and floor-to-ceiling windows to appreciate those views of the plains, a dam and vineyards (including from the bathtub).

The lodgings

• 1 bedroom ensuite (bath and shower)
• open-plan lounge and dining area
• fully equipped kitchen
• wood-burning stove
• furnished deck with dining table and gas braai
• hot tub/plunge pool

Things to do

• hiking and mountain-biking trails
• horse-riding
• swimming pool
• wine-tasting nearby
• wildlife spotting; whale-watching (in season)
• explore Pearly Beach nearby
• visit the southern tip of Africa at Agulhas
• explore Stanford (30 minutes’ drive)

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per suite
Cost From R2 400 per night (R1 980 per night Mountain View single guest)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

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 distant horizon under big skies. Both are completely 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
• fireplace
• wraparound deck with braai
• wood-fired hot tub

Things to do

• 9km 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 R3 300 per night (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Forest Whisper at Clifftop Houses

Where 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 river 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 ensuite bedrooms with queen-size beds
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan living area
• wood-burning stove
• furnished deck with gas braai
• MP3 player

Things to do

• picnic or braai in the forest boma or private bay
• hiking trails (on site)
• wildlife spotting and birdwatching
• swimming and surfing at Victoria Bay (10 minutes’ drive)
• golf nearby
• 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, 10 and above (younger children welcome at the other Clifftop Houses)
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes (minimal cellphone signal)
Sleeps 4
Cost From R3 300 per night (minimum two-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Tulbagh Mountain Cabin

Where Tulbagh
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting The majestic Witzenberg Mountains are a sight to behold: towering folds create the perfect canvas 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 beside 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) plus a single bed on the mezzanine
• 2 bathrooms (one ensuite with a rain shower), plus outdoor shower
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan dining and living room with a smart TV
• wraparound balcony with outdoor seating
• verandah with braai and dining table
• firepit area with outdoor bathtub and hammock

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 R1 650 per night
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 pook called Visgat (“fish hole”), this faraway getaway is a fantastic choice in the southern Cederberg. On a 4 500-hectare swathe of land (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.

The lodgings

• GlenDonald Cottage: 2 ensuite bedrooms with queen beds, and 2 bedrooms upstairs sharing a bathroom (1 double and 3 single beds)
• Swallows Croft: 2 bedrooms ensuite, with double beds
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan living room with fireplace and bar fridge
• dining tables inside and outside
• patio with braai and Dover stove
• wood-fired hot tub
• plunge pool
• swimming gear (tubes, inflatables, goggles etc)
• 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 (children should be supervised at all times)
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? No (and no phone reception)
Sleeps 13
Cost From R6 500 per night (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Klein-Hangklip Eco Cabin

Where Rooi-Els
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 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 braai boma

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 R3 350 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

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 four 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, 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 

• 3 one-bedroom cabins: Verreaux’s Eagle, Malachite Sunbird and Cape Canary
• 1 two-bedroom cabin (Cape Sugarbird)
• indoor and outdoor showers (except Cape Canary); outdoor bathtub at Verreaux’s Eagle
• fully equipped kitchen
• living area
• indoor fireplace (in Verreaux’s Eagle and Cape Sugarbird)
• deck with outdoor seating
• braai and firepit
• wood-burning hot tub (in Malachite Sunbird + Cape Canary)

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 690 per night (minimum two-night stay)
Two-bedroom cabin: From R2 690 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
• open-plan living room with fireplace
• fully equipped kitchen
• 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)
• skydiving nearby

Good to know Guests get a complimentary wine tasting at neighbouring Upland Organic Estate.
Child friendly No
Pet friendly No
Wifi Yes
Sleeps 2 per unit
Cost From R3 280 per night (minimum two-night stay)
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 super-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
• bathroom with freestanding bath and shower
• open-plan lounge and dining area with a fireplace
• fully equipped kitchen
• covered deck with braai and seating
• wood-fired hot tub
• pizza oven and hammock (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
• nearby wine farms
• 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 R1 950 per night
Soetdoring: From R2 300 per night
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 the 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, plus an 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? No
Pet friendly? Yes (two dogs maximum)
Wifi? No (there is cellphone reception)
Sleeps 4
Cost From R3 000 per night for two people (minimum two-night stay).
MAKE A RESERVATION

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
• USB charger and plug points

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.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? No (and no phone reception)
Sleeps 4
Cost From R4 000 per night (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Thuúla Hidden Haven

Where Hemel-en-Aarde, 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
• 1 bathroom with double shower; 1 bathroom with shower and bath (with a view)
• fully equipped kitchen
• 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

Things to do

• walking, hiking and mountain-biking trails (on site)
• swimming in dams, river pools and three waterfalls
• stand-up paddling on dams
• 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 250 for two people per night
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 its fynbos-dotted hills and sweeping farmlands. Here, perched on the view-drenched slopes, this spacious, off-grid hideaway takes centrestage with its floor-to-ceiling windows. 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. Bliss for couples, friends and families alike!

The lodgings

• 2 bedrooms with queen-size beds (one upstairs), plus two single beds 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

Things to do

• hiking trails
• mountain-biking
• 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 300 per night (minimum two-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Ebuta Mountain Eco Pods

Rebecca Ann Photography

Rebecca Ann Photography

Rebecca Ann Photography

Where Villiersdorp
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Setting High up on the slopes overlooking the vast Theewaterskloof Dam, these two secluded eco pods offer seclusion, 360-degree views and a sense of gentle, indulgent luxury. Guests can explore the apple and pear farm and the mountains behind it on hiking and biking trails (and pick fruit in season), mosey down to the water’s edge or simply relax at the pod, which has a wood-fired hot tub.

The lodgings

• 2 eco pods: one-bedroom Luna and two-bedroom Leda
• double beds with down duvets
• bathroom with shower with a view
• fully equipped kitchen
• living room with fireplace
• furnished deck with undercover braai
• wood-fired hot tub

Things to do

• walking and hiking trails
• mountain-biking
• 9-hole Theewaterskloof golf course
• dam for boating, swimming and fishing
• fruit picking (late January – May)
• wine-tasting nearby
• Cape Canopy zipline tour
• restaurants and markets in Elgin-Grabouw and Bot River

Child friendly? Yes, in Leda Pod
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 4
Cost From R1 400 per night (minimum 2-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

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