The Best Secluded Winter Getaways in the Cape

Source: The Best Winter Getaways in The Cape 2019 first appeared on insideguide.co.za

From a farm cottage in a lush valley, to a luxury suite built into the mountainside, winter escapes have never been as exciting and inviting. We’ve selected our favourites in the Cape.

PETERSFIELD FARM

Where Citrusdal
Distance from CT 2 hours
Situated on an citrus and rooibos tea mountain estate, with spectacular views of the Cederberg mountains and golden valleys of Citrusdal, these four self-catering cottages are well kitted out, and positioned for maximum privacy. Surrounded by streams, oak trees and orchards, the farm offers a plethora of activities from hiking and swimming to bird-watching and braaing!
Cosy cred The romantic Stonehaven Cottage is especially winter-friendly, with a fireplace in the lounge and a double bath with views of the veld. It’s mostly powered by solar energy, but also includes a gas-powered stove and geyser.
Good to know Pets are welcome on Petersfield Farm.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Each cottage has a private plunge pool and braai area
• Hiking trails
• Swimming in the mountain dam
• Bird-watching
• Nearby town of Citrusdal

Contact, 022 921 3316, info@petersfieldfarm.co.za
Cost R1 200 – R1 700 per night (depending on season, and number of occupants)
Location Petersfield (via N7)

FOSSIL HILLS

Where McGregor
Distance from CT 2.5 hours
This majestic stone cottage on Thornvilla, a working wine farm in McGregor, is the answer to all your secluded dreams. Like something out of a romantic movie getaway, Fossil Hills (named after the fossils once found on the property) is perched above the grape vines on a quiet hill overlooking the valley. Its stone walls and thatch roof add a rustic feel to the fully equipped four-sleeper house, which is a wonderfully peaceful place to rest your head after a day spent exploring all the outdoor activities. Or, find a spot on the covered verandah – with a book and cup of tea – before hopping into the outdoor hot tub… After a few days in this tranquil slice of heaven, you’ll might find yourself considering moving to the Karoo for good.
Cosy cred There’s an outdoor hot tub, indoor and outdoor fireplace and braai (firewood included), covered verandah, heater, and a bath as well as a shower.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Two mountain bikes are available for use on the trails
• Kayaking at the dam
• Bird-watching
• Fishing
• Picnicking
• Restaurants, coffee shops and art galleries in nearby McGregor
• Wine-tasting along the R62 wine route
• A boat cruise up the Breede River from nearby wine farm Viljoendrift

Contact 023 625 1743, info@fossilhills.co.za
Cost From R1200 per night (during the week) – R1400 (over the weekend)
Bookings Check availability and book online
Location Fossil Hills, Thornvilla Farm, McGregor, Breede River Valley, Western Cape

KOLKOL MOUNTAIN LODGE

Where Bot River
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
No one’s going to find you up here… in this log cabin in the mountains. Breathe in some fresh mountain air while relaxing in a wood-fired hot tub. There are several cabins, each designed for a certain number of guests – all of which have fully equipped kitchens and braai facilities.
Cosy cred  The aforementioned wood-fired hot tub on the outside patio is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Inside, there’s a lounge with a CD player and stone fireplace.
Nearby and onsite attractions

• Three-kilometre hiking trail
• A gravel road for mountain-biking
• A nearby dam for swimming
• Kogelberg Nature Reserve
• Nearby towns include Hermanus and Stanford

Cost 2-sleeper cabin: R1 680 – R1 980 (2 nights or more)
KolKol Log Cabin: R1 680 – R3 200 (2 – 6 guests, 2 nights or more)
King Log Cabin: R2 500 – R5 050 (2 – 10 guests, 2 nights or more)
Rates valid until 14 December 2018
Contact 076 913 6014 (Enquiries), 082 654 5090 (Karen), info@kolkol.co.za
Location KolKol Mountain Lodge, Van der Stel pass (via N2)

OUDEBOSCH ECO CABINS

Where Kleinmond
Distance from CT 1.5 – 2 hours
These slick, self-catering cabins lie in the midst of the Kogelberg Nature Reserve – considered by many to be the most beautiful of CapeNature’s protected areas. A series of wooden walkways connect the various structures, forming a small village with a tranquil eco-pool at the centre, and each cabin is glass-fronted, inviting the mesmerising surrounding landscape in. Great care has been taken to minimise their impact on the surrounding environment.
There are five eco-cabins, each with two bedrooms, a bathroom (shower only), lounge, dining area and a kitchen equipped with a fridge/freezer, microwave and toaster. Each cabin has a courtyard with braai facilities. Bedding and towels are provided, and there are power points available for charging electrical appliances. There is no cell phone or TV reception. Two of the cabins have wheelchair access.
Cosy cred Solar and gas power ensures heated water for the shower, and electricity for the kitchen appliances, so guests can remain warm inside while the rain patters against the glass-fronted walls.
Good to know CapeNature is offering a winter special: 40% off all accommodation, valid until 31 August 2018.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Kogelberg Nature Reserve
• White-water kayaking on the Palmiet River (available through outside providers)
• Hiking trails (such as the Palmiet River Walk and Kogelberg Trail)
• African Penguin Colony at Stony Point
• Whale-watching on the coast

Cost R1 170 per night (sleeps 4)
Please note A permit is required to explore Kogelberg Nature Reserve (R40, adults; R20, children), and can be purchased at the reserve office, or directly from CapeNature.
Contact 021 483 0190, reservation.alert@capenature.co.za
Location Kogelberg Nature Reserve (via N2 and R44)

TIERHOEK COTTAGES

Where Robertson
Distance from CT 2 hours
This collection of cottages situated on an organic fruit farm is surrounded by rolling green hills and mountains that shield you from the outside world. Each of the cottages is comfortably furnished, with outdoor verandahs where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful farm life.
Cosy cred The cottages have fireplaces and braai areas; some are equipped with DStv and wi-fi, while others are tech-free (for those who desire a clean break).
Good to know Pets are allowed by arrangement.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Most of the cottages have private swimming pools
• Hiking and mountain-biking trails
• Bird-watching
• Farm animals (including cows, pigs, sheep and donkeys)
• Wildlife in the surrounding reserve
• Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary
• Boat rides on the Breede River
• Wine-tasting in the Robertson Wine Valley
• Restaurants and stores in Robertson

Contact 023 626 1191 / 082 789 9205, tierhoekcottages@barvallei.co.za
Cost Tierhoek House & Cottage: R2 560 per night (up to 4 adults); R270 per additional adult
Quince Cottage: R1 240 per night (2 adults); R270 per additional adult
Pepper Tree Cottage: R1 100 per night (2 adults)
Fig Tree House and Cottage: R3 000 per night (up to 4 adults); R270 per additional adult
Stone Cottage: R1 250 per night (2 adults)
R140 per child (3 – 12 years)
Free for children (0 – 2 years)
Bookings Check availability and book online
Location Tierhoek Organic Farm, Noree Valley (via N1 and R60)

INDIA HOUSE

Where Worcester
Distance from CT 1.5 – 2 hours
With the mountain looming behind it, a tranquil pool in front and the lush Bastiaanskloof Estate and nature reserve surrounding it, India House (named for its unique turquoise front door, imported from Gujarat, India) is the picture of perfect seclusion.
The accommodation sleeps up to six people in two main bedrooms (with en-suite bathrooms and outdoor showers) and a third bedroom with en-suite shower room. The surrounding reserve, populated by over 800 plant species, 200 bird species and 50 mammal species (including the mountain leopard and chacma baboon) ensures a remote and peaceful getaway with only the sounds of nature to keep you company at night.
Cosy cred There’s a large fireplace, and underfloor heating in the bedrooms and bathrooms. There’s also a library, where guests can relax with a book or a board game on rainy days.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Private swimming pool
• 2 500 hectare private nature reserve
• Hiking trails
• Bird-watching
• Nearby towns of Ceres, Tulbagh and Wellington

Contact 076 198 0234, reservations@bastiaanskloof.co.za
Cost Until 31 August 2018: R3 880 – R5 200 per night (depending on season)
1 September to 11 December 2018: R4 200 – R6 200 per night (depending on season)
Location Bastiaanskloof Estate, R301, Bain’s Kloof Pass

ORANGE GROVE FARM

Where Robertson Wine Valley
Distance from CT 2 hours
Venture into the heart of the Robertson Wine Valley and you’ll find this serene wine and olive farm, hidden amid waterfalls and rock formations, like a South African Shangri La. The farm offers an escape into nature coupled with luxurious mountain- and vineyard-facing accommodation.
Cosy cred The six cottages are spaced far enough apart for ample privacy. They all have their own verandas with braai facilities, indoor fireplaces, tea- and coffee-making facilities, DStv and free wi-fi.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Private swimming pools
• Massage therapies available on request
• Breakfast baskets, picnic baskets and braai baskets available on request
• Peerboom Dam hike (self-guided)
• Ridge hike (self-guided)
• Nature drives
• Bird-watching

Cost Mosesberg (sleeps 2): R2 700 – R3 820 per night (depending on season)
Longlands, Delportshoop, Fineview & Buffelsbank (sleeps 4): R2 700 – R5 920 per night (depending on season and number of occupants)
Wouterspan (sleeps 6): R3 590 – R7 940 per night (depending on season and number of occupants)
Contact 023 626 6442, info@ogf1812.co.za
Bookings Check availability and book online
Location Noree Road (off R60 via N1)

SEVEN OAKS VINEYARD COTTAGES

Where Wolseley
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
This working wine and fruit farm offers comfortable accommodation in the form of four self-catering cottages. Enjoy a peaceful farm getaway in view of 55 hectare vineyards, on an estate dating back to 1813. Award-winning wines are available from the cellar, adding some additional warmth to this winter hideaway.
Cosy cred Each cottage is warmed by a fireplace, and has a wood-fired Turkish bath next to the stoep, where you can relax and gaze at the stars. There are also braai facilities, and a well-equipped kitchen.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Walking and cycling in the surrounding vineyards and orchards
• Wine-tasting in the estate cellar
• Hiking trails in the Slanghoek Valley
• The towns of Wolseley and Ceres
• Karoo Desert National Botanical Garden
• Fairy Glen Private Game Reserve

Contact 083 639 0405, jacqui@sevenoaks.co.za
Cost Merlot Cottage & Shiraz Cottage: R1 550 – R2 050 per night (sleeps 4)
Pinotage Cottage & Malbec Cottage: R950 – R1 450 per night (sleeps 2)
Location Seven Oaks Farm, Off R43 (between Worcester and Ceres)

WILDEKRANS COUNTRY HOUSE

Where Elgin
Distance from CT 1 hour
The rustic charm of a 19th-century homestead, warm hospitality, and the peace and quiet of country living… it doesn’t get better than this. The house is surrounded by lush gardens, decorated with a collection of unique South African art pieces and sculptures.
There are three en-suite bedrooms: Mountain View Suite (with a balcony, living room with a fireplace, and a library); Art Room (decorated with contemporary South African art); and Garden View (the owner’s personal favourite, for the views of the garden and swimming pool). Each room has a double bed and a private bathroom, and all are equipped with DStv and wireless internet.
Cosy cred On a rainy winter afternoon, snuggle up around one of the two fireplaces, with an old classic from the heaving bookshelves.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Swimming pool
• Mountain-biking and hiking trails in the surrounding area
• Nearby wine estates
• The charming village of Houw Hoek (a visit to the Houw Hoek Farm Stall for delicious homemade pies is obligatory)

Cost Art Room & Garden View: R1 160 per night (for two people, includes breakfast)
Mountain View Suite: R1 340 per night (for two people, includes breakfast)
Self-catering Cottage: R1 100 – R1 680 (for up to 4 people)
Self-catering Homestead: R3 330 per night (for six people); R400 per extra person; breakfast and braai available at additional charge
Contact 028 284 9827, info@wildekrans.co.za
Location On the N2 to Garden Route & Hermanus

TANAGRA FARAWAY COTTAGE

Where McGregor Valley
Distance from CT 2 – 2.5 hours
The spiritual silence of the Great Karoo envelopes this hidden gem, a lone cottage against the backdrop of the Langeberg Mountains. The night sky may stretch out forever here, but the house itself is warm and inviting.
Cosy cred There’s an open fireplace in the lounge, and a kitchenette equipped with a gas stove, fridge and freezer. The outdoor stoep has braai facilities, and perfect views of the surrounding mountains and pristine Karoo veld. Handcrafted liquor from the nearby wine farm also keeps the cold at bay.
Fun fact Tanagra Wine Farm is named for the old wild fig tree that still shields the homestead from the sun (Tanagra is the Khoisan expression for a shaded place).
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Plunge pool
• Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve
• Walking and hiking trails
• Boutique wines and grappa at Tanagra Wine Farm

Cost Until 30 September 2018: R1 700 – R2 200 per night (1 – 4 guests)
From 1 October 2018: R1 850 – R2 400 per night (1 – 4 guests)
Contact 023 625 1780, tanagra@tanagra-wines.co.za
Location Tanagra Private Cellar & Guest Farm, Vrolikheid, Robertson Road (via N1 and R60)

PROTEA FARM

Where Montagu
Distance from CT 2.5 hours
A mere 30km from the heart of Montagu, in the Koo Valley, lies Protea Farm offering guest solitude in one of four private cottages. The valley – famous for producing pears and apples – is high up and receives a generous snow cover in winter. Guests can relax, warm and cosy, and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Although terrible wildfires in March burnt much of the mountain, forest and surrounding valley, the area is still rich in beauty.
Cosy cred Each of the self-catering cottages (three are wooden cabins, and one Cape Dutch cottage) have an open-plan kitchen and living area, with an indoor fireplace (extra wood can be supplied at a fee). In winter, the icy climes and snow create a tapestry of proteas and wildflowers on the mountain.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Tractor rides, followed by a traditional potjiekos lunch
• Hiking and mountain-bike trails
• Swimming in the nearby lakes

Cost Pinetree: R700 – R940 per night (sleeps up to two adults and two children)
Ou Opstal: R800 – R1 120 per night (sleeps 2 adults and 1 – 2 children)
Panorama: R1 200 – R2 160 per night (sleeps 5 – 13 people)
Waterblommetjie: R1 400 – R1 880 per night (sleeps 4 – 6 adults or four adults and four children)
Contact 023 614 3012, info@proteafarm.co.za
Location Koo Valley (via N1)

THE RIVERSTONE HOUSE

Where Wolseley
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Situated on a working farm with lush green grass at every turn and the Breede River below, The Riverstone House is the perfect family getaway, with its two double and two twin bedrooms. Here, it’s possible to enjoy all the modern creature comforts (washing machine, dryer, dishwasher etc), and also embrace the great outdoors – be it on foot, horseback or a mountain bike. In summer dips in the Breede River or the farm dam – with the kids and pooches in tow – are obligatory, while in winter, fireside board games in the lounge, fuelled by hot chocolate and rusks, are the stuff memorable weekends are made of.
Cosy cred The indoor fireplaces, particularly the wood-burning stove in the lounge, keeps the winter chill at bay.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Explore the Ceres Valley on the Ceres Railway
• Horse-riding
• Wine-tasting at nearby estates
• Mountain-biking
• Fruit-picking (depends on season)

Good to know Riverstone House is pet-friendly.
Contact 083 499 1524, book@theriverstonehouse.co.za
Cost R1 980 for 2 adults
R385 per additional adult
R150 per child (7 – 12 years)
Minimum of two nights stay
Bookings Check availability and book online
Location Palmiet Vlei Farm, Wolseley, Cape Winelands, Western Cape

STANFORD VALLEY GUEST FARM

Where Stanford
Distance from CT 2 hours
All the tranquil beauty of the Overberg is on display at this idyllic farm, nestled in the Klein River valley, and surrounded by rolling green meadows watered by natural mountain springs. The cosy cottages, warmed by wood-burning fireplaces, are imbued with pared-down rustic charm, and the acclaimed Manor House restaurant offers hearty country-style meals prepared by the talented team of head chef Jonathan Davies.
Cosy cred All of the cottages have comfortable bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and a stoep with beautiful views of the mountains or meadows. All are equipped with tea- and coffee-making facilities (complete with home-baked rusks!) as well as mini-bar fridges – and the wood-burning fireplaces (with unlimited firewood) ensures you’ll want to extend your cosy stay.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• 440-hectare farm
• Walking trails in the surrounding fynbos
• Swimming in the dam
• Hiking and mountain-biking trails
• Canoe trips and sunset cruises on the Klein River
• Klein River Cheese Factory
• Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary
• Wine-tasting at Raka Winery
• Whale-watching in Hermanus.

Cost Fynbos & Sagewood (sleeps 2): R1 050 per night
Milkwood & Erica (sleeps 2): R1 150 per night
Protea, Stables, Pincushion/Bluebell (sleeps 5): R2 000 per night
Note All cottages have the option of adding an extra single bed for R225.
Contact 072 198 0862, info@stanfordvalley.co.za, stanfordvalley.co.za
Bookings Check availability and book online
Location R326, 10km from Stanford towards the N2

MOUNT CEDER

Where Cederberg Conservancy
Distance from CT 3 hours
Set on the dramatic slopes of the Cederberg Mountain, Mount Ceder is about as secluded as they come. Each of the eight houses and three cottages (which are spaced roughly 30 metres apart) is fitted with an indoor fireplace and an outside braai area. The surrounding landscape – famed for its brilliant sunsets, wild beauty and red sandstone rock formations – is inescapable, and nature lovers will relish daily walks to the nearby river, or up the mountain to explore all that’s on offer.
Cosy cred A fireplace in each house, and an outdoor braai for belly-warming meals every night.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Hiking and mountain-biking routes
• Swimming and canoe-ing in the Breede River
• Walking to the waterfall
• Discovering historic rock-art
• Harvesting your own olives (depending on season)

Contact  023 317 0848, 023 317 0113, 023 004 0848, info@mountceder.co.za (general), mountceder@lando.co.za (reservations)
Cost R850 – R4 420 per night
Minimum of two nights stay over weekends, long weekends and school holidays
Bookings Check availability and book online
Location Grootrivier Farm, Cederberg Conservancy

EAGLE’S NEST HOUSE

Red Wing Starling

Where McGregor
Distance from CT 2.5 hours
Nestled in the mountains between Greyton and McGregor, it doesn’t get more secluded than this. Intended as an overnight stop for those traversing the popular Boesmanskloof Trail (you can access it without doing the trail), the double-storey stone house provides comfortable (and warm) lodgings for travellers weary from a hard day’s hiking.
Cosy cred The interior braai will keep you warm on cold winter nights, as you huddle around the 12-seater dining table trading war stories.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Boesmanskloof Hiking Trail
• Swimming in the natural rock pools
• Mountain-biking
• 4×4 route to Waterkloof
• Villages of Greyton and McGregor
• Greyton Local Nature Reserve

Contact 082 612 4623 (Bernado); 072 514 4209 (Sandra), info@boesmanskloofmcgregor.com
Cost R400 per person sharing (sleeps up to 10 guests)
Please note

• A minimum of 6 people for 2 nights is required for the booking.
• Availability is limited, with the accommodation already being booked out for much of 2018.

Location Outside McGregor (via N1 and R60)

ARUM LILY COTTAGE AND LOG CABINS

Where Wolseley
Distance from CT 1.5 – 2 hours
Beside a tranquil dam, amid the orchards of a working fruit farm, these five rustic log cabins are imbued with warm and homely interiors, and outdoor decks that peer out over the water. There’s also a cottage, ideal for family getaways.
Cosy cred The cabins have wooden decks with braai facilities and hot tubs, where you can relax and enjoy the sounds of the water. They also have indoor fireplaces, and electric blankets are provided during the winter months.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Canoeing on the farm dam
• Arum Lily Venue is ideal for private functions (includes tables, benches and a braai area)
• Nearby towns of Wolseley and Ceres
• Nature reserves
• Ceres Zipslide adventures

Contact 082 923 6430, info@arumlilycottage.co.za
Cost Log Cabins: R1 600 (2 adults); R2 400 (4 adults); R3 200 (6 adults)
Location R46 between Tulbagh and Ceres

DRAYTON FARM

My Leisure Group

Where Caledon
Distance from CT 1.5 hours
Located just outside Caledon, this farm dates back to the 1700s when it was a stop along the old wagon route, and holds all the charm a quaint slice of history should. With only two accommodation units on the entire property, which itself is situated far from town crowds, this stay is one of true peaceful seclusion where your only neighbours are the nearby mountains, and the only sounds you’ll hear are from the chirping birds and gurgling stream that flows past your cottage. Both of the cottages are fully equipped for the whole family, and guests can choose to stay in either Piet-my-Vrou Cottage (a classic farmhouse that hosts up to six), or in Piet-se-Kinders – two beautifully-converted shipping containers with four double rooms and a coffee station with two showers and toilets (not en-suite), and a fully-equipped kitchen. It’s a perfect fit for a family holiday away from it all.
Cosy cred Indoor fireplace, outdoor spot for fires and braais, fully clad beds with warm bedding, indoor lounge and dining area, and a sheltered verandah.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Nature walks trail to waterfall
• Bird-watching at the dam and stream
• Mountain-biking trail
• Wine-tasting in nearby Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
• Golf, hot springs and spa treatments at the nearby Caledon Spa or Arabella Hotel

Contact 082 225 0388, reneisth@gmail.com
Cost From R600 – R1300 per night
Bookings Check availability and book online
Location Drayton Farm, Caledon, Overberg, Western Cape

KAGGA KAMMA NATURE RESERVE

Where Cederberg
Distance from CT 3.5 – 4 hours
Almost four hours outside the hustle and bustle of Cape Town city, and surrounded by the stark wilderness of the Cederberg, Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve offers unique accommodation and breathtaking views of unspoilt nature and the night sky. It’s the sort of place where unforgettable memories are made.
There are 10 man-made cave suites that blend seamlessly into the natural sandstone formations they are built around. Each has a terrace and is equipped with a double bed and en-suite bathroom. The five thatched huts are modelled after the dwellings of the San clans, who inhabited the area centuries ago. Each one is fitted with a large bed and en-suite bathroom. Both accommodation types include air conditioning, and coffee and tea making facilities.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Restaurant, bar, swimming pool and spa on the reserve
• Hiking, mountain-biking and Jeep trails in the surrounding nature reserve
• Nature drives
• Sundowner tours
• Quad-biking
• Stargazing
• Reptile educational talks presented by qualified snake handlers
• Tours of ancient rock art sites, with paintings dating back 6 000 years

Cost Huts: R2 620 – R3 770 per person sharing (depending on season)
Standard Cave: R2 620 – R3 770 per person sharing (depending on season)
Premium Cave: R2 910 – R4 140 per person sharing (depending on season)
Honeymoon Cave: R3 070 – R4 360 per person sharing (depending on season)
Contact 021 872 4343, info@kaggakamma.co.za
Bookings Check availability and book online
Location  R303, Koue Bokkeveld (via N7)

CHAMONIX

Where Franschhoek
Distance from CT 1 hour
Enclosed by the majestic mountains of the Franschhoek Valley, this blissful retreat is a wine and game farm, with sprawling vineyards, a lake, and a diversity of wildlife. Accommodation options include lakeside lodges, secluded cottages at the foot of the mountains and lodges on the game farm – where zebra and springbok graze just a few metres from your patio.
Cosy cred Lynx Cottage and Rouge Cottage are spacious, self-catering cottages equipped with indoor fireplaces, outdoor braai facilities and DStv. They offer solitude along with splendid views of the mountains and vineyards. There’s also the romantic Waterfall Lodge, which as the name suggests, is situated beside a waterfall that spills into a tranquil rock pool.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Game drives
• Wine-tasting
• Racine restaurant, overseen by renowned South African chef Reuben Riffel
• Franschhoek Valley
• Restaurants and stores in Franschhoek Village

Contact 021 876 8400, guests@chamonix.co.za
Cost Rouge Cottage (sleeps 4): R1 500 – R2 000 per night (depending on season)
Lynx Cottage (sleeps 7): R2 250 – R3 000 per night (depending on season)
Waterfall Lodge (sleeps 4): R1 875 – R2 500 per night (depending on season)
Game Farm Accommodation: R1 575 – R3 500 per night (depending on season and accommodation type)
Location Uitkyk Street (via N1 and R45)

THE CLIFFHOUSE

Where Atlantic Seaboard
Distance from CT 40 minutes
The villa, featured in the Phaidon World Atlas of Architecture, has three bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, a private outdoor shower, a kitchen with self-catering facilities, an open-plan dining room and living room with a fireplace, wi-fi, and a patio with views of the mountain and Atlantic coastline stretching out in both directions.
Cosy cred It may only be a 40-minute drive from Cape Town, but this house on the edge of the ocean may as well be on the edge of the known world. It sure feels like it, when you’re sitting on the balcony overlooking stormy seas in winter, or watching the whales that occasionally visit the bay. The fireplace in the living room enhances the cosiness factor.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Table Mountain National Park
• Cape Point
• Constantia Winelands
• The beaches of Fish Hoek and Simon’s Town

Cost R3 050 per night (sleeps 6 people)
Contact 082 829 3705, matchboxology@gmail.com
Location 77 Old Camp’s Road, Misty Cliffs

COTTAGE IN THE KLOOF

Where Robertson
Distance from CT 2 hours
If seclusion is what you’re after, you’ll have it in spades at this remote cottage in the mountains. It’s solar-powered, has a gas geyser, and there’s minimal cellphone reception, making it the perfect place to hole up and wait out the coming apocalypse. The farm is home to wildebeest, red hartebees, gemsbok and springbok, enjoying the peace and quiet of country life.
Good to know A second cottage has recently been added, spaced far from the original one so as to ensure maximum privacy.
Cosy cred There’s a wood-fired Jacuzzi, where you can relax and gaze up at the star-filled sky, with nothing but the sound of surrounding wildlife to disturb your solitude. Braai facilities and firewood are provided.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Game-spotting on the farm
• The Saggy Stone Brewery and Restaurant is open every weekend for craft beer and hearty grub
• The Kolgans River Boat Restaurant is around 20 minutes drive away
• Wine-tasting tours in the Robertson Wine Valley
• Olive-tasting experiences at Willowcreek and Marbrin Olive Farm
• Two-hour walking trail from Penhill to Saggy Stone
• Mountain-biking in the Rooiberg Breede River Conservancy

Cost R1 000 per night on weekdays
R1 250 per night on Fridays & Saturdays
Sleeps up to 4 people (no children allowed)
Contact 083 453 3526, info@saggystone.co.za
Location near Saggy Stone, Amandalia Farm, Agtervinkrivier (via N1)

KLIPHUIS

Where Greater Karoo
Distance from CT 8 hours
Bathed in the serene silence of the Karoo, this reed-roofed cottage sleeps eight in four bedrooms, making it ideal for a family getaway. It sits within the Sneeuberg Nature Reserve, which is 40 kilometers away from the nearest town, so good luck to anyone seeking to disrupt your solitude. Despite the remote location, wi-fi is available (though no TV), and there is two-way radio communication.
Cosy cred The living area has a large fireplace and wood-burning stove, and there’s a dover stove in the kitchen. The interiors lend the cottage a rustic charm, while the outdoor area, with its large terrace, braai area and ample seating, is perfect for sitting and gazing out upon the famous Karoo night sky.
Good to know Pets are allowed (except for hunting dogs).
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Private swimming pool
• 14 500 hectare nature reserve
• 4 x 4 driving, mountain-biking, hiking and horseback-riding trails
• Picnic areas (picnic baskets and sundowner snacks can be arranged from the Gordonville kitchen)
• Fishing in the reserve dam

Contact 087 160 0596 / 076 811 3418, reservations@sneeuberg.com
Cost R5 720 – R6 545 per night (depending on season)
Location Near Nieu-Bethesda, via N1 and R61

ELANDSKLOOF FARM COTTAGES

Where Greyton
Distance from CT 2 hours
Like something out of an Enid Blyton novel, the rolling green meadows and rivers of Elandskloof are the picture of peaceful farm life. Go for a paddle in the stream or a walk in the fields while taking in the views of the Riviersonderend Mountain Range and valley, as herds of cows saunter by.
Cosy cred Each of the self-catering cottages has a lounge with a wood-fired stove (although in the Riverside cottages, the wood-fired stove is located in the open-plan kitchen area, and the upstairs section has gas heaters available on request).
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Swimming and canoeing on the river
• Hiking and mountain-biking trails
• Playground with a jungle gym and trampoline
• Games room with snooker and table tennis
• Pubs, restaurants and loads of fascinating junkshops in nearby Greyton

Cost Willow Cottage (sleeps 6 – 8): R3 150 per night
Thatched cottages (sleep 4 – 6): R1 650 – R 2 325 per night
Bachelor Thatched Cottage (sleeps 2): R975 per night
Riverside Upstairs (sleeps 2): R950 per night
Riverside Downstairs (sleeps 4 – 6): R1 775 per night
Riverside Upstairs and Downstairs combined (sleeps 6 – 8): R2 575 per night
Contact 076 334 5845  (Natasha), info@elandsklooffarmcottages.co.za
Location Helderstroom (via N2 and R43)

SYNERGY TREEHOUSE

Perfect Hideaways

Where Scarborough
Distance from CT 1 hour
This state-of-the-art luxury treehouse boasts immaculate design and unfettered ocean views. The wooden walkways that connect various parts of the house bring to mind Tolkien-esque treetop villages, especially in the evening when fairy lights illuminate the tree branches. The lounge and bedrooms are encased in sliding glass, blurring the boundaries between indoors and out. With only two bedrooms, the space is romantic and intimate, with easy access to the peaceful seaside village of Scarborough.
Cosy cred Two wood-burning fireplaces enhance the romance. The treehouse is well kitted out with a fully equipped kitchen (including coffee making facilities), DStv, wi-fi and a braai area.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• Plunge pool
• Scarborough Beach
• Hiking trails
• Massages and yoga on the deck (by arrangement)
• Cape Point Vineyards
• Noordhoek Farm Village and The Foodbarn
• Cape Point Nature Reserve
• Penguin colony at Boulders Beach

Contact 021 790 0972 (Perfect Hideaways), Contact through their website
Cost R3 500 – R9 350 per night (depending on season)
Bookings stay@perfecthideaways.co.za
Or check availability and book online
Location 90 Mountain Rise

WELTEVREDE FIG & GUEST FARM

Where Great Karoo
Distance from CT 4.5 hours
This farm has cultivated some of the best fruit in the land for six generations, and it’s clear little has changed since its founding in the 1800s. Quiet Karoo nights give guests a taste of life on the frontier during the 19th century.
Cosy cred The lack of electricity grants the guesthouses an old-world charm, but there are paraffin lamps, a gas stove, gas fridge and geysers, as well as firewood and braai facilities.
Onsite and nearby attractions

• The village of Prince Albert, where you can see the grave of Boer Rebel Johannes Klue, and the bridge that inspired Kipling’s poem Bridge Guard in the Karoo
• Guided hikes into the Swartberg Mountains can be arranged
• Food market in the village every Saturday

Cost Klein de Hoek (sleeps 2 adults and 3 children): R300 for first two persons, R100 per additional person
De Hoek (sleeps 6): R400 per person, R1 600 minimum rate
Vredenhof (sleeps 4): R1 600 per night
Fonteinskop (sleeps 2): R1 600 per night
Contact 023 541 1229, weltevrede@figfarm.co.za
Location 30km outside Prince Albert (via N1 and Prince Albert Road)

Researched by Matthew Flax, Alicia Chamaillé and Kent Cloete

Originally published on – insideguide.co.za