Winter in the Western Cape is the perfect time to get away, snuggle up in a luxury log cabin, curl up by the fire and crack open a bottle of wine to beat the chill. Check out these six awesome breakaways:
KolKol Mountain Lodge
Botrivier, Cape Overberg
Known for its tranquillity and sweeping views of the Babilonstoren Mountains, KolKol's Mountain Lodge and Fynbos Pods are located on a lovely farm based on the Van der Stel Pass in Botrivier. Tuck yourself away in the well-equipped luxury log cabins and fire up the private wood-fired tub in which you are likely to spend the rest of your stay! With a glass of wine in hand, in a warm tub, you'll ask yourself why you didn’t do this earlier.
Oudebosch Eco Cabins
Kogelberg, Cape Overberg
It’s the quiet that you notice first. The tranquillity and peaceful solitude you experience when surrounded by nothing but mountains, lush green plants and clear, blue skies. No television, (very) limited wifi access and not a satellite dish in sight, the Oudebosch Eco Cabins at Kogelberg are ideal for those looking to get off the grid. With sweeping views of the valley, a variety of hiking trails to explore and a natural swimming pool a few metres from the accommodation, the cabins cater for up to four people, making them ideal for groups of friends and small families.
Kagga Kama Nature Reserve
Cederberg, Cape West Coast
It’s a bit of a drive if you’re coming from Cape Town – almost four hours – but it is well worth the effort! With 10 man-made cave suites to choose from, and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Cederberg, the Kagga Kama Nature Reserves offers something truly unique. The suites are modelled after the early dwellings of the San people and are all equipped with a large bed and en-suite bathroom. You can also take advantage of star-gazing, hiking, rock climbing and nature drives in the area.
Buffalo Valley Bush Lodges
Prince Albert, Cape Karoo
Ideally located in the valley of the beautiful Oukloof Mountains, the Bushman Valley Resort is the perfect winter getaway. Lying in the foothills of the Swartberg Pass and just a stone’s throw away from the picturesque Karoo town of Prince Albert, you can choose from lodge, cottages of log cabins at the resort and rejoice in the fact that there is no need for cellular phones, television of internet.
Lord Milner Hotel
Matjiesfontein, Cape Karoo
Consisting of a hotel, a railway station, and a collection of museums, Matjiesfontein holds a charm that speaks to a bygone era, and the old Lord Milner Hotel still welcomes plenty of feet through the door. The hotel offers romantic rooms combined with historic ambience, timeless hospitality and classic comfort. Take a bus tour of the main stretch – you won’t be gone longer than 10 minutes – explore the old museums, and sink your teeth into the Karoo lamb for dinner.
Skuur at Bosjes
Ceres, Cape Winelands
Between the folds of the Ceres mountains, you'll find a luxury estate and architectural oases. Bosjes, iconically known for its chapel design and impeccable gardens, hosts 5 beautiful suites and a swimming pool on a private annex of the estate. Constructed upon the footprint of the former barn, with living areas facing the mountain and views of the wilderness reserve, this is a perfect place to unwind, and enjoy the clear Winelands skies under its top-star rating.
