Garden Route & Klein Karoo
Fountain Shack
Perched on the outskirts of Plettenberg Bay, a six-hour journey from Cape Town, lies the untamed beauty of Robberg Nature Reserve. This World Heritage Site offers a rugged slice of paradise, just 8km from the lively hub of Plett yet worlds away in ambience. Accessible only by a two-hour hike, the rustic wooden Fountain Shack provides a back-to-basics escape, sleeping eight in bunk beds. Let the crashing waves below lull you to sleep under starlit skies. Solar power and a water tank sustain the cabin, while an Enviro Loo minimises environmental impact. Spend your days exploring pristine beaches and cliffs, and watching for marine life. Enjoy three circular hiking routes (from a 30-minute stroll to a four-hour hike); birdwatching (including the reserve’s “seagull nursery”); angling (surf and rock angling only, with a permit); or climb the majestic Witsand sand dune.
Teniqua Treetops
Teniqua Treetops redefines glamping with its elevated treetop suites. These spacious canvas, wood and glass abodes offer a secluded escape for nature lovers in the enchanting forests of Sedgefield, a five-hour drive from Cape Town. An eco-conscious ethos is woven into every aspect, from sustainably farmed wood construction to gas and solar power. Privacy is paramount, with suites spread out to ensure tranquillity. Explore forest trails, swim in the Karatara River and its rock pools, or unwind in the on-site swimming pool. With options ranging from couples’ retreats to family bonding time, Teniqua Treetops invites guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the forest, where the only company may be the occasional bird or playful monkey swinging by.
Reflections Eco-Reserve
In the heart of Wilderness, a serene four-and-a-half-hour drive along the Garden Route from Cape Town, Reflections Eco-Reserve offers a unique retreat in the breathtaking Garden Route National Park. Surrounded by the lush Rondevlei wetlands, this eco-conscious haven offers just four wooden chalets and two glamping options spread across a 42ha property. Privacy and tranquillity are guaranteed. Powered by wind turbines and solar energy, and constructed with natural materials, the accommodation’s eco cred is evident in every detail. The kitchens are fully equipped and guests can enjoy indoor fireplaces in the colder months, as well as wraparound decks with braai facilities. From birdwatching to small-game viewing and beach outings, there’s something for everyone.
