Many people decide to be savvy and save for their December holidays during the winter months which, unfortunately for most, means cutting back on trips and other often costly outings, but letting your travels take a backseat is no way to live! TravelGround has rounded up some budget-friendly places all over South Africa where you can enjoy all the comforts of home, and even a few luxuries, that ensure a memorable breakaway without breaking the bank. You really can have your cake and eat it too!
Beach Walk
Western Cape
We’re starting off with nothing other than a self-catering home in the heart of Pearly Beach. Beach Walk boasts stunning sea views from its very own covered wooden deck. If there was ever a spot where you could relax and recharge to your heart’s content, this is it! An indoor braai ensures winter’s chills won’t stop you from enjoying a truly South African weekend in front of the fire. As if all of this isn’t already enough to make you plan a trip, the house is also only a short walk away from a white sandy beach.
Lank-gewag Cottages
Western Cape
Come and enjoy a stay at Lank-gewag Cottages on a working farm just a few kilometres from Montagu in the Western Cape. Sleep in a rustic cottage with its original thick clay walls and savour a little downtime in the hot tub while overlooking the surrounding farm and nectarine trees. Make the most of the day with the built-in braai on the patio and share a laugh with those who matter most — your four-legged friends who are also welcome here.
Scheepersfontein
Gauteng
Ditch the city for a little Dutch adventure at Scheepersfontein, a self-catering house with Dutch architecture in Pretoria East that is ideal for a family getaway with its tranquil surroundings. Outside, there is a braai area and outdoor seating where you can relax with a sundowner, as well as a large veranda with beautiful views of the horse farm. Pets are welcome by prior arrangement, so everyone will get to revel in the natural beauty and tranquillity of the area.
Bedford Manor
Gauteng
Bedford Manor offers accommodation in two apartments in Centurion, each with its own unique style and decor. One has a rustic boho style and boasts a balcony with views of the nature reserve while the other is a retro-vintage apartment and has a patio with views of the wetlands. This option is also wheelchair-accessible. Both offer access to a lap pool and there is a covered braai area with outdoor seating where a lovely evening by the crackling fire awaits. Various restaurants, shops, attractions and nightlife are all only a short drive away for those who are looking for a little more action.
Heron’s Haven
Mpumalanga
This beautifully restored cottage from the late 1800s offers a heavenly breakaway surrounded by nature on the wetland of the picturesque town of Wakkerstroom and boasts views of the mountains in the distance. Heron’s Haven has everything you need for a revitalising stay, such as a hammock, a coal stove to fend off the winter cold and braai facilities. You can also bring your furry friend to enjoy the fresh air of the countryside with you.
Groendraai River Cottages
Limpopo
For those seeking a memorable escape, however fleeting, Groendraai River Cottages in Vaalwater is just the right place and is ideal for those en route to Lephalale from Johannesburg. All three cottages have outdoor wood-fired hot tubs, private braai facilities and a large patio from where you can listen to the sounds of the Bushveld. If a challenge is what you seek, feel free to try your hand at catch-and-release fishing in the Mokolo and Sterkstroom Rivers or paddle in one of the kayaks available.
Milkwoodbend Farm Resort
Eastern Cape
If you can’t decide whether your next getaway should be on a farm or somewhere near the sea and the sand, choose not to choose and pick Milkwoodbend Farm Resort. This family-run seaside farm behind an indigenous forest in the Eastern Cape offers accommodation in various caravans for a unique self-catering experience. All the units have private braai facilities and the beach is only a 150-meter walk through the forest. The cherry on top? Pets are welcome!
Sperrgebiet Lodge
Northern Cape
Sperrgebiet Lodge is located only a few kilometres outside Springbok and offers self-catering accommodation in various units on a farm in the middle of the beautiful, rugged semi-desert of Namaqualand. Each unit boasts its own braai facilities and well-trained pets are also welcome. Birdwatchers will have a field day as there are 69 bird species to be spotted. Other outdoor activities in the area include hiking trails or golf at a nearby golf course. Take a step back and enjoy a restful stay surrounded by nature.
The Beaches
KwaZulu-Natal
For those always searching for the best spot by the sea, look no further than The Beaches perched along the beaches of Umtenweni. Book your stay in one of two tastefully furnished units with either a balcony or a patio boasting views of the garden and the sea. The shared swimming pool, braai facilities and generator leave little to be desired and to top it all off, the property is also close to local shops, restaurants and various attractions. What are you waiting for?
Otters Den Self-catering Cottages
KwaZulu-Natal
In the heart of the Midlands Meander in KwaZulu-Natal lies Otters Den Self-catering Cottages. This tranquil countryside stay has various cottages to choose from, each with a Jacuzzi, a Weber braai and a fireplace that makes it the ideal spot for a cosy winter getaway. The units also have views of the Lions River from their private decks — simply idyllic.
Von Eischwede’ Rust
Free State
Von Eischwede’ Rust offers accommodation in two self-catering units along the Vaal River just outside Bothaville. Here, you can enjoy the natural surroundings from the patio or braai under the night sky. Enjoy leisurely walks or picnics in the reserve where giraffes, zebras and Rooibok can be seen. This is where you’ll truly get to recharge your batteries and take a break from the daily grind.
Stonehaven Clarens
Free State
Stonehaven Clarens is located in the centre of Clarens and boasts views of Horeb Mountain and a portion of the golf course. Book one of the rooms in the main building or one of the log cabins, all with patios and braai facilities — a South African necessity. This stay is within walking distance of restaurants, art galleries and the Clarens Brewery. If you’re looking for adventure, activities such as walking, hiking, 4×4 trails and river rafting are all available in the area.
***
By now, you must be undoubtedly excited about the possibility of an unforgettable winter breakaway on a budget. There is no shortage of wonderful places to recharge and relax while cosying up to a fire. If you can’t decide whether your next getaway should be on a farm or somewhere near the sea and the sand, opt for both and book at Milkwoodbend Farm Resort.
Main image: Otters Den Self-catering Cottages
Related Blogs:
Egg-ceptional Easter Weekend Escapes Outside Cape Town
Affordable, Romantic Weekend Escapes
