Roaming rivers, sparkling lagoons, and winding canals make the Western Cape an ideal destination for water-lovers. Whether you enjoy a peaceful canoe down the river, a light lunch on the water’s edge, or a refreshing dip in a glistening lagoon, the Western Cape won’t disappoint. Here are some great places to stay while you’re here:
Tides River Lodge, Malgas
Tides River Lodge, situated on the banks of the Breede River, is the ideal holiday destination for those who enjoy the quiet solitude of the countryside. The lodge is ‘off the beaten track’, in a sheltered cove, and it has its own island.
The accommodation consists of three self-catering thatched villas, with beautiful African décor, and spectacular river views. The rooms all have queen-sized beds, each with their own en-suite bathrooms. A thatched riverside lapa is available for lunches and dinners, and has an open fire for chilly weather. Birding and nature enthusiasts will be in their element with the remarkable bird-watching and fishing opportunities available. For those who struggle to leave the city behind, there is DSTV, cell phone reception, and wireless internet. Read more
At Rest, Wilderness
At Rest Self-Catering Chalet offers a break away from everyday life in a relaxing natural environment. Situated on the Touw River, the chalet offers exciting birding opportunities and mountain trails.
The double-story wooden cabin has a beach feel, furnished with vibrant, modern décor. There are three colourfully-furnished bedrooms with DSTV – no need to bring your own smartcard. The rooms feature twin and queen-sized beds, and camping cots are available on request. The timber sun-deck has comfortable patio furniture and offers a spectacular view of the Wilderness National Park. Awake to birdsong in the mornings, and admire the view of the lake through your window. Read more
Bitou River Lodge, Plettenberg Bay
The Bitou River Lodge in Plettenberg Bay is the ideal water-side destination. Each room is comfortably furnished, with its own entrance, en-suite bathroom, and spectacular views of the garden and river.
Enjoy the smell of honeysuckle in the summer, wafting through the wide-open sliding doors, and make use of the large fireplaces in the guest lounge and breakfast room in the cold winter months. Patio chairs and portable braais are available, and can be used in the garden or beside the river. Guests have access to canoes, which are great for birding, and spotting the turtles and otters that frequent the area. Birds to be spotted in the area include the Blue Crane, Tiny Wax-bill, Knysna Touraco (Loerie) and the African Hoopoe. Read more
Mudlark River Front Lodge, Infanta
The Mudlark River Front Lodge, situated in Infanta, offers guests a tranquil environment to enjoy the natural surroundings – the winding river, majestic mountains, and extravagant fynbos.
Relax in one of the five uniquely furnished bedrooms which all have their own bathrooms and private decks overlooking the estuary. Guests can enjoy fresh meals from the sea and surrounding farms, as well as excellent birding opportunities, with over 204 bird species available around the lodge and along the quiet river bank. As the lodge is situated in the Cape Floral Kingdom, guests can expect to see many varieties of fynbos and flora here. For a leisurely day on the water, climb into one of the lodges dinghies or canoes, and enjoy the still waters while fishing, or taking a sunset cruise. Read more
Marina Martinique, Aston Bay
Situated on an island within Marina Martinique, Marina Martinique Bed and Breakfast is an exquisite water-front accommodation in Aston Bay, just off the famous surfing destination of Jeffrey’s Bay.
The Cape Caribbean style building, set between sea-water canals, houses five luxurious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, each with their own private balconies. A lounge and dining area opens onto a sunny wooden deck where you can enjoy a good book or watch the activity on the water. Enjoy boating, swimming and fishing in the waters just a step away from your room, or take a sunset cruise on the B&B’s own rubber duck. Guests are encouraged to bring their own canoes so that they can explore the waterways at their own leisure. Read more
Let us know your favourite spot in the Western Cape to enjoy a summer splash.
