Solitude rocks – and if you don’t get the chance to read your book, meditate or just be, we’ve got you covered. Enjoy these secluded hideaways.
Sibani Lodge, Gauteng
Sibani Lodge is an exclusive wilderness lodge nestled in the idyllic nature reserve of Mt Savannah at the Cradle of Humankind. Sibani offers guests the chance to get fully immersed in the South African bush experience (with a few added creature comforts)in their four fully equipped luxury tents. The newest addition to their winning glamping recipe is a KolKol wood-fired hot tub for each tent, so cool off in style during the hot summer days as you enjoy your wild surroundings, and be assured that your winter bath ritual will be toasty and warm under a starlit sky. It doesn’t get better than this!
087 012 5375 | sibanilodge.co.za
Glenogle Farm, Limpopo
If you’re into cosy country cottage vibes, The Stables at Glenogle farm is perfect for you – a luxury, double story, self-catering house with two bedrooms and one bathroom. The stylish space includes a lounge, a dining area and a well-equipped kitchen. Large double doors open out on both sides of the living room with a patio with a private garden on one side and the stable courtyard, where the farm horses, Abby, Silva and Rain Forest, reside on the other. Glenogle’s best-kept secret, The Loft, is a self-catering suite hidden in the Pine forest overlooking the dam. The elegant four-poster bed, high ceilings, French shutters, scented candles and roaring fireplace create the perfect ambience for couples who want to get away from it all.
083 259 8321 | glenogle.co.za
3. Frosty Peaks, Eastern Cape
This charming farmhouse in the Wartrail District is not the most accessible placeto get to, but you won’t ever want to leave once you’re there. The icy cold mornings warming up to beautifully crisp autumn days, sheep bleating in the nearby kraal and the large stoep overlooking the Barkly East mountains make for the perfect escape. Frosty Peaks is just the place if you like trekking along dirt roads and hiking up cattle paths. The house sleeps eight and has a large dining room for farm-style dinners.
083 578 573 | frostypeaks.co.za
4. The Edge Mountain Retreat
Eastern Cape
You can sleep on what feels like a cliff at the end of the world if you book the cliffside cottages at The Edge Mountain retreat. Escape to a stay like no other where you are surrounded by dramatic views and unspoiled Afromontane forest with fascinating swirling mists and cloud formations – all part of the pristine, natural environment. Here you can take a shower or bath on the precipice and escape your usual 9–5 worries. They also have an on-site restaurant, various other accommodation options and a labyrinth you are welcome to enjoy on your stay.
082 603 5246 | theedge-hogsback.co.za
5. Dream Lodge’s Gecko Cottage
North West
Gecko Cottage is the ultimate hideaway for those weary of city life. Nestled in between the acacia trees of Dream Lodge, you’ll be spoilt with magnificent views and nature sounds. The upper deck is the perfect spot for sunset dreaming and outside dining, and the 30 candles in the wall of the bedroom create a romantic atmosphere for your evenings.
082 620 6369 | dreamlodge.co.za
6. Be Human Middelwater Farm Hotel
Free State
If farm life is something you’ve always wanted to experience, you have to stop by Middelwater Farm, approximately 30 km outside of Bloemfontein. The Strydom’s envisioned a place where families could get together and simply ‘be human’. They have various options for accommodation, but the hotel wins our vote for a peaceful and stylish escape. In addition, you can visit their on-site deli to sample a curated selection of local meat and cheese, as well as their excellent wine selection.
082 262 3463 | be-human.co.za
Words by Mart-Marie du Toit
