There’s nothing quite like waking up to a beautiful view. So we’ve searched high and low (but especially high) to bring you the best bang-for-your-buck getaways with lofty vistas guaranteed.
1. Stone Mountain Lodge at Kleinrivier Mountain Escapes | Eastern Cape
Breathtaking views, a plunge pool, cosy fireplace and absolute solitude are what awaits at Stone Mountain Lodge. You can spend your days exploring the trails that lead you through picturesque gorges dotted with ancient cycads or swim in icy mountain pools before returning to relax on the luxurious couch in front of a roaring log fire. It’s mountain wilderness living at its best. Access to Stone Mountain Lodge is via a steep mountain road that requires a 4×4 with low range and diff lock. The road, rated a four, means part of the adventure is getting to the top. You can also hike to the top, so pack light!
2. Highlands Mountain Retreat, Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Clarens | Free State
The ideal getaway for visitors craving seclusion. The eight log cabins, tucked into the mountainside of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, offer unbelievable vistas of the surrounding Malutis. Situated at 2 200 m above sea level, the views seem to stretch as far as the eye can see. The peaceful setting has a certain charm in the winter, but the vistas are equally impressive in the summertime. This is where you go for ultimate secluded relaxation.
3. Panorama Cabin at Protea Farm, Montagu | Western Cape
Protea Farm is in the famous Koo Valley, in the heart of the scenic Route 62. They have four cottages on the property, but the Panorama Cottage has the best views by far. Large families will love this rustic style cottage with spectacular views of the Keisie and Koo valleys. There are also short hiking trails around the cabin, making it the perfect escape for those who want to experience views from every angle. In 1985, the Protea Farm started offering the now-famous Montagu Tractor Trips. Enjoy sightseeing up the Langeberg Mountain, ultimately reaching an altitude of 1 500 m above sea level. At the top, you can look down into the Robertson Valley while enjoying muscadel at the Arangieskop Hut. It seldom gets more spectacular than this.
4. Goatherder House, Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve | Ceres
The mission at Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve is conservation through utilisation, which gives more people the opportunity to experience the beauty of the farm. The reserve is on a fully working farm, Erfdeel, and guests can partake in tours to experience the day to day of farm living. They have multiple accommodation options but book the Goatherder house for ultimate seclusion and beautiful scenery. The house is more than 100 years old and has been restored to its original design, bar the installation of a hot water shower and flush toilet for guests’ convenience. Here you can indulge in various activities like hiking, abseiling, kloofing, ice climbing, fishing and cherry-picking.
5. Teniqua Treetops, Sedgefield | Garden Route
Who doesn’t want to sleep in a gorgeous treehouse? Teniqua Treetops is situated in 36 hectares of forest on the Garden Route. So if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-track holiday, then this is just the place for you. Onsite amenities include a licensed bar, a petting zoo, an art gallery, two forest trails, and a river walk giving guests access to the Karatara river and rock pools. The suites are built within the magnificent indigenous Knysna Forest and built in a gorge. The front of the suite is set on stilts ranging from two to six metres above ground, giving you breathtaking views of the scenic Karatara Gorge or the majestic Knysna Forest. Teniqua Treetops is a getaway best suited to nature lovers – those wanting something a little unique, quirky, and adventurous. You can never go wrong with the Garden Route.
Because every last inch of your bag matters, safeguarding your items should be first on your to-do list. To make things a tad bit easier for you, we’ve listed pin-worthy packing hacks guaranteed to work:
– Roll your clothing instead of folding them
– Cover your footwear with bags
– Pair at least 2 tops for every bottom
– Store your loose wires in a spare sunglasses case
– Store breakables in your socks
Plan on flying out? These packing hacks are for you.
Words by Mart-Marié du Toit
Photography: Courtesy Images
