Don’t stress if your boss isn’t a fan of giving you Fridays off. These getaways are close enough that you can leave mid-afternoon and light the braai before sunset. You’re welcome
Opstal Stay, Rawsonville, Western cape
Luxury interiors with a homey feelare what awaits you at Opstal Stay. These self-catering units are located on a working wine farm just an hour away from Cape Town, so you can really stretch your weekend to its limit. Families, couples and friends will enjoy the surrounding solitude of the vineyards, fynbos and mountains with views that will take your breath away. Summer is also the perfect time to pop open a bottle of bubbles and relax in the deck tub while waiting for the braai. There are two- and four-sleeper units, and a weekend spent here won’t break the bank. It doesn’t get better than this!
The Hilton Bush Lodge Hilton, Kwazulu-natal
The Hilton Bush Lodge is an idyllic escape from the daily grind. Overlooking the confluence of the Rietspruit and Umgeni rivers, as well as neighbouring Umgeni Valley Nature Reserve, you’ll be mesmerised by long grasses swaying in the gentle breeze, sightings of an antelope or two, picturesque vistas across the valley and continual bird- song. Driving from Durban will take you just over an hour, with beautiful KwaZulu-Natal scenery to keep you happy along the road. Their accommodation has a feel of understated elegance in spacious luxury suites. From sundowners on the deck to balmy evenings with the glow of a golden sunset, this tranquil setting will have you relaxing in no time.
Skilliepark, Dwarskersbos, Western cape
The apartment at Skilliepark offers a wealth of natural light and the sound of the sea throughout the open-plan, double- volume living area and kitchen. Enjoy brunch on the balcony or an afternoon braai watching the sun set over the ocean. The long white sandy beach is perfect for long walks, and bird lovers will find many birding sites. Escape to Skilliepark for a weekend that rejuvenates your soul.
The Boathouse Boskop Dam, North west
The Boathouse is situated on the water’s edge of Boskop dam, between Carletonville and Potchefstroom in the North West province. Once a family weekend cottage, it has been kitted out for self-catering adventurers who love clean water – it bubbles out of the earth a few kilometres away. You can also bet on exquisite sunsets, fishing and silence only broken by the peaceful sounds of nature. The outside dining area leads to a private deck with direct access to the water for swimming or fishing, and you can hire a canoe from the owners. If you don’t really feel like cooking, there’s a pizza spot within walking distance from The Boathouse.
The Premier Hotel Roodevalley, Gauteng
The Premier Hotel Roodevalley lies on the Pienaars River banks in Pretoria, surrounded by a nature reserve and a bird sanctuary. The hotel offers a relaxed bush setting within easy reach of Pretoria, Menlyn, Joburg and OR Tambo International Airport. So, if you’re Gauteng-based and you’d like to escape without the hassle of a long drive, Roodevalley is the perfect option. The rooms are tastefully decorated in a country-chic style, and families will love dining at their Country Kitchen restaurant.
Abalone Hotel & Villas Paternoster, Western cape
A short, scenic drive and the deep blue ocean on your doorstep makes Abalone Hotel & Villas the perfect escape from the city. Their two-bedroom Abalone Villas are all comfortably furnished, and the large glass doors that open up to the balcony offer vistas of the sea – the perfect place for friends and families to gather. In addition, Abalone Hotel & Villas is located on the hill, so it’s quiet enough to relax in peace yet central enough to explore Paternoster. But don’t just take our word for it; you have to experience the Abalone charm for yourself!
