One of the perks of city living is that you can venture out when the hustle and bustle becomes overwhelming. Whether it’s a safari game drive, discovering natural rock pools in summer or a romantic retreat, there are plenty of gems to explore. Those wanting a bit of luxury amidst nature can visit these glamping places and eco retreats in the Western Cape.

AfriCamps at Karoo 1, Hex Valley

With multiple locations dotted throughout the country, AfriCamps ensures some of the best glamping experiences. Their Karoo 1 camp base, situated near the Hex Valley River, is ideal for couples looking for a romantic yet casual vacation. Breakfast and braai baskets can be arranged by the staff upon request. Plunge in the natural rock pools after an eventful day of activities, or soak in the hot tub after exploring hiking trails and nearby attractions.

Estimated cost: from R 2590 per night for 2 adults
Amenities: outdoor wood-fired hot tub, two bedrooms, indoor fireplace, shower, braai facilities, full kitchen, patio, balcony, plunge pool, WiFi.
Good to know: pets welcome; during loadshedding, battery power backups enable lighting and warm water – wall plugs are not operational.
Activities & attractions: natural rock pool, hiking trail, mountain biking, boma, swimming pool, tractor rides, restaurant, bar, on-site shop, and more.
Location: Karoo1 Hotel Village, N1, De Doorns, Touws River
Contact: Email | 021 300 5694

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Camp Canoe

With plenty of scenic routes and verdant hills in the Cape, adventurers don’t have to travel far for a peaceful retreat. Situated in Franschhoek, on the foothills of the Simonsberg mountains, lies Camp Canoe – a glamping site worth experiencing. Their luxury tents are fully equipped with self-catering kitchens and everything needed for a comfortable stay. The site has activities galore; rent canoes or swim at the dam for an epic afternoon. Couples can order picnic baskets, or enjoy wine-tasting sessions at Boschendal Wine Estate. Get to know the close-knit community and visit the Friday night market to haul artisanal goods.

Estimated cost: from R 2800 (min. 2 adults)
Amenities: 1 king-size bed or 2 single beds with luxury linen; day bed, towels, fireplace, private hot tub, Weber braai, 4 complimentary bags of wood, wooden deck with net hammock, fully equipped self-catering kitchen, shower, daily cleaning service, free WiFi.
Good to know: children are allowed, provided the staff are notified. Children older than 2 years are charged a fee of R 200 per child, per night.
Activities: Mountain biking, hiking, guided horseback riding, farm and vineyard tours, stargazing, dam swimming, wine tasting, Friday night markets; eat at The Deli, The Werf Restaurant or order picnic baskets and food baskets from Boschendal.
Location: Boschendal Estate, Pniel St, Groot, Franschhoek
Contact: Email | 066120 1717

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Cherry Glamping, Dennebos Camp

Adventurers will love Cherry Glamping’s Dennebos Camp, it’s the ideal getaway for a large group of friends, or special get-togethers like family reunions. Take in majestic views of the Elgin Valley during the day, and gather around the boma under the night sky. Couples looking for a romantic escape can book their Koraal Huisie accommodation, which comes with a hot tub, fireplace and mountain views.

Estimated cost: from R 2650 per night (2 guests per tent)
Amenities: twin beds; cotton linen, towels and extra blankets provided, luggage rack, bed-end and bedside tables; 3 shared bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen.
Good to know: Only group bookings are accepted; they can accommodate groups of 50-150 people; they have ample lawn space to pitch extra tents.
Activities and attractions: natural swimming pools, sundowner area, boma seating, communal lounge with a 24-seater table and cosy fireplace.
Location: N2, Groenrug Estate, Elgin
Contact: Email | 082 788 9837

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Gondwana Tented Eco Camp

Image credit: SafariNow

Journey along the West Coast to Gondwana Game Reserve in Mossel Bay. Their luxury Tented Eco Camps are ideal for inmate getaways. Enjoy the beautiful Fynbos biodiversity and wildlife on safari game drives; parents will appreciate their junior ranger programmes, which will keep kiddies entertained. The full board package includes three daily meals prepared by their talented restaurant staff, as well as morning and afternoon game drives. Couples can book one of their tented bush spa experiences for a relaxing vacation.

Estimated cost: from R 9700 per night, per guest (max. 2 adults; Tented Eco Camp)
Amenities: cleaning service, electric blanket, shower.
Good to know: conservation fees are required to maintain the area | *Children 0–6 years of age stay free of charge when sharing with two full-paying adults.
Estimated cost: game drives, junior ranger programme, tented bush spa, Fynbos experience; other activities in the area include sand boarding, ski boating, deep sea fishing, golfing, ziplining and more adventure experiences within 30 kms of the camp.
Location: R327 Heuningklip Farm, Herbertsdale
Contact: Email | 021 555 0807

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Huizen Living, Luxury Verloren Cabin

Huizen Living primarily manufactures modular, eco-friendly homes in nature ‘on the property of your choice’. Their sleek architectural designs and modern interiors blend seamlessly into nature’s surroundings. While they are available for contracting, some of the homeowners often rent out their premises. One of their homes located between Montagu and the Touws River, is available to rent. The open-plan living area contains a fully equipped kitchen with state-of-the-art home appliances – ideal if you want a convenient and stylish retreat in the wilderness. Relax in the eco hot tub, or soak up the sun on the wooden deck. Get lost in nature, or go off the grid while being online at Luxury Verloren Cabin.

Estimated cost: from R 3000 per night (max. 2 adults)
Amenities: sitting area, fireplace, dining table, mountain view, separate tub and shower, coffee/tea facilities, full kitchen, patio, terrace, outdoor furniture, hot tub, braai facilities.
Good to know: The open-plan living area has a fully equipped kitchen with a Smeg gas stove & coffee machine, fridge-freezer, and air fryer; WiFi is available.
Activities: hiking, hot tub.
Location: Breede River district between Montagu & Touws River
Contact: Email | 082 424 7045

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Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve, Cave Suite

Hide out in nature at Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve, situated in the awe-inspiring Cederberg mountains. Their Cave Suites offer the ideal retreat for couples and newlyweds. Take a dip in their natural rock pools, indulge in unique experiences like sundowner tours and quad bike adventures; couples can even book a night under the stars with their Open Air Suites. The surrounding area offers fantastic hiking trails, and original Khoisan rock art worth exploring.

Estimated cost: from R 1540 per couple per night
Amenities: outdoor shower, slipper star bath, natural rock pool, boma braai area.
Good to know: no children allowed
Activities: nature drives, sundowner tours, rock art tours, quad biking, stargazing.
Location: R303, Koue Bokkeveld, Cederberg
Contact: Email | 021 872 4343

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Rocklands Eco Retreat, The Grasslang

Image source: SA Venues

Nestled between the Cederberg mountains lies Rocklands Eco Retreat, an oasis for couples seeking stillness. The shipping container units have been redesigned to house self-catering kitchens, private bathrooms, indoor and outdoor seating areas, and dining rooms where couples can enjoy romantic dates. Indulge in a glass of wine and sit beside the fire by the braai area. Venture out and explore the many attraction sites, or sleep in and roll the bed out onto the patio to take in the striking views.

Estimated cost: from R 2050 per night (min. 2-night stay; max. 2 adults; no kids allowed)
Amenities: moveable bed, braai area, kitchenette, outside deck, patio, outdoor shower; free Wi-Fi, bathroom towels, bed linen and toiletries supplied.
Good to know: 150m uphill walk to cabin from the parking lot; the kitchenette is semi-equipped (fresh herbs are also supplied).
Activities & attractions: Cederberg Private Cellar, Cape Flower Route, Clanwilliam Museum, Pakhuisberg Day Walk, Olifants River (freshwater fishing).
Location: Rocklands Eco Retreat, Off R364, Clanwilliam
Contact: Email | 061 313 1487

rocklandsecoretreat.com

Southern Yurts

Located in the Diepkloof Nature Reserve, Southern Yurts is the ideal escape for wanderers. Their secluded yurts offer privacy and incredible mountain views. Enjoy sundowners in the private hot tub, and bask in the beautiful surroundings and company of your partner by the braai area on the patio. Explore the hiking trails with your pet (allowed upon arrangement), and discover newfound hobbies like birdwatching and more.

Estimated cost: from R 1750 per night (sleeping two) | High season: from R 2050 per night
Amenities: private wood-fired hot tub, self-catering kitchen and basic supplies, indoor fireplace, bedding, towels, blankets; hot water bottles supplied on cooler evenings.
Good to know: small children (<2 years) and pets welcome (small additional fee)
Activities: hiking, bird watching (bird books and binoculars provided), kayaking, fishing (catch and release); wine tasting, picnicking, zip lining, horse-riding, and farmer’s market available within driving distance of the base camp.
Location: 113/7 Van der Stel Pass Botrivier, Cape Town
Contact: Email | 0760607424 (WhatsApp only)

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Trekos Glamping

Image source: booking.com

Trekos Glamping offers a unique glamping experience for the whole family. Their stylishly decorated caravans boast stunning interiors, yet have a cosy atmosphere. Enjoy a morning coffee while taking in sea views, or cosy up to a book. Occupy the private pool on hot summer afternoons, or explore the area during the day. A fantastic retreat for a group of friends or family members, even fur babies are welcome.

Estimated cost: from R 200 per night (sleeps 6)
Amenities: 2 caravans and 2 bathrooms, braai area, secure parking, bath and shower.
Good to know: Pets are allowed upon request.
Activities & attractions: private pool, board games, book collection, sea views.
Location: 15 Isabel Street Nieuwe Rust, Trekoskraal Rd, Jacobs Bay, Saldanha Bay
Contact: Email | 072 599 5663

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Wolwehoek Private Reserve, Leopard’s Kloof Luxury Camp

Tucked away in Montagu, this private reserve has everything you need for a peaceful and restorative break. The gorgeously decorated interiors and vast views are the epitome of luxury camping. Unique rock formations make it a popular spot for experienced mountain climbers; bird watchers will appreciate the many bird species and binoculars available in each cabin. Because of the wildlife and rocky terrain, pets are not allowed; visitors will also need a 4×4/SUV vehicle to access the campsite. Nonetheless, Leopard’s Kloof Luxury Camp provides the ideal glamping experience for nomadic spirits.

Estimated cost: from R 3000 per night (2 adults); children over 12yo allowed
Amenities: king-sized bed, fully equipped kitchen, wood-fired hot tub/pool, pizza oven, braai area, bath, outdoor shower, hammock, solar energy; utensils and firewood are provided.
Good to know: complete privacy for 4km; 4×4 access only.
Activities: hiking, rock climbing, bird watching, mountain biking.
Location: farm 105, Wolwehoek Keisie Valley, Montagu
Contact: Email | 079 159 6401

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