Getting away for a weekend and heading slightly off the beaten track to a quiet cottage makes me incredibly happy. And if you can add hiking, swimming and outdoor showers to the mix, that’s even better. Luckily there’s no shortage of fabulous getaways in the Western Cape and I’ve rounded up some favourites. All of these cottages and cabins are set in beautiful surroundings, either on farms or nature reserves which allows for disconnecting from the urban craziness and a chance to enjoy Mother Nature.

KOGELBERG NATURE RESERVE ECO CABINS 

Kogelberg Nature Reserve has an exceptional diversity and quality of fynbos and is considered the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom. So as you can imagine, staying in one of their Oudebosch eco cabins surrounded by all of this natural beauty is an absolute treat. There are only five cabins which helps keep it exclusive and peaceful. These self-catering cabins are all beautifully designed, built with wood and stone and totally in keeping with their surroundings. The interiors are modern, comfortable and inviting… quite a surprise to their more rustic exterior.

CABINE DU CAP 

Cabine du Cap is set on 175 hectares of private land in the Klein Karoo, just outside Montagu in the Poortjieskloof mountains. Completely off the grid with solar power to provides all your creature comforts such as a a Nespresso coffee machine, hair dryer, wi-fi, speaker, fridge, pressurised hot water and more. Beautifully decorated with an Out of Africa feel, amazing views plus a swimming pool, this is pure luxury!

TIERHOEK COTTAGES 

Nestled at the foot of the Langeberg mountains near Robertson and less then 2 hours from Cape Town, Tierhoek Cottages is a really magical spot. There are five self-catering cottages/houses and each one has its own swimming pool which is an absolute must in summer as the Robertson area is known to get very hot. Each cottage has a different feel and is totally private from the others.

COPIA CABINS 

Copia Luxury Eco Cabins is a unique getaway situated in the Overberg just ouside the small town of Botriver. Three stylish self-catering cabins are available each with a wood fired hot tub and uninterrupted views of the valley. Completely off the grid with solar power.

RIVERSTONE’S FAMTIN 

Enjoy luxurious accommodation in a converted container on a working farm just outside Wolseley. With a prime position on the farm dam, the views are of the best in the Valley. Contemporary finishes and an outdoor shower add to the appeal. 

SONDAGSKLOOF 

Sondagskloof Chalets are situated in the beautiful Sandies Glen Valley, just 20km from Stanford. Both cabins have their own fire pit outside for cooking and stargazing and wooden hammocks are strung between trees for afternoon snoozes.