The Western Cape’s most hidden gems
There are a generous number of hidden gems dotted all around the Western Cape. Some so remote you can only get there via canoe, others with views so enchanting it’ll leave you speechless. Make sure to put these three destinations on your bucket list.
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Kogelberg Nature Reserve, Kleinmond
A river runs through it, is the best way to describe this diverse and exceptional nature reserve. Kogelberg Nature Reserve has earned the reputation of having the richest quality fynbos in the Cape Floral Kingdom due to the minimal interference by humans.
There are two types of accommodation on the reserve. Both have been structurally created to fit right into their surroundings, with very little interference to the wilderness surrounding it.
The Mbali collection has 8 glass-front cabins with views of the cascading Palmiet River. There are both 2-sleeper cabins and 6-sleeper cabins within the collection.
Oudebosch Eco Cabins have 6 glass-front eco-cabins with extraordinary views of the mountains and fynbos. These timber cabins sleep four guests and even boast a honeymoon suite.
At an additional cost you can request to book white water kayaking or tubing on the Palmiet River. It is an invigorating adventure that you don’t want to miss out on. The river carries you effortlessly along its path, tossing you around a little for good measure.
Keurbooms River Nature Reserve, Plettenberg Bay
This reserve allows nature-lovers a one-of-a-kind experience and is probably one of the region’s most favoured and unique spots. With indigenous forest, coastal fynbos and an estuary dune field – the only way to make your way to this accommodation is via a 7km canoe paddle up the creek. So pack light and make sure you’re ready for an outdoor adventure of a lifetime.
Surrounded by river birds, and even a leopard in the vicinity that has been spotted regularly, it is a twitcher’s paradise.
Whiskey Creek Cabin is a wooden lodge that sleeps 10 people. It features an open-air kitchen and an expansive deck where you can enjoy a leisurely braai while immersing yourself in the pure wilderness around you. Fresh rain water is provided but guests have to provide their own linen and amenities.
It is reserved for those who live and love the outdoors. You’re guaranteed to make memories you can pass on to future generations.
Mvubu Bush Lodge, Goukamma Nature Reserve
Tucked snuggly against within the reeds along the shoreline of Groenvlei Lake, Mvubu Bush Lodge at Goukamma Nature Reserve has views that will leave you mesmerised. On a still day, the water reflects the mountains so precisely, you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s a painted-picture.
The wooden cabin sits above the water’s edge and is surrounded by an unusual milkwood forest. The interior is comfortable and has the luxuries of en-suite bathrooms in both bedrooms. The lodge sleeps four guests generously. But the outside deck is where you can expect to spend most of your time, or canoeing on the water – watching ducks slide across smoothly and birds fly in flocks.