Mountain Mist, Aurora, Western Cape on Budget-Getaways

Budget Getaways Review

Perched way above Aurora, at the top of Kapteinskop - which sits at the same height as Table Mountain - the alluringly named Mountain Mist has three equipped cottages.

On a clear day, the birds-eye vista is idyllic and the contrast between the rugged protea slopes of Kapteinskop and the wheat fields and distant ocean far below is enough to make anyone feel good about all things local.

The accommodation at Mountain Mist gets you right into the heart of nature, with the three rustic timber cabins, surrounded by fynbos and awesome views.

Eagles (sleeps 4), Sugarbird (2) and Falcons (4) are spaced adequately apart and vary slightly in size; common to all three are electricity, long shady stoeps facing infinity, cosy and tidy interiors, and personal touches.

Although the cabins are intentionally rustic, linen is provided, as are heaters, waterbottles and hairdryers for the Gauteng dolls - in winter, packing an extra down duvet or two wouldn't go amiss as it can get truly cold up on the mountain.

A separate bedroom and living area flank a neat bathroom equipped with shower and toilet, and the kitchenettes are tidy nooks with pretty crockery, microwaves, small fridges and two-plate stoves.

Outside, each cabin has a private braai area (bring own wood) built of stone. A short stroll down the slope leads to a communal rock pool where you will no doubt also want to wallow in summer.

If so inclined, there is more than enough to do at Mountain Mist, including long walks, mountain biking to Aurora and back, and birdwatching – the mountain is home to the rare Protea canary, otherwise known as LBJ (‘little brown job’).

However, judging by the level of weekend activity at Mountain Mist, most guests appear happy to split their time between the stoep, the plunge pool and the braai.

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Guest Reviews

"A beautiful place to completely switch off and relax! Don't forget to take a book, and an umbrella for shade at the refreshing mountain pool will come in very handy."

(visited Dec 2016)

"This is a fantastic spot for a quick weekend breakaway. The mountain was really misty the whole weekend, but when it cleared we had an absolutely magnificent view of the valley below. Such peacefulness and beauty. We had everything that we needed and the little heater in the cottage was a lifesaver. We will definitely be back in the warmer months so that we can better explore the areas surrounding the cabins."

(visited June 2015)

"Perfect getaway for nature lovers."

(visited May 2015)

"The views from Mountain Mist are just amazing and we have had a lovely time there with walks and just enjoying mother nature . Sugarbird is a cosy cottage, we enjoyed our stay and would definitely go back again in the near future."

(visited April 2015)

"'We farm peace and quiet' is what Anne told us on our arrival and we had that in abundance. Added to that is a spectacular view across to the coast, breathtaking sunsets and amazing bird life. Not too shabby for a weekend away within in easy distance from the city. The accommodation, though rustic, is very comfortable and has everything needed for a very pleasant stay. We booked Mountain Mist looking for a restful break and came away quite smitten with the area and ready for the week ahead. Our four-legged friend wished he had two tails he enjoyed the time away with us so much!"

(visited March 2015)

"We had a wonderful time at Mountain Mist. A beautiful setting on a remote mountain top. Peace, quiet and tranquility at its best. Although hot and the countryside in the midst of a drought, the birds, stars and scenery were spectacular and a fabulous time was had by all. Would come back in spring for the flowers. And Anne was a brilliant hostess."

(visited January 2015)

"One of the most beautiful settings. We loved our stay."

"The setting is spectacular without a doubt. Unfortunately the price is not worth the accommodation and better value can be found elsewhere. No not visit in winter as the cottage is not wind resistant resulting in the wind blowing onto you while trying to sleep. The shower is homemade and has a canvas surrounding. The bed is well past needing replacement and sags badly in the middle. Kitchen has such an odd (half broken) assortment of utensils, crockery and cups and glasses. There is nothing special about the cottage d�cor, furniture or fittings and pushes the boundaries of budget and rustic. You will note only one picture of the interior on the website. All in all I don't think the prices justifies the accommodation. There are other places that charge the same but deliver so much more. I would not return to Mountain Mist nor recommend it."

Getaway Reply

Thanks for your review Brad, this is the sms you sent me upon your departure, "Hi. We're on our way. Thank you for a wonderful stay. The adapter is in the bedroom."

(Anne Vilensky)

"Great stay if you want to kick back and just chill. A very hearty welcome and well appointed facilities await, along with a cheeky little bird that will come indoors to look for tidbits. The view is spectacular."

"It was an excellent getaway just to relax in the mountains. It was so quite and peacefully. All you hear is the wind and birds chirping. Totally awesome and not to mention the professionalism and friendliness of the host."

(visited November 2014)

"Heaven on top of the world! Mountain cabin experience worth every little penny. Views to the end of the world, awesome hikes and incredible climbing spots. Only recommendation is that you make sure you are driving a vehicle with good clearance as the road is rather rough. But views worth every kilometer you climb upward. The most wonderful hosts who open their home and heart very willingly."

(visited September 2014)

"Location, location, location ... says it all. Photos of the landscape cannot capture the experience of the vistas from this mountain top. The cabins are comfy and spotless, and private enough for a family getaway, and yet close enough to book all the cabins together with friends for some time away. Our only regret was not being able to stay longer - in fact we lingered far longer than we should have and had to rush back to city life."

"If your idea of heaven is to spend the morning walking in really special Fynbos, followed by a swim in fresh mountain water and then to while the afternoon away on a stoep with views across to St Helena Bay and a multitude of sugar birds and malachite sunbirds entertaining you in the huge protea next to your cottage, then make a booking at Mountain Mist. This is a mountain top getaway in which to relax and restore body and soul. The gentle hoot of owls at night soothes you to sleep in the clear mountain air."

(visited April 2014)

"The most amazing sunsets you will ever see!"

(visited February 2014)

"Thanks again Anne for a fantastic weekend. Lance and Irene."

(visited November 2012)

"Thank you so much for a weekend of peace and quiet. The spacing of the cottages gives one more than enough privacy, in fact we were not even aware of our neighbours. The cottages are rustic in the true sense of the word, exactly what we wanted. The weather was very dramatic, with swirling mist blowing past our cottage and sprinkling rain on the corrugated iron roof, at times like a military tattoo and others so soft and soothing you could hardly hear it. What I did hear was an owl hooting in the wee small hours of the morning, something city slickers never get the privilege of hearing. I will be back as soon as I can, I can hear your mountain calling me back. Thanks once again."

(visited July 2012)

"A beautiful setting on top of the mountain. Unfortunately we found that the three log cabins were located right on top of each other and a mere 100m from the main house which doesn't bode well for a feeling of solitude nor a dog-friendly environment as the owner's dogs will naturally attract anyone's dogs to the main house, which is frowned upon by the owners. The value for money we thought was very poor as the cabins and their contents are looking old, cheap and in need of some upgrades. Be prepared to take your own rubbish back home with you and spring-clean your own cabin upon departure. Our verdict: a nice getaway for those without dogs, however way over-priced for the quality of stay."

(visited October 2010)

"The next time your dogs eat the other guests' food, all you need do is say sorry. It is not necessary to run the establishment down or blame the owner�s dogs for your lack of control over your own dogs. Phillip and Nadine, you are welcome back here any time � without your dogs."

(Anne Vilensky - owner)

"We spent two wonderful nights at the Falcon cottage and had the most wonderful weekend! A big thank you to Anne for making this a truly unforgettable experience. We will be back!"

(visited September 2010)

"Spent a wonderful anniversary at Mountain Mist! The beautiful and tranquil setting definitely helps you put your feet back on the ground. Sugarbird Cabin was our home away from home - cozy, private and comfortable with everything you need for a relaxed, down to earth weekend away. A great place with great hosts. Thanks guys :)"

(visited October 2009)

"If you want travertine and marble, this is not going to be your thing. However, if you want tranquility, amazing views, incredibly generous hosts and friendly hounds you will love Mountain Mist. I did. It is guaranteed to become my retreat from the world."

"Mountain Mist certainly lived up to its name, even at the end of September. Enjoyed exploring, catching frogs, and getting lost in the mist. Gauteng dolls might be a bit disappointed as no hair dryer, only one heater and no fireplace in Eagles. But views wonderful. Think it's a better summer than winter location."

(visited September 2009)

"The best host and hostess ever. Learnt a lot and loved the peace and tranquility. A step away from heaven. I love Mo and Dixie - great guides. Will definitely recommend and will be back! "

(visited June 2009)

"The peace and tranquility only two hours from Cape Town combined with awesome views and great hosts make this a place to visit again and again!"

(visited January 2009)

"Breathtaking. The location of this spot is amazing, so many wonderful landscapes to explore and such a lovely cabin and surroundings to relax in. It was bliss!! The hospitability of humans and their best friends was great too!"

(visited February 2008)

"It's a loooong way to the top, but the view is worth it, yet make sure you stay a couple of nights, not like us who just came for one. We landed in the 6-sleeper, which was way too big for two, BUT the ice cold bottle of white wine and the ready set-up fire was an absolute bonus, and so was the early morning stroll to 007's secret hideaway, together with the two resident dogs. We'll be back to try out the much more cosy timber cabins and see all the flowers!"

(visited January 2007)

"Oh wow, our first Budget-Getaway property, and most enjoyable. The views are spectacular, also allowing for great walks to the bushman paintings and up to the peak with our four-legged child. Only the road leading to the property is not for the timid car we have - but still a great moment when you arrive."

(visited February 2004)

Mountain Mist

Aurora, Western Cape

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