Quick Facts
E 19°15'28''
Budget Getaways Review
The River Siding is a page from a children’s fairytale. It is also a page from a recurring suburban fantasy: “Once upon a time a harassed couple from the city dreamt about a romantic escape on a river...”
Tucked under towering trees and virtually in the water, River Siding I is a secluded rondawel that has all the elements of a charming gem: a frame of white river pebbles and woolly bush; a cute stoep ringed with bamboo and a table carved from a wonky tree; an open outlook of gushing water and jutting mountain; a rustic braai area (squint into the smoke and you might see elves turning your lamb chops); and a bamboo-enclosed shower and toilet set a little back from the rondawel.
Inside, between riet ceiling and cement floor, you’ll find everything in place for a comfortable weekend: linen, towels, Jetmaster, free firewood and all the kitchen utensils to cook up a minor storm.
The rondawel ‘officially’ sleeps four but the proverbial two’s-company-four’s-a-crowd definitely applies here. Instead, we suggest you persuade your friends to pitch a tent at the adjacent mini campsite provided for this purpose.
Heading 500m downstream, River Siding II is also right on the water, totally private, has a fireplace and is fully equipped with all the basics and thoughtful extras like tea, coffee and milk. Comprising two rooms, it’s a tad larger than the rondawel, with a possible five guests - and a spot for your pooch.
The latest addition to this fairytale farm is the Log Cabin, a luxurious space (with all the bells and whistles) that can sleep up to six people.
All units now have free WiFi, so you can keep connected with all things web during your stay.
Other than plotting a daring escape from the ratrace on your return home, River Siding offers fishing, swimming, walks in the mountain, birdwatching, rock paintings, windsurfing and boating on the farm dam.
"It is no exageration that I rate the accomodation as 5 star as this stay was magnificent. Set in the most beautiful natural environment. The river is a short 80m walk from the the Farm House where we stayed. The Farm House is very spacious yet rustic and cozy. It's clean and has a dream farm kitchen. The hosts were extremely kind and welcoming. Des, Our host, was great. What a friendly awesome guy. If you are looking for a quiet and peaceful break, this is for you. Traveling to this place through the beautiful countryside is very much part of the whole adventure. Without out any doubt this place is a gem."
(visited Sep 2021)
"We stayed in the cottage which is rustic but comfortable and great value for money. We did not want a big drive from Cape Town for three nights and it only took 1 hour 20 mins, so a great weekend getaway. The facilities were clean and the hospitality was great with tea, coffee and milk available with even a bowl of fruit from the farm. The Cottage is very secluded and cool under the trees with a beautiful view of the mountain range and right next to the river. We loved sitting on the porch outside the cottage doing nothing! We went in the dry season so the river was low but Megan arranged for a plunge pool to be put next to the cottage which was great to cool off in. You do hear traffic from the highway on occasion but you don't see it so you do forget it is there. We were there during the week so you hear the workings of the farm but nothing to stop you feeling you can relax and enjoy being away. It was great to go for walks among the fruit trees. We will definitely be back - highly recommended."
(visited February 2021)
"Absolutely the most tranquil place and best service. Will definitely be going back."
(visited Sep 2020)
"It was an amazing stay, we loved the peace and tranquility and we had a great rest. Will definitely visit again."
(visited Oct 2018)
"Accommodation was OK although kitchen equipment was very sparse and inadequate. There was no door between the en suite bathroom and the bedroom! You can hear the road from the house and the farm is very industrial so not beautiful except for the mountain backdrop in the distance. Staff could not tell us about hiking trails and what we found ourselves weren�t pretty and were litter strewn. The dam is very ugly, with no access to the water (no jetty) and it�s right next to a big factory!"
(visited Apr 2018)
"My partner and I and two kids (aged 21 and 18) visited this past weekend. I was pleasantly surprised at the cleanliness of the cottage. All the necessary things were there for us to enjoy a relaxing weekend - grid, wood, coffee, tea, sugar, towels, linen and all the needed self-catering stuff in the kitchen. We really just needed to bring food and clothes. My partner is an avid fisherman and managed to catch and release some bass in the river. He managed to get his bakkie stuck in the sand somewhere and thankfully the owner of the farm towed him out with his tractor and a smile. We will be back and I would recommend Riversiding for a value for money stay. We saw lots of guinea fowl in the trees as well as a mongoose."
(visited Jan 2018)
"The pictures on website are not nearly as good as it is in real life. What a place and very well facilitated even down to the wood for both the braai and fire place. As Arnold said... I'll be back..."
(visited Jul 2017)
"Absolutely amazing, beautiful, comfortable and peaceful. We will definitely go again."
(visited Dec 2016)
"We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Cottage, Riversiding. We found the cottage perfect for the two of us who had needed a break from city life. We have stayed over at quite a few getaways the past year and have found this to be one of the places we would definitely go back to. Thank you to our hostess who made us feel very welcome. From the beautiful little flowers in the bedroom and the kitchen to the bowl of fresh peaches to welcome us. The mornings are filled with the most beautiful sunrises and the chirping of birds as the day begins. With Ceres not too far off a run into town to purchasing necessities is not a problem. We enjoyed the drive over Mitchell's Pass and the amazing views - beautiful scenes for photo taking. The quiet of the evening sitting beside the fire listening to frogs croaking and all the other little noises the evening brings including the beautiful star filled skies add to the appeal of this place. Nowhere could you find this in the city. The only downfall due to insufficient rain was that there is only a little stream passing the front of the cottage making this part of the Breede River not ideal for swimming or walking purposes. The stones are very slippery and water is at a stand still in most places. However, the hosts had provided a portapool for swimming purposes on the lawn area in front of the cottage. We have already recommended this getaway to friends wanting to get away for a weekend or holiday. We enjoyed it tremendously and look forward to spending time at your getaway again in the near future."
(visited Dec 2016)
"Absolutely fantastic. Everything you need; tons of wood, fruit in the cottage, milk, etc. And the setting...amazing, stunning, beautiful!"
(visited Dec 2016)
"We found Riviersiding 2 a most pleasant little cottage. It is very basic, but comfortable. We loved the view of the river and even though there was very little water on arrival, we had a heavy downpour and then for 2 days the river flowed quite swiftly. We swam in the recommended part of the river and that was really great. The farm is very beautiful and the management left us to enjoy our stay and we found them very friendly. Being so close to the mountains and Ceres is a bonus."
(visited Dec 2016)
"This is my third visit to River Siding...we have stayed in all three accommodation options, and each holds their own special charm. The Rondawel is perfect for a romantic weekend away. My first comment when we sat down at the braai area was that you expect Brad Pitt or a grizzly bear to walk around the corner at any moment! The Cottage is perfect for a family weekend by the river. And the new Log Cabin is really luxurious and provides everything you could possibly need. Lovely warm hospitality from Elizna, with all the thoughtful extra touches that make all the difference to your stay. Relaxing, restful, peaceful, serene, beautiful setting...We will be back again and again."
(visited May 2016)
"We had super chilled time. The outside bonfire style braai and unlimited wood supply made this good value for money. We could make huge fires right next to the river. Absolute idyllic if you like rustic breakaways that makes you feel lost on a island."
(visited July 2015)
"What a lovely break from city life. Was just what was needed. Thanks."
(visited May 2015)
"It was an amazing weekend getaway, just being so close to the water and being surrounded by mountains. There were home baked rusks and lots of complimentary firewood, with tea, coffee, milk proved as well even blits and matches. Thank you, we will most definitely visit again."
(visited April 2015)
"There are no words to describe my findings at Oustasie, River Siding Cottage 2. The location is fantastic is it was just what we needed getting away from the busy life of the city. Now this is 5-star for me, I could not apprehend the setting of the place, the tranquility, the nature (river, mountains,greenery), the hospitality when we arrived. I love the fact that there is an alarm system giving me an idea that the owners are looking out for your safety and that's just bonuses included in the package. waking up to the peacefulness, beautiful weather the whole weekend I would have loved to stay a few more days that's how much I loved it and I think my loved one would agree. As my sister and husband were familiar to the River Siding this was their fourth stay and they keep on coming back for more. I love the cottage itself so intimate and the stoep with the table with the candles very romantic not forgetting the bond fire setting. I don't have one bad word and would return right now if I could. Please do not change a single thing because I am coming back soon! Highly recommended and would definitely bring my friends and family along . Awesome place, keep up the good work."
(visited February 2015)
"Amazing little hidden gem. Beautiful orchards to walk through, gorgeous little stream right on your doorstep. Plenty of shade. Awesome shower! Everything you could possibly need for a rustic and romantic, peaceful getaway, not far from home either. Loved it and will definitely be going back."
(visited January 2015)
"I am beginning to realize that reviews need to be read with some circumspection. There are the gushing ones where paradise is described, and sometimes those written by some very aggrieved person. The River Siding reviews are mainly of the gushing order. Our arrival at River Siding 2 was a little flat. The cottage is very plain, just two rooms and fairly tight for sleeping five. And there was lots of noise, it's is a working fruit farm with many tractors, trucks and bakkies, and two highways in close proximity. Also, incessant barking from two dogs from somewhere across the river. But, our three grandkids immediately took off for the sparklingly clean and clear waters and because it is only knee-deep for the five year old, we could relax. And that's what this place is all about. The gushing has basis for believability. The heaps of firewood mean a campfire for breakfast lunch and supper. The bird life is abundant. And you don't want to go anywhere. (Don't bother finding the farm dam, because the chemical factory next to it aint great). We had a wonderful week, and like the gushers say, "We will be back!""
(visited January 2015)
"Wonderful place."
(visited January 2015)
"Perfect retreat. Beautiful, relaxing, and a river runs through it!"
(visited June 2014)
"This was our fourth visit to River Siding. It remains one our favourite places. The small touches, free wood, rusks, coffee and tea go well with very comfortable accommodation, a beautiful setting and feeling of being well away, yet only 9kms from Ceres. This is a top venue and highly recommended. Thanks again for an awesome weekend."
(visited June 2014)
"Dit was 'n baie rustige naweek. My viervoetige kinders het dit verskriklik geniet. Ons sal dit weer besoek."
(visited April 2014)
"Great setting."
(visited January 2014)
"Ons het ons 34ste huweliksherdenking daar gaan vier en wat 'n romatiese kuier plekkie! Gelukkig vir ons het ons winter en somer in een naweek gehad en kon die kaggel - lekker met twee rocking chairs- geniet asook buite braai. Die visse het seker weggespoel, maar my man het die hope vuurmaak hout geniet. En die hoogtepunt, vuurvliegies! Een het tot binne in die huisie gevlieg en ons kon fotos neem. Kan dit beslis aanbeveel."
(visited October 2013)
"Another great weekend at River Siding. Really tranquil place, ample wood and we had guest appearance of a Giant Kingfisher right in front of cottage. Long walks and many birds, just a pity the conference/wedding venue and house have been built so close opposite river as it takes away part of seclusion."
(visited April 2013)
"We stayed at River Siding 1 for five days and we loved every minute if it. The accommodation is charming to say the least and the kids loved splashing about in the river. Loads of free firewood was an added bonus as we spent hours sitting around the fire under the stars. Beautiful setting, hospitable staff and just a few minutes from the town of Ceres. Definitely a must do!"
(visited December 2009)
"Stayed at River Siding 2 in Nov '08. Stunning setting, birdlife magnificent, river awesome, accomodation very reasonable. Great value and worth revisit. Pity no fish."
(visited November 2008)
"Had a fab weekend away with hubby. Was our second time around at River Siding II. We suggest that the twin beds be substituted for a double bed or at least a double mattress. We kept on landing in the ditch between the two - rather cold with each of us lying on a single bed. But all in all a great experience, with all the lovely extras and the opportunity to burn such huge fires (since you don't have to count the expense of the wood!) Thanks. We will be back."
(visited August 2007)
"River Siding II's setting is just beautiful. The chalet has everything you need. This getaway was food for the soul."
(visited May 2006)
"We had a fantastic time, peaceful and quiet. Definitely going again."
(visited April 2006)
"We spent three great days at River Siding I - a wonderful getaway. The setting is magnificent. Only thing missing is a hammock - that will really be a big plus in summer. The free wood and children under 13 free is also a definite plus. Will definitely recommend this getaway."
(visited April 2006)
"Spent a girls weekend at River Siding 1. Very relaxing surroundings. Awesome fireplace! We all enjoyed our stay and were sorry to leave."
(visited January 2006)
"We had a most enjoyable stay in River Siding 1. Quiet and relaxing, you do not hear or see anyone else, just the river, trees and bushes. Swimming in the river during summer months is not always possible as the water level is very low."
(visited December 2005)
"We stayed in River Siding 2. Extremely comfortable and lovely rustic setting. Perfect getaway venue!!"
(visited November 2005)
"What an awesome getaway. No one else around, quiet, very relaxing, such nice little extra's from the owners. All in all: a perfect weekend! We are hoping it's available again for the next long weekend..."
(visited October 2005)
"10 out of 10!!!"
(visited November 2004)
"We stayed in cottage 2. Even though it rained, we had a wonderful stay - lots of fires! Traffic noise is not an issue. The setting of cottage 2 is perfect, right on the banks of the river. A very peaceful place. Recommended!"
(visited September 2004)
"My two children and myself went to stay for Saturday and Sunday. We had such a wonderful time. The rondawel is spectacular. Everything we could possibly need, was provided for. The free firewood was a definite bonus!! We will definitely be going back."
(visited August 2004)
"Like Budget Getaways describes it. We stayed at River Siding 2 in March and hoping River Siding 1 is available in September hols."
(visited March 2004)
"Great weekend away. It is a good choice for a relaxing weekend. Traffic noise was a non-entity."
(visited November 2003)
Klondyke Cherry Farm
Ceres, Western Cape
Yep, a real cherry farm in our backyard, in unspoilt mountain country 30km from Ceres. The landscape is alluring and the cottages have good potential, but there is a he...
Rate Guide
From R600 to R2300, depending on unit, guests and time of year
McBains
Wellington, Western Cape
McBains is a jovial kind of place, a spot where you can hang out, meet fellow travellers, be surrounded by some of the Cape’s finest mountain scenery and retreat to...
Rate Guide
From R345 to R1645, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Tulbagh Mountain Bungalow
Tulbagh, Western Cape
This stylish and contemporary mountain bungalow certainly leaves no stone unturned when it comes to aesthetics. From its bold lines and swathes of bright colour, oodles o...
Rate Guide
From R2450 to R2650, depending on unit, guests and time of year
River Edge Accommodation
Ceres, Western Cape
You’ve been living life on the edge lately - late boozy nights, work deadlines, domestic chaos, the general humdrum of life in the fast lane. Maybe what you need ...
Rate Guide
From R1750 to R3330, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Suikerbossie Guest Farm
Ceres, Western Cape
Suikerbossie has evolved in massive leaps and bounds since the Captain Getaway and his trusty hound, the Budget Brak, first visited a few years ago. What started out as a...
Rate Guide
R165pp - R400pp nightly (group rates apply)
Vredehoek Guestfarm
Ceres, Western Cape
This beautiful working fruit farm is a nature-lovers utopia. Tucked away in a secluded valley, set along the lower slopes of the Mosterhoek Twins near Ceres, there’...
Rate Guide
From R750 to R4100, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Guinevere Guest Farm
Tulbagh, Western Cape
Yip, we get it, this isn’t your typical budget getaway. While we know you’re gawking at the nightly rate (R12k per night isn’t exactly BG territory), yo...
Rate Guide
From R12000 to R18000, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Fairfield Mountain Cottages
Ceres, Western Cape
Fairfield takes the form of three tastefully renovated cottages at the foot the Skurweberge Mountains, on 100 hectares of working fruit farm, with breathtaking views of t...
Rate Guide
From R1160 to R2900, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Eikelaan Farm Cottages
Tulbagh, Western Cape
Eikelaan is for those who like their bread with a thick layer of full cream butter. On offer at this neat working farm with wheat, vines and cattle is a pair of semi-de...
Rate Guide
From R1600, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Houdenbek Farm Cottages
Ceres, Western Cape
This is a picturesque area, nestled in the rugged Skurweberg mountains, lending itself to a hype of outdoor activity or merely the perfect scene and peaceful weekend away...
Rate Guide
From R800 to R1810, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Karee Kloof Conservancy & Guest Farm
Ceres, Western Cape
Karee Kloof Conservancy has five cottages , 7km from our reception. A breathtakingly beautiful view of the mountains and in close proximity to a natural waterfall witch w...
Rate Guide
From R2082.5 to R2700, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Vadersgawe Farm Camp (groups)
Ceres, Western Cape
Situated in the heart of a 180 hectares deciduous fruit export and equine livery farm, we are excited to offer the opportunity to experience our completely private, luxur...
Rate Guide
From R5900, depending on unit, guests and time of year
SummerHill Guest Farm
Worcester & Hex Valley, Western Cape
Upon entering the gates of the Guest House one steps into a verdant, luxuriant forested oasis that regenerates and revitalises the soul. Inspiration, individuality, comfo...
Rate Guide
From R1000 to R3925, depending on unit, guests and time of year
The Boathouse at Oakhurst Olives
Tulbagh, Western Cape
Just 90 minutes from Cape Town and part of the Cape Winelands. This tranquil farming valley is nestled between three mountains, The Groot Winterhoek, The Witzenberg, and ...
Rate Guide
From R3000, depending on unit, guests and time of year
Where You'll Also Find Us
Arniston (Waenhuiskrans) • Barrydale • Beaufort West • Betty's Bay • Bonnievale • Bot River • Bredasdorp • Caledon • Calitzdorp • Cape Agulhas and Struisbaai • Cape Town area • Ceres • Citrusdal • Clanwilliam & Cederberg • Darling • De Rust • Franschhoek • Gansbaai • George • Grabouw & Elgin Valley • Greyton • Heidelberg • Hermanus • Knysna • Ladismith • Laingsburg • Lamberts Bay • Langebaan • Malgas • Matjiesfontein • McGregor • Montagu • Mossel Bay • Napier • Oudtshoorn • Paarl • Paternoster • Plettenberg Bay • Porterville • Prince Albert • Pringle Bay • Pringle Bay, Betty's Bay and Kleinmond • Riebeek West and Riebeek-Kasteel • Riversdale • Riviersonderend • Robertson • St Helena Bay • Stanford • Stilbaai • Strand, Gordon's Bay and Somerset West • Swellendam • Tulbagh • Uniondale • Velddrif • Vermaaklikheid • Wellington • Wilderness • Witsand • Worcester & Hex Valley • Yzerfontein • Baviaanskloof • Cape St Francis • Cape St Francis & St Francis Bay • East London • Graaff-Reinet • Hogsback • Jeffreys Bay • Makhanda (Grahamstown) • Middelburg • Nieu-Bethesda • Rhodes • Sutherland