Bergen Dam Cottage

"Our 5th or 6th time at Bergen Dam cottage. This is such a special place, thanks so much Marilize, we will be back again soon."

(visited Jan 2022)

"Great place, almost completely secluded barring the farm vehicle which drives past the back of the cottage maybe once a day. This however doesn't affect your stay and privacy at all. Road to cottage was a bit rough for the wifes Hyundai i10, but the plan was to take my nissan hardbody which would have excelled on the road, however nissan needed to go in for repairs so went with plan B and made it, just took a bit longer and more strategic driving. Cottage has everything required for the stay and is comfortable. Cell signal is manageable but if battery dies and no power bank, then cell signal means nothing. Great experience living "off the grid" and in the piece and quiet. Loved the fact to have to heat the water in the donkey before being able to go shower and the vroetal pool was awesome although i struggled to get the fire going to heat the water, but once going it was amazing. Keep up the good work Marilize, you have a gem and it is awesome!"

(visited December 2021)

"Awesome cottage in the most beautiful, peaceful setting! I loved getting away from city life to the rustic farm cottage. Be prepared to make your own hot water for showers etc, but that is all part of the charm. If you are wanting to get away from it all, this is the perfect place. Cannot wait to visit again, but for longer this time!"

(visited Nov 2021)

"Bergen Dam cottage is the perfect quiet getaway. Our favorite part was the - no electricity. With lanterns and the donkey water heating, fire's every night it was so much fun and so refreshing. Can't wait for the hot tub to be finished. And we got a lovely bottle of red wine, chocolates and rusks. Amazing place!"

(visited Aug 2021)

"The getaway was exactly what my family and I needed after a very busy season. When we arrived, the space was furnished beautifully - there was even fresh milk from the farm, a bottle of wine, rusks and chocolates. The attention to detail was phenomenal and the setting for long walks was idyllic. Plus we were able to bring our two precious cats who absolutely enjoyed it the most. They loved going for hikes, chasing after fireflies and catching field mice. Most certainly worth it."

(visited May 2021)

"Fantastic time if you want peace and quiet and to chill and relax, this place did it for us."

(visited Mar 2021)

"Excellent spot to relax and forget about lockdown! The cottage has an incredible outlook over the dam which provides peace to the soul. The only problem is that you have to leave."

(visited November 2020)

"Had an awesome stay, wow what a perfect setup for a place without electricity. I am definitely going back for a longer period. Perfect place for getaway from hustle and bustle of City life. Who needs Eskom with places like this. Oh and got the most creamy complimentary milk."

(visited August 2020)

"Absolutely wonderful place to visit, cosy cottage, incredible views, lots to explore and plenty of luxury to bask in. Loved it!"

(visited Jul 2019)

"It was such an exceptional experience. The view is spectacular all around the cottage with the dam in the distance, Soetmuis Mountains on the left and the cows in the meadows were all very visible from the cottage. With the cottage nestled at the foot of the Mountains and the amazing tall trees in front, you are protected from the gust of wind on the hills, yet you enjoy the rustling of the trees and appreciate the sounds of the river down below and amazing bird life. In side the cottage, it is cosy and rustic and equipped with everything we needed from pots and pans and working stove and toilet to more than sufficient lamps and matches and more than enough fire wood. Warm and clean bedding too. Thanks sooo much for that lovely fire wood the owners provided. You eventually get used to the dim lighting of the oil lamps but the fireplace inside the cottage is what I loved most. It warms the whole cottage quickly and makes the home so cosy and immediately you feel like you are on a lovely long relaxing breakaway from home. It felt that way, even if it was only two days that we stayed over. The balcony is really something - enabling you to sit back and just absorb that beautiful, peaceful surroundings of tall rustling trees and endless rolling green hills is something we will never forget. Our 3 grand kids were never bored with the box full of games, generously provided by the owners of the cottage as well as out door swings to play on. We also brought some indoor things to keep them occupied as it gets dark outside quickly. They also enjoyed observing how they were milking the cows on the farm. Pieter was great at giving us insight and a better understanding to dairy farming. The kids remembered such alot of what they had learned and their ages are 2, 5 and 7 years respectively. They loved the open spaces. We were thankful for the experience. "The donkie" (outside wood-fire geezer) was amazing. We had hot hot water all the time. Overall, we would certainly go back again."

(visited Jul 2019)

"The accommodation exceeded our expectations by far. The cottage was beautiful, and had everything we needed. This was truly the getaway that we needed, far away from all the hustle and bustle of city life. The quite farm atmosphere was truly revitalizing and we will definitely book again."

(visited Apr 2019)

"This is a real break from being connected all the time. The setting is very private and peaceful. The cottage is well equipped with the complimentary firewood a bonus!"

(visited Dec 2018)

"Lovely place, every detail catered for & really is a destination - you just have to pitch up with your own food, everything else is there for you! Definitely coming back in the future!"

(visited Sep 2018)

"This is one of our favourite getaway spots. It�s simple and rustic but well equipped with everything one needs. This was our second visit and we�ll definitely be back!"

(visited Aug 2018)

"We were greated with a bottle of local wine. The cottage was well equipped and comfortable. A true hideaway!"

(visited May 2018)

"Perfect. We loved it."

(visited Apr 2018)

"A wonderful experience of tranquility and peace. We loved the no-electricity and farm atmosphere. Perfect getaway for the tired and peace-seeking people. Beautiful, welcoming and cosy. We would love to return. "

(visited Feb 2018)

"Wow! The setting is spectacular - not a soul in sight. We loved the fact that we could just arrive and leave without interference. The bottle of wine and the jar of milk in the fridge was a pleasant surprise. All in all a wonderful experience and we will be back!"

(visited Jan 2018)

"This is a slice of heaven on earth - from the moment you step through the door you feel at home. Fresh milk from the farm's dairy, a bottle of good white wine and chocolates on the pillows are all welcoming touches. The secluded and peaceful position of the cottage coupled with gorgeous views across the valley all conspire to making this a memorable stay!"

(visited Nov 2017)

"This is a stunning setting if you want to get away from it all and connect with nature. Lovely walks on the farm roads and beautiful birds (including blue cranes). They make a very peculiar sound when they fly, listen out for it! We got all the rest and relaxation we were hoping to get and can highly recommend it."

(visited Oct 2017)

"A great cottage with beautiful surroundings. The cottage was really well kitted out and we enjoyed every moment on the farm. Highly recommended for those digital detox getaways and hiking enthusiasts! Thanks Bergen Dam we had a blast see you again soon!"

(visited Aug 2017)

"I cannot say enough about how perfect this little spot is! The cottage is gorgeous, comfortable and has everything we needed. Plenty of firewood to keep us warm and the water hot too. Luxurious beds, amazing shower. The most beautiful setting with so much space to walk and explore. Our son and doggies had an absolute blast and loved all the freedom and fresh air. Marlize left the cottage so well prepared for us with lots of extra little touches. We will be back regularly!"

(visited Jul 2017)

"A lovely tranquil retreat! We loved the peace and quiet. Pieter and Marilize were warm and hospitable hosts."

(visited Jul 2017)

"This little place is amazing! The perfect place to simply unwind and get away form it all. Very well equipped. We will definitely be back!"

(visited May 2017)

"What a special place run by special people. The cottage is spectacularly placed for a peaceful and tranquil getaway. The dogs had an absolute ball with plenty of space to run around. And there is an abundant supply of wood to keep the hearth burning through your entire stay in the colder weather. Plenty of walks and swimming in the dam. And a special treat of fresh farm milk waiting for you in the fridge. Highly recommended."

(visited May 2017)

"This was our second visit to Bergen Dam Cottage and we will certainly be back again and again. It's the perfect place to relax and switch off for a couple of days."

(visited May 2017)

"We loved our visit and our dogs had a blast. The setting is very private and beautiful and we enjoyed hiking the mountain and swimming in the dam. We also did day trips to the beach at Arniston and Struisbaai which added variety, but it was lovely to come back to the rural and peaceful setting. We received warm hospitality and really appreciated the milk, wine, rusks and other touches provided. The cottage and facilities are simple and appealing, with everything you need. We would definitely visit again for a restoring time away."

(visited Apr 2017)

"We had an incredible time here! We were craving some quietness and isolation and that is exactly what we got. The cottage was clean, well equipped and had a lovely atmosphere to it. Thank you so much, and we hope to return soon."

(visited Mar 2017)

"An amazing break away in such a beautiful spot! Hats off to the owners who went above and beyond for us and our "mishap". We will definitely be returning!"

(visited Feb 2017)

"Heaven on earth! What a gem, the solitude and peace here is magical - a wonderful place to escape from it all."

(visited Feb 2017)

"If you want peace and quiet and really want to get away from the hustle and bustle of life, this is the place for you. Swim in the farm dam, go for long walks in the mountains and light your paraffin lanterns at night. We really enjoyed our stay."

(visited Dec 2016)

"We had a fantastic stay at Bergen Dam Cottage and it was the perfect way to start our holiday. It is a lovely little cottage with everything you need and everything was very clean and looked just like in the pictures. We will definitely be back for another visit!"

(visited Dec 2016)

"Magic - that sums it up!"

(visited Oct 2016)

"With impending reports of severe bad weather due with snow on the mountains we were wondering if we might have booked this getaway a little early in Spring! We needn't have worried though as this delightful little cottage in the middle of nowhere proved to be very warm and cosy in the early Spring chill. The view from the stoep and front windows is absolutely gorgeous looking straight out over the dam with a fabulous pastoral scene beyond. The kitchen is well equipped with quality cookware and crockery (Le Creuset kettle!). We loved the extra little touches of a jug of farm milk in the fridge, a free bottle of local wine and pack of rusks...all thoroughly enjoyed! We were lovely and warm in the evenings with plenty of wood to burn on the fire which worked exceptionally well (the best we've come across on these Getaways!). Also worth noting is the biggest piece of quartz I've ever seen which serves as a braai in the wind free area to the side of the cottage. The cherry on top just has to be the proximity to Soetmuisberg with excellent hiking possibilities on the doorstep, literally! All in all this was the perfect getaway for us to blow away the city cobwebs for ourselves and our little dog. Many, thanks to Marilize...we will be back!"

(visited Sep 2016)

"Such a beautiful spot, the views from the Cottage were breathtaking. We had an awesome time."

(visited Jul 2016)

"This was one of the best weekends away that we have had. Marilize's attention to detail in the cottage is outstanding. It is very comfortable and had everything we needed. As for the location and setting, just perfect. So quiet - just frogs, birds, trees and the stream. No one for miles. We loved it and will come back again."

(visited May 2016)

"I have had my eye on Bergen Dam Cottage for over 2 years, and finally got the chance to go. We found a little paradise nestled between grassy hills, complete privacy, more firewood than we knew what to do with, delicious treats and a beautifully decorated space. This is our idea of ultimate luxury! The hosts Pieter and Marilize are incredibly friendly and helpful, even going as far as couriering our phone that got left behind back to Cape Town. I would recommend Bergen Dam Cottage to any couple or small group, looking to get some peace, quiet and serenity amidst the Overberg mountains."

(visited May 2016)

"Lovely location, very private, lovely cows all around, well equipped, fresh milk and rusks upon your arrival, main bed is very comfortable and loads of wood for the fire, donkey and for braaing."

(visited Apr 2016)

"Stunning 3 night getaway for hubby and me and another couple...quaint, clean, beautiful scenery, stunning walks, some trail running and an awesome day trip to De Mond."

(visited Mar 2016)

"Oh very nice! This was just what the doctor ordered for a relaxing time away with good friends and all the doggies. The extra finer touches was much appreciated, thanks. We will visit again, for sure."

(visited January 2016)

"What an amazing place! We needed a desperate break and this was the ideal place to just read a book, relax, watch nature and enjoy. It was home from home with the only exception, work was far away. Had it all, sitting on the deck watching a little Hoopoe bird feeding its young, sipping a whiskey, a wonderful walk on the farm in sun and then in the rain. The highlights were the donkey boiler, enough blitz and wood to last forever, ultimate privacy, nature and the birdlife, in other words The Full Monty. To top it all off awesome, friendly hosts. We even managed to buy a bale of straw from them which we really need for our compost and garden."

(visited November 2015)

"This was our second visit to Bergen Dam, and both times we loved every minute. The cottage is exquisite! Details are taken care of. Although no electricity, you never want for light or warmth or hot water or firewood. It's just divine. There's lots to do but mostly we did nothing. Read, ate, slept. Looking forward to our next visit."

(visited May 2015)

"This was our second time at Bergen Dam and it didn't disappoint. This time we met Pieter, the farmer who gave us the A-Z of dairy farming and a real live demonstration of Artificial Insemination. Whew, not for the faint hearted! The kids loved feeding the calves and who can not appreciate the total privacy that the cottage offers. It really is a special spot and a great point from which to explore Cape Agulas, Arniston and all the national parks. A definite thumbs up!"

(visited April 2015)

"Our second visit and we looked forward to it all year, hoping this can be our regular December break. Much needed sleep, relaxation, perfect for kids. We did nothing much at all this time, read books, played Barbies, swam. A very special place. Marilize and Pieter are both very kind. I left my glasses behind, a big problem as I'm very short sighted, but Marilize arranged for her brother in law to bring them to Cape Town. Special people. Great break."

(visited January 2015)

"What a wonderful place! Great hosts and great location. The most relaxing stay so far!"

(visited January 2015)

"I had a very particular idea in mind when looking for accommodation for some downtime and this little cottage was precisely what I had pictured: secluded, cozy, pet-friendly and beautifully put together. Bergen Dam is nestled next to a copse of trees, in the middle of expansive farmland with the view of a sparkling dam which was precisely what I had wanted. It is hound heaven and our little Frenchie had a ball of a time bounding through the grass and learning to swim in the dam. The little touches like fresh farm milk, homemade rusks and a bottle of wine are what really made the stay a special one. We will without doubt be back to this little cottage time and time again."

(visited January 2015)

"So perfect I don't even want to give such a good review because everyone will want to go! If you looking for a wonderful isolated place to relax, read, drink wine, reconnect with family and feel alive again look no further. No electricity only adds to the ambiance. Beautiful cottage, very comfortable and well equipped. Super comfy. We have already booked for next year!"

(visited December 2014)

"It was awesome. perfect getaway. The fact with no electricity made it even more special. I will go back. Loved the outside braai area which is a big rock which they used as a braai area It really was awesome. nice and quite and very peaceful, they had everything you could need and the facilities provided was spot on."

(visited December 2014)

"A very special, cozy little cabin. The fresh farm milk, packet of buttermilk rusks, wine and welcome letter were so appreciated. Excellent value and very unique."

(visited November 2014)

"Attention to detail in a very remote and rustic setting. Beauty abounds as far as the eye can see. An absolute gem."

(visited October 2014)

"Amazing! There are no words to describe the tranquility of Bergen Dam. Be it swimming in the dam, hiking through the forest, laying in the sun, sitting on the deck watching the world go by, sitting in front of the fire reading a book, whatever you do is so peaceful and relaxing. Truly an amazing place and you won't be disappointed. We will be back soon."

(visited September 2014)

"Arriving as work-weary travelers to an oasis of warmth, natural beauty and peaceful surroundings was a dream come truth for my husband and me. The phones were immediately switched off, the fires lit and the wine glasses set out, though they were only used on the second day as we fell early into bed and slept for 13 blissful hours. With unlimited wood the fires burnt without stop on a cool and wet winter weekend. The birds singing outside were a constant companion as we read, caught up with conversations we haven't had time for in months and slept, again. By Saturday afternoon we were ready for a walk and enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the canola and wheat fields, stopping to take photo's and admire the view. A hot shower awaited on our return with the 'donkie' having faithfully spent all day heating the water to steaming hot temperatures. A lovely Gemsbok steak on the fire started the evening off and we started stripping our winter clothes as the fireplace heated the entire cottage up to comfy socks and t-shirt weather. To sum up the experience: it was exactly what we needed, no other people to be seen for miles, only birds and cows for company and the milk, rusks and wine left for us in the kitchen made us feel like we had been treated with care and love. Its extremely affordable and the perfect winter getaway jewel!"

(visited August 2014)

"A wonderful spot for kids and adults. Safe, beautiful setting, the lack of electricity is an adventure and of course seeing the dairy in action an added bonus. Our dogs had as much of a holiday as we did. Nothing is missing from the cottage, we loved our stay."

(visited June 2014)

"It was lovely, situated in a very tranquil area. It was a lovely break from the busy city life. The surroundings are beautiful and there is so much open space for the kids to play. We really enjoyed our stay."

(visited March 2014)

"What a fantastic weekend away. We can highly recommend it to anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The cottage was beautifully maintained and decorated and all the small personal touches made the experience extra special. Going without electricity and using oil lamps and wood fired water heater really felt like travelling back in time, we loved it! A must visit for anyone looking for a wonderful weekend away to unwind. We'll be back again!"

(visited April 2013)

"We took a four day break to this little piece of paradise a few years ago. I was just reminiscing about it and thought I should share our experience. WOW! We lost track of time and all worldly problems seemed to fade away whilst floating on the dam with a glass of wine. The house has everything you need and the entire experience was just amazing. Hoping to go back again real soon and bring our furry children along this time. Would recommend Bergen Dam any time to those who wish to escape reality and just relax."

(visited January 2013)

"What an absolute gem. Marilize and Pieter are just the most amazing hosts with a keen eye for detail. There is nothing not to love about this place. Everything from the decor to the fresh milk in the fridge. Home made rusks with a lovely note to welcome the guest. The bedrooms are grandly rustic with a very romantic and cozy feeling. The small kitchen is the ideal please to play board games or to drink red wine while the fire glitz in the back. On the deck the morning welcomes you in all its glory and is by far the best place to have breakfast, lunch or dinner. There is more than enough wood to braai, make a fire and to "stook die donkie'. I fell in love with this place and will return to enjoy the beautiful little cottage."

(visited June 2012)

"WOW! Having "tested" at least 30 getaways from Budget Getaways, this is the best! The pics really don't do this amazing place justice - the attention to detail and the love that goes into this place can really be felt and seen. All the little touches that you will experience yourself (don't want to spoil the surprises!) are unbelievable. The setting is the most private you can get - having your cottage about 500m away from any farmhouse with open spaces and great views is special. Our Rhodesian ridgeback loved the horses,cows,birds and was nicely tired when we got home. Thanks Marilize and Pieter - please don't change a thing!"

(visited May 2011)

"Bergen Dam is a gem. If you want to revitalise body and soul, this is the place to go. The view is breathtaking, the cottage has absolutely everything you could possibly need and it is cosy, comfy and highly recommended."

(visited December 2010)

"Absolutely fantastic! Arrived for a three-night stay. Left feeling the most relaxed in years. Loads of effort put in by owners to make the place feel and look special (fresh farm milk, fresh strawberries, farm eggs, chocolates on the bed and champagne chilling in the fridge). Definitely a high value for money place, perfect for dogs, ours loved it and slept for a week afterwards! Close to the Struisbaai and Agulhas coast and loads to do in-between the various towns around. Thanks, we're recommending to all we know!"

(visited September 2010)

"Our piece of HEAVEN."

(visited April 2010)

"Marilize and Pieter you have the most amazing spot of tranquility! Thanks so much for all the treats this Easter weekend. We had the most relaxing time walking, bird watching and even a quick dip in the dam. Our bull terriers were in bully heaven! Needed this weekend away to recharge our batteries and am now feeling refreshed. See you in Aug!"

(visited April 2010)

"A really memorable getaway from it all, with interesting personal touches, and all the basic necessities to make a comfortable and peaceful stay. Will be back in summer to enjoy the farm dam and concrete reservoir pool and hours of soaking up the sun. Should be a great getaway for the naturist to enjoy solitude, privacy and cooling off in the pool or dam."

(visited June 2008)

"Pieter and Marilize are true to the area's hospitality.The creativity and love put into this getaway will leave you speechless. The pictures reflect 10% of what you can truly expect.This place is a true gem.One we will visit over and over.The house caters for all your needs and its surroundings will be an adventure paradise for adults, kids and dogs alike.There is a magic little forest to explore, a dam with toys and the most gorgeous deck and braai area, a lawn out front to play games and nice little treats left by your hosts.Well done!!!""

(visited April 2008)

"We had a really relaxing and pleasant stay at Bergen Dam Cottage! The cottage is well equipped for all one�s self-catering needs and the surrounding scenery is beautiful. Our friendly host, Marilize, also made us feel more than welcome and left us some lovely surprises in the cottage - which we won�t spoil for new guests :) All-in-all, this is definitely one of the best budget getaways we've ever experienced!"

(visited January 2008)

"It was wonderful, peaceful and so relaxing. If you just want to get away from it all this is the place to go. So quaint and clean, will definitely return."

(visited December 2007)

"We loved it and the dogs enjoyed it too! The setting is fabulous, especially being 'stoksielalleen'. The surrounding towns are well worth the visit. The hosts were very friendly and extremely helpful. A definite will-go-again experience."

(visited December 2007)