River Magic Cottages

"Great get away if you are looking for peace and silence and no phone bothering you. Isolated yet 20min away from beach. back track cottage is away from the rest with an romantic setting."

(visited Jan 2023)

"Great 10 days of complete relaxation"

(visited Jan 2023)

"We have stayed at Base Huis several times and absolutely love it. It is a rustic home in the best location, right on the waters edge with a private jetty. Lovemore the caretaker is wonderful and attentive should you need anything. I can highly recommend it. We will certainly be back."

(visited Dec 2022)

"Facilities were all excellent, except for the bathroom which wasn't appealing and needs some attention."

(visited November 2022)

"Excellent spot for a secluded getaway. Peaceful, beautiful scenery, very comfortable accommodation with lovely open-plan kitchen and indoor fire place for winter. Dogs had a blast! Could definitely spend more time here. The river is magical and the hosts were fantastic. Definitely coming back."

(visited Jul 2022)

"Absolutely magical setting(as name suggests). Our house was very well kitted out and we had absolutely everything we needed. All appliances were modern and high quality. House had a lovely rustic feel. Canoe provided for free attached to jetty. I enjoyed many peaceful journeys up and down the river located just on the doorstep! I also had plenty of cold swims in the river (River was between 17.5 and 20 C when I went in April). Give this lovely remote cottage a try!"

(visited Apr 2022)

"Duiwenhok huisie can do with a bit of upkeep and maintenance, especially the shower and dilapidated bench lying around. The rest was idyllic and peaceful. Will definitely come again, now knowing that we must bring black plastic bags with us,"

(visited Mar 2022)

"This cottage has everything you need, located in the most beautiful setting and a two minute walk from the river. Although - the fact that is is not on the water's edge never bothered us at all. The pond and big willow tree was magical. The rustic character filled cottage was the best place to unwind and best thing ever to not have cellphone reception!"

(visited Sep 2021)

"The setting of this cottage is unbeatable. Some extra maintenance would enhance this accommodation."

(visited April 2021)

"We stayed at Blessed Be which sleeps 12 people. The accommodation is secluded and slit up in a way that provides privacy to all guests. Although rustic, all basic amenities were provided. There's no cell service or wifi, which makes this the perfect place to get away for some R&R. Kyle the manager was very friendly and helpful. Cheslin the baker made the most amazing sourdough bread and breadsticks which needs to be ordered ahead of time. Overall we had a lovely, peaceful stay and will definitely be back soon!"

(visited Mar 2021)

"A perfect weekend getaway. Will be back."

(visited January 2021)

"We had an absolutely wonderful time at Glory Be (River Magic Cottage). Although the cottage is very rustic, it has everything you need and the setting is beautiful. We loved being right on the river. Robert and Kyle were both extremely helpful, communicative and friendly hosts. Being able to buy delicious, freshly baked bread from Chesslin at the Vermaaklikheid local bakery was a happy bonus. Thank you to all."

(visited Jan 2021)

"Vermaaklikheid is an unspoilt very rustic piece of heaven on earth. We stayed at Deck Plek and thoroughly enjoyed it. The kitchen was well kitted out, the mattresses were comfortable and we loved Paul original artworks on the walls. Kyle, the manager is the most helpful and incredible human. If you love being on the river... fishing, kayaking and enjoy peace and quiet, this is the place for you."

(visited January 2021)

"Fantastic stay. Lovely setting. Kyle was hands-on, professional and available to help."

(visited December 2020)

"A little bit of heaven. A quaint two-bedroom cottage with an outside room, and a peaceful setting, with lovely braai facilities next to the pond. A little walk to the river jetty, which is down the road. I would advise packing your own canoes, and boogie boards if you are into water sports. The outside bedroom I would recommend for adults, but not young children as its a bit removed from the house. Such a great place to reboot. Thank you. Great value for money."

(visited September 2020)

"We found this spectacular gem when we were trying to get away from the city during the COVID-19 lockdown. We were looking for something remote and tranquil and boy did we find it! We stayed at Deck Plek which was one of the only houses on our side of the river. The two month long stay felt like 2 weeks because we enjoyed every single moment of it. The house itself is right in the river and boasts 12 beds, and indoor fire place, an outdoor braai area and an indoor and outdoor shower. The house was fully kitted and the kitchen left nothing to be desired! We had all the appliances we needed and the furnishings were lovely- including art by a local artist :). The house also came with a small boat and kayak which we took full advantage of- kayaking up and down the river everyday! One day we kayaked all the way to the river mouth at Puntjie and spent a lovely day on the beach! Another day we kayaked up the river as far as we could and saw the most beautiful bird life- Vermaklekheid is definitely a bird watcher�s dream! In addition to the kayaking- there are many hiking and off road trails which we also enjoyed on the daily! We took the off road trails on our bike and visited nearby towns including Witsand and Stillbaai. The weather in the winter was an absolute dream, with chilly evenings but warm days perfect for a swim in the river followed by an outdoor shower. In addition, for those hoping to work remotely, we were able to get pretty decent 3G signal and set up a remote office. Our two months here were the perfect getaway from the madness of city living! We will never forget the beautiful moments spent here listening to the quiet sounds of the night, watching the birds and the stars and maximising outdoor living! Thank you so much Rob and Kyle!"

(visited Jul 2020)

"A magical tucked away spot - if you want a quiet nature break this is it. Great bird life and aloes. And the sourdough bread from the local bakery was fantastic and highly recommended."

(visited Oct 2019)

"We had a really great weekend and Kyle, who was incredible and a really helpful, informative and wonderful guy. They went out of there way to assist with bread and wood. All in all it was an incredible weekend and very much needed. Thank you."

(visited Jul 2019)

"We loved our stay at Glory Be. This is probably the 20th time we stayed there and it was fantastic as always. The location is just the best, and we are already looking forward to our next visit."

(visited Mar 2019)

"The staff were amazing and very accommodating - we only arrived at 9.45pm and still needed to ferry up the river - thank you Kyle Bam, you are a star of note. Andrew, thank you for getting this all in place in such a short period of time. We stayed at Glory Be and I speak for all 8 of us......this was one of the most awesome weekends we have had in a very long time - the setting is amazing and an ideal location to just kick back and enjoy time spent with friends and family as we did.....we will be back soon, thanks again."

(visited Jan 2019)

"We had a lovely, tranquil weekend in Base Huis. Although this info is clearly stated on the website, families with young children must just note that the rooms open to the outside - our kids were too scared to sleep alone."

(visited Jan 2019)

"We had the most amazing stay at Deck Plek! The setting is picture perfect and we'll definitely be back again!"

(visited Sep 2018)

"We were pleasantly surprised! Our stay at Base Huis was all and more than what we expected. The accommodation was neat and comfortable with everything we needed. Kyle the manager was there when we needed him and his service was good. The use of the canoe was awesome and we could fish from the jetty. This was money well spent and we will definitely be back. Kyle took us on a short trip down river to show us the other houses. Glad he did as we can now recommend all there is to friends and family. Thank you. Till next time!"

(visited Sep 2018)

"The design of Back Track allows plenty of light into an otherwise suitably small and cosy stone cottage - complete with beautifully thatched roof. It's a pleasing aesthetic that blends in well with the surrounding papyrus reed, grass and river shrub. The open fireplace draws well and helped to keep the winter chill at bay. We found the cottage to be well equipped with just the necessaries and loved the uncluttered interior, leaving enough space for your own thoughts to wander under starlit sky and morning light. A perfect retreat for 2 people. Kyle was a welcoming host and went the extra mile to make our stay memorable."

(visited Aug 2018)

"Dek Plek house is very comfortable and well equipped. We all loved the upstairs deck, the braai area downstairs, the peacefulness, the remote location, the bird life, easy river access, the utter stillness; all making it an extremely pleasant long weekend away as a family. We had space, time, peace and quiet to unwind a bit and reconnect with each other as a family. Early morning and late afternoon fishing off the jetty in front of the house, a gentle pre-dawn paddle in the canoe up the river to watch the sun rising between the hills, the mirror like reflections on the very slow moving river, birds skimming low over the water. The evening braais, the huge fireplace to warm the open plan lounge - kitchen -dining area when it got chilly at night. Warm and comfy beds after a piping hot shower meant a solid nights sleep in the utter stillness and quiet. River Magic's residential manager Kyle is an outstanding host, and we appreciated his great personality, and sense of humour. Would we return? Of course ! Plans are already being made for a longer holiday next year."

(visited Jul 2018)

"Everything was excellent, we just could not find anybody when we checked in, but Robert popped in during the evening to say hi."

(visited May 2018)

"Lovely getaway!"

(visited Apr 2018)

"Our experience at Buis Huis was amazing. It was exactly what we hoped it to be, from the pristine nature and mirror-like stillness of the river to the rustic architecture and self sustainable environment. I'd also like to commend Kyle on his superb service, warm reception and friendly nature. Unfortunately the Kob did not bite but we managed to fish 3 Blacktail, 1 cape Stumpnose and a Barbel. We will definitely be back."

(visited Feb 2018)

"Beautiful setting, relaxing atmosphere and comfortable with everything you need. "

(visited Jan 2018)

"Awesome setting with beautiful clean fully equipped houses. Very friendly and helpful staff. Even the spiders were friendly, no biters!"

(visited Jan 2018)

"A very pretty cottage in a wonderful space. Relaxing and comfortable, in an interesting village. Perhaps a bit over priced."

(visited Jan 2018)

"Best, best, best. Deck Plek couldn't be better. We'll be back."

(visited Dec 2017)

"Kyle was absolutely fantastic!"

(visited Jul 2017)

"Lovely, simple, peaceful, beautiful, tranquil, clean, modest, helpful on site staff, lots to do, see, experience in pure nature."

(visited Jul 2017)

"I enjoyed my 40th out at Glory Be with a few friends (7 in total and 5 dogs). It was so great. Peaceful surroundings, plenty of space and everything else. There was a great view of river from your braai spot and if it gets too cold, you can always move to the fireplace inside. The place was clean, and Kyle who helps you getting there and back is super friendly and always willing to help. Try book for more than 1 weekend as time goes by very quickly as you are having so much fun. We will definitely be back."

(visited May 2017)

"The most perfect getaway, far away from everything. No need for luxuries, just being "marooned" on the other side of the Duiwenshoks river was perfectly sufficient. We were fortunate to have the last blast of summer, so were treated to lots of river activities and swimming too. We can't wait to go back again."

(visited Apr 2017)

"The name of the cottages is not accidental - to stay in a secluded, welcoming cottage on the river for a few days is pure magic. Totally disconnected from the rest of the world, your biggest challenge is to row a canoe or go for a swim in the clean waters of the river. Then head to the cottage to start the braai and have a sundowner on the wide stoep to the accompaniment of bird songs and the murmur of the river all around you. When darkness descends you are cushioned by the stars. When life becomes hard - disconnect, spend a few nights at Glory Be and come back refreshed and at peace with the world. My favourite place!"

(visited Apr 2017)

"Great little gem - will be back for sure!"

(visited Mar 2017)

"Loved it - the perfect getaway. The house was clean and neat, and situated right on the river. It was easy to book and easy to pay."

(visited Feb 2017)

"We had a wonderful time at Deck Plek. The house is light and airy with a well equipped kitchen. Thank you to Kyle and everyone at River Magic, we'll be back!"

(visited Jan 2017)

"The time spent staying at Glory Be was truly amazing, from start to finish! From the comfortable and cosy setup to the welcoming spirit of it all, we all feel totally relaxed and well rested. A special thanks to Kyle who made our stay even better somehow. He was always on call to help out, show us around and was generally welcoming and generous. Thanks again, and will most definitely see you again."

(visited Oct 2016)

"We had a fantastic weekend away! This was a lovely setting with great amenities."

(visited Apr 2016)

"We had a wonderfully relaxing few days with extended family from the UK. The house is perfect for big groups - we were 11 people plus 2 dogs. It is far from anywhere else so we had no noisy neighbours. We spent our time canoeing, fishing, walking, playing cricket and boulle on the lawn, braai-ing and eating in this photographic paradise with its birdlife and deserted cottages. We took a boat trip to the sea where we spent the day on the beach and stopped to fish a few times on the way back. The kitchen facilities were minimal (one drying cloth for 3 days, no serving bowls, and the oven did not work) but we made a plan. Bathrooms were adequate and the outside shower was the family favourite - high pressure and very hot water - and a view!"

(visited Mar 2016)

"Had a fantastic 40th Birthday getaway at this stunning place. We stayed at Glory Be cottages, loved the walks and swims down the river and generally had a wonderful time in this secluded place. The ferry boat drive down the river to the cottage really gives the feeling of being away from it all. Robert was also very friendly and accommodating with finalizing plans for the weekend and Kyle was a superstar getting us all up and down the river and sorting anything else we needed. Thank-you! Will definitely return here asap."

(visited Mar 2016)

"We've come here quite a few times. You can't beat this for the most relaxing getaway (no cell signal). Spend your days swimming, reading a book going for a walk. We'll definitely be returning."

(visited Feb 2016)

"Absolutely loved the location. None of us were ready to go home. Will definitely be back."

(visited July 2015)

"We were greeted by a very helpful and accommodating Kyle on our arrival. He immediately carried our luggage to the boat that was to take us to 'Glory Be', our accommodation on the opposite side of the river, a little way upstream. When our other friends arrived and all was packed onto the boat Kyle took us to our cottage. Having no idea what to expect it was lovely to emerge from the boat, rush up the stairs & be welcomed by a very comfortable kitchen & living area. Since the weekend was rather cold we made use of the fireplace on a nr of occasions. It made for a very cozy atmosphere and kept us warm and relaxed. To be able to bring our dogs was a bonus. They are a part of our families and we enjoy having them where we go. We brought the dog beds and all was well, although initially our Golden Retriever was not too happy with the floating jetty but with a piece of biltong she soon overcame her angst. The fishing rods soon came out but only a catfish was caught and released (and nobody took fishing very seriously but it was a reason to lie/sit around the jetty when the sun was out) The beds proved to be very comfortable and the outside shower was best. We also enjoyed a walk into the hills behind Glory Be. Lovely. Kyle was very punctual at picking my little family up to take us back to our car a day earlier than our friends. We were not quite ready to go home yet but duty called. Thank you for a very enjoyable stay."

(visited July 2015)

"Not sure if there was a grid to Braai with. Also in the dark the dirt road was long. In directions put km on dirt road an we never actually knew where the village was and went straight on looking for a village. Not sure if it was load shedding that night but certainly very few lights and hard to tell that is a village and in the dark hard to see River Magic signs. Otherwise all great."

(visited May 2015)

"The stay was great and we will be back. The Manager of River Magic Cottages, Kyle, is to be commended for going out of his way to ensure that we had a fantastic time. We had a friend from England with us and he echo's these sentiments."

(visited March 2015)

"We had a brilliant time at River Magic Cottages, we stayed in the house called Backtrack. There are boats and canoes for use, and a lovely big braai area. The river is amazing, great for swimming and spotting birds. the self catering facilities are really very good. It's really beautiful and the people are helpful and friendly and we would love to go back one day! Thank you very much."

(visited March 2015)

"The setting was gorgeous. The hikes were great. The boating on the river was real fun. The management was really welcoming and helpful."

(visited March 2015)

"Brilliant recipe to rejuvenate ones soul in 3 glorious days: 1. Take a handful of really good chums and enough grub (and grog!) for the duration, and place all carefully in 4x4's, 2. Set dial on speaking map thingy to Glory Be, 3. Slow drift by boat to your final destination, far away from the Madding Crowd, 4. Roll in some beautiful magic - the majesty of the stars, the pristine conserved natural ecosystem; the never ending river. Paradise found, worth every cent."

(visited March 2015)

"We had a wonderful stay here for three days at Base Huis, great setup and oh so close to the river. Which is very swimmable. We explored 'the village', the river and even a trip to the coast. We'll be back."

(visited February 2015)

"Absolutely wonderful five days, and Kyle was a star host. We had a broken pipe but he fixed it as soon as reported."

(visited January 2015)

"This is a lovely rustic setting where one can thoroughly unwind. We had an excellent time, despite not being anglers."

(visited January 2015)

"A great place to get away from it all. It is beautiful and if you need to unwind for a holiday without the distractions of shopping centers and crowds this is the place to go. We stayed at Glory Be (the cottage that can only be reached by boat) It was fabulous as it was really isolated on on the river. We did however rent a little boat with an engine to motor us up river and down to the mouth which was fabulous. Would not have been the same if we were entirely housebound. If you are squeamish for creepy crawlies, it might not be the best place for you but that said the buck, eagles, bird life and even a wild hare we encountered was beautiful. And best of all it was pet-friendly so we brought the dogs along and they loved it. Kyle, managing the cottages was also an absolute star."

(visited January 2015)

"It lives up to its name, River Magic is magic on a broad winding river. We swam, we swung on ropes and swings, we canoed, we SUPped on the new (thank you) surf skis and our own SUP, the kids covered themselves in mud and we read books, played board and card games, cooked and drank wine. A perfect respite from everyday life."

(visited January 2015)

"Great place to go for a weekend away. Was nice and comfortable, enjoyed it. Kids loved having so much space."

(visited January 2015)

"BackTrack, one of the River Magic Cottages, was our home for 14 magical days. The main cottage sleeps four. My husband and two adult daughters were very comfortable. An added bonus was the self-contained, twin bed Wendy house, which was home to a number of visiting friends. Our three dogs were in heaven as the cottage is only 300m from the beautiful, warm, freshwater Duivenhoks River. We spent many hours swimming, paddling, swinging from the rope swings and putt-putting up and down. Most days started with either a cycle or run to Puntjie where we swam in the sea. The outdoor living area at BackTrack lends itself to long sociable evenings in front of the braai. Sleep is enhanced by the sounds of frogs croaking in the garden pond. It's truly a place to relax."

(visited December 2014)

"Great spot."

(visited November 2014)

"We spent three nights at River Magic Cottages (Glory Be Cottage). We loved the remoteness and the uniqueness of the cottage. Everything we needed for self-catering was provided and much fun was had in the canoe and rowing boat. A good place to read, relax and spend quality time with family."

(visited September 2014)

"An absolutely brilliant location and wonderful place to get away form it all. There really aren't many places like this left that are so undisturbed and natural. We spent three nights at Glory Be and enjoyed every minute of it. A special mention and thank you to Kyle (the manager) who is so very helpful and friendly! Definitely returning."

(visited August 2014)

"We had a fantastic weekend on the river, I really can recommend the place for people with children and dogs that enjoy nature and a quiet weekend. The house is absolutely beautiful and has such nice feel to it! Kyle, the manager, was super friendly and helpful and of course the swing over the river was the absolute highlight for the children (and adults!). We'll come again."

(visited May 2014)

"The kids and dogs were wet and filthy by the end of the day but had a wonderful time. River Magic is a beautiful setting and Back Track Cottage was lovely, from the spacious outside area to cosy fireplace inside. We had a relaxing weekend and will definitely be back for more. The swing over river was, of course, the highlight of weekend for the kids."

(visited August 2013)

"We had a fantastic week end. We stayed in Back Track and Base House. The houses are well equipped, everything we needed was there. The setting of Base House is wonderful."

(visited July 2013)

"We will come back anytime! This place is true Heaven."

(visited June 2013)

"Had a great weekend stay here. The cabin was very well equipped and comfortable and we felt like we had the river to ourselves! Our dog loved it too, although we must have pulled over 100 ticks off of her throughout our stay. Kyle took us up the river and was very helpful and professional. Thanks for a great stay.

(visited May 2013)

"For those who truly want to get away from it all, this is the spot. No sight or sound of humanity for an entire week. Temperate evenings with soft cool breezes blowing over you through open doors, long sunny days on the stoep sipping G&Ts, overlooking the river, just us, the birds, the fish and our dogs, a true respite. Facilities are humble yet complete, appropriate for the setting and compliment the sense of mystique and adventure. Anything more contemporary would detract from the experience."

(visited March 2013)

"Wow - what a great surprise - a lovely light and bright, super clean cottage. We stayed at Back Track cottage with our two dogs (a labby and a german shepherd) and they loved it - especially the pond! They even enjoyed being in the row boat on the river. The kitchen is fully equipped with fridge/freezer and a chest freezer. If pushed - the only criticism - a free bundle of wood provided for the first night would have been nice but you can buy great wood from the manager, Kyle, who was super friendly and helpful. I will be recommending it to friends and colleagues."

(visited March 2013)

"We had really fantastic weekend with friends visiting from the UK. The only noise was from the birds and the sound of our children squealing as they jumped into the river from the jetty. Even the dog enjoyed canoeing up the river to spend the morning on the little beach. The manager, Kyle was very helpful and hospitable, as was the ferry man, Justin. We also had a lovely welcome from the owners. The house was clean, well-equipped and comfortable. The architecture of the house gave each family their privacy and the kids loved having their own dorm to share. We really don't have any complaints - it was a near perfect weekend. If you bring your dog be warned that he may come back from walks in the bush with a lot of ticks on board, so a tick collar is recommended. We highly recommend 'Glory Be'."

(visited February 2013)

"One of the most special places on earth and one I will continue to visit and hopefully retire to one day ;-)"

(visited May 2012)

"Stunning setting for a magical break-away. First holiday with our dogs and they loved it as well. Will definitely be going back!"

(visited March 2012)

"Watter belewenis. Ek en my vrou en dogter het vir 11 dae leeg gel� in Glory Be. Dit was sommer groot lekker kry met deure wat dag en nag oopstaan of jy nou tuis is of nie. Geen bekommernis van alarms, goed wat veilig wegpak moet word ens. nie. 'n Skelm viervoetige het een aand ons vars broodrolletjies gesteel seker omdat hy al moeg was vir insekte en veldkos. Vo�ls wat soggens in die takke voor 'n oop deur jou vroeg soggens wakker sing.'n Heerlike rivier om in te swem, visvang, roei en ons het krappe gevang wat groter as 'n eetbord is, selfs een wat meer as 2kg weeg. Daar is ook 'n lekker paadjie agter die huis wat teen die rante uitgaan om te stap en Turksvye wat in die veld gepluk kan word. Ons Persiese kat het gedink dit is die hemel waarin sy is. Om weg te kom van die stad se gejaag en TV en sulke goed is dit die regte plek om jou kop weer skoon te kry. Ek sal net aanbeveel wanneer langer as drie daar gebly word om 'n klein motorbootenjin saam te vat. Ons s� ook baie dankie aan die eienaar Paul en sy vrou vir die vriendelike ontvangs en lekker gesels."

(visited January 2012)

"River Magic Cottages are fantastic. My son and I spent five days at Glory Be and it was truly a special time. I cannot recommend it highly enough."

(visited June 2010)

"Magic: that's what Backtrack has in common with the River Magic cottages on the same property situated on the lovely Duiwenhoks river. Designed to offer relaxed living in total harmony with the unspoilt setting, so that the gentle swaying and swishing of the tall reeds outside and the sky with its clouds and stars are as it were brought right inside to make you forget of stress and exhaustion. The nearby river further offers water-related activities that will keep everyone busy to their heart's content. On top of all this: the people are friendly and helpful. Highly recommended!"

(visited December 2009)

"Peaceful, tranquil, amazing, and relaxing - is what Glory Be offers. This place is a hidden gem and I am glad that we have discovered it. The boat row over was eventful, with neither one of us able to row in a straight line. We conquered the river by going in alternating left and right semi-circles. What a lovely, tranquil surprise awaited us. Just the two of us went, but we will certainly be back on our own and with many friends who have drooled over the photos."

(visited February 2007)

"We took our three little boys and they had a ball. Swimming, fishing, paddling on the canoe and their favourite was the 'King Swing'. A very special place but pack light and bring a little engine so you can putter down to the sea."

(visited January 2007)

"Vermaaklikheid seems like a second home now! You can't ask for a more tranquil setting and everything is very comfortable. The dogs loved the boat trip! We'll definitely be back."

(visited December 2006)

"I spent a part of my honeymoon at Glory Be, an absolutely magical setting, sundowners on the river every night - however, our stay was spoiled slightly by the presence of workmen who came to the cottage two days in a row to do different things - was horrible. But otherwise great accommodation and setting."

(visited December 2005)

"Well equipped and neat as a pin! A home away from home...we'll be back!"

(visited April 2005)