Tides River Lodge, Malgas, Western Cape on Budget-Getaways

Budget Getaways Review

A few guest snippets to get the juices flowing… "We had such a lovely couple of days at the Tides, just what we needed before Trev goes back to work." (Not Trevvie Manual, as far as we are aware). "The place was lovely." (That from poetic Mark.) "The little private ‘lagoon’ in front of the beautiful lawns is an ideal place for families with small children to swim in." A good-to-know. "It truly is one of the best experiences we have had when renting self-catering accommodation."

A veritable oasis in a dry wheatland ocean, Tides River Lodge can be found outside Malgas in an area known as Lemoenfontein - a prime piece of real estate hogging a curve of the Breede, with a mini island directly to the front of the property.

There are five lodges, all lie fairly close together but are strategically perched on the banks of the Breede. Direct river views, whether it be from your stoep, braai area or indoor living space, are therefore the order of the day.

Zebra Lodge is one of two group options - a double volume abode that can sleep nine in three ensuite bedrooms. Plus there's an extra room with three singles, as well as a separate flat below. The living area (with fireplace and bar) slides open to a covered dining area with braai. The bedrooms all have their own balconies overlooking the river.

Cob Cottage, a rustic, double storey thatch number, with gorgeous river views and space enough to sleep eight. The cottage has four bedrooms and cozy living room with large fireplace to tame the bite of the Breede winters. A nice option for two families or a bunch of friends.

If you are a couple rather head along to The Boathouse - a cosy thatched loft abode set more apart, and featuring a timber deck overlooking the river and a garden. It comes with an equipped kitchenette and DSTV, and can sleep max three.

Also a good option for couples is the newly built Kingfisher. Open plan in setup, Kingfisher has a double bed, equipped kitchenette and a separate bathroom and shower. Great river views are to be had from the outdoor braai area. You've got DSTV at Kingfisher as well.

Finally, Heron House lies about 10m from Zebra and describes itself as a "lovely spacious easy-living house." Alrightie. Heron features a Queen and single bed in each room and can sleep seven in comfort. The living and kitchen is open-plan and the views wonderful.

To do? Basically, all things river, including swimming, fishing, canoeing and water-skiing. There's also good birdwatching and plenty scope for long walks and morning runs along the surrounding farm roads. There's also a bush pub down the road and De Hoop Nature Reserve 14km up the way. You can of course also stay at home and braai to your heart's content, either at your own dedicated spot or a shared spiritual experience at the Tide's sheltered communal lapa.

Tides River Lodge sounds like a sociable weekend and the perfect antidote to one's usual frazzled existence.

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Guest Reviews

"Andre who runs the place was friendly and extremely hospitable. A great time was had by all. We will definitely be visiting again."

(visited May 2015)

"We are very happy with Tides River Lodge. Andre made us feel welcome. The kids is asking to go back already."

(visited January 2015)

"We had an awesome time staying at Zebra Lodge, it was comfortable and clean. The kids enjoyed themselves thoroughly swimming in the river and catching fish. The staff were helpful and friendly, and Veronica was very sweet. I can definitely recommend Tides Lodge but be prepared for the 42km gravel road. Thank you for a peaceful and relaxing getaway."

(visited December 2014)

"DSTV was very limited, which made for a long evening. Otherwise this was the very best, both scenic and comfort, peaceful and beautiful! We will be back. A canoe would have been good."

(visited November 2014)

"This was one of the most beautiful and peaceful places we have been to. The staff was friendly and helpful and the accommodation was really superb. Luckily being out of the high season there was not too many boats on the river and we had the place mostly to ourselves. Thanks to Veronica and her staff for a wonderful break away destination. You are a great team."

(visited September 2014)

"We had a lovely winter break at Tides. We stayed in Heron Cottage and were very comfortable, lots of space to relax and unwind for two families, wish we could have stayed a little longer. Lovely to be able to run and play on the sandy river banks at low tide. Pity we didn't take our own paddling boat or canoe, as with the new rules the cottage owners can't supply these to visitors."

(visited July 2014)

"Fantastic setting for a rustic stay with crisp white linen and clean towels. We stayed in Cob House which was wonderful until the next door neighbours moved in at the lodge and partied until the early hours of the morning. Being a thatch roof, the sound traveled right through and it felt like they were in the next room. Otherwise great!"

Tides River Lodge

Malgas, Western Cape

Quick Facts

Budget Getaways Review

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