Cederkloof Botanical Retreat

Budget Getaways Review

Part of a 270ha farm near Citrusdal, Cederkloof Botanical Retreat lies in a gorgeous valley that drops down to the banks of the Olifants River.

With rugged mountain peaks and swathes of fynbos on every side, Cederkloof really is an outdoor treat: hiking trails to weird and wonderful rock formations, sundowner spots second-to-none, birdlife that’ll keep the twitchers quivering, MTB routes for the more energetic, beautiful gardens, it’s all here.

Onto the accommodation, what we have here is a 10-pack of tastefully decorated cottages dotted along the valley edge and backed by rocky slopes.

The two-bedroom units (four of them) have a room on either side of the living area, both with King beds and ensuite bathrooms. The bedrooms open onto a covered stoep and braai area, with views down the valley. The living room is open-plan to an equipped kitchen. All have outdoor jacuzzi’s (R150 surcharge applies) fed by mountain water.

The one-bedroom cottages (six of them) are open-plan affairs featuring a King bed, ensuite bathroom, equipped kitchen and living room spilling onto the patio and braai area. These units have an additional fold-out bed that's ideal for two kids. And, as is the case with the four-sleepers, each cottage comes with a jacuzzi.

Common to all 10 cottages: two free bags of firewood, aircon, indoor fireplaces, percale linen and towels and outdoor braai. Not all the units have WiFi or cell signal, so if you need to stay connected, best you opt for Unit 9 or 10.

Further to the above, there's an equipped communal kitchen/braai area (Die Optsal) within walking distance of the cottages and great for a wedding or birthday bash, as well as a swimming pool to deal with the summer blaze.

The off-site activities include nearby wine farms and restaurants in Citrusdal (10km away), horse riding, a host of hiking and biking possibilities, and miles of gravel roads to explore.

So, whether you’re taking a few cottages as a group, or just the two of you wanting a tranquil spot for R&R, Cederkloof Botanical Retreat looks to be a winner.