McBains

Budget Getaways Review

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 your own cozy quarters when you’re up for a rest. Run by super-friendly hosts, Ma'ayan and Justin, who know all the best spots to explore in the surrounding mountains, this is the kind of place where you can embrace that crisp mountain air, put your feet up and enjoy a vibe that’s bound to chill you out proper!

Taking a look at the layout in general, the communal area is made up of a large lounge, which spills out onto a wrap-around wooden deck, with gorgeous mountain views. There’s a well equipped communal kitchen, which doubles up as the social hub of McBains. Surrounding the communal spaces are the various rooms and cabins. Each of these are decorated and themed in a simple, creative style.

The free-standing cabins are all named after well-known authors: These are: Franklin (Franklin W. Dixon of Hardy Boys fame), which sleeps four and has a double and two single beds, plus a wooden deck with mountain views. Alongside is Jack (Jack Kerouac), a cozy little two-sleeper which has great views from it’s glass frontage. Jack and Franklin cabins share a central bathroom facility. Sylvia (Sylvia Plath) is a romantic two-sleeper, set away from the others and has a gorgeous outdoor bath. Last up on the cabins is Jonathan (Jonathan Saffron Foer), a five sleeper, well suited to a family, this one has a queen bed, bunk beds and a single bed. It also has a deck area and private outdoor bathroom.

Moving onto the rooms, which are dotted around the communal spaces. Enid Bunk Room is a dorm style room with three triple bunks and its own shower and loo next door - a great option for a bunch of kids sharing. Hunter sleeps two and shares a courtyard with Enid. It has a double bed and is a simple, sunny setup. Bob (named after Bob Dylan) has a luxurious queen bed and is close to the communal kitchen. There’s easy access to the downstairs deck with Sneeuberg Mountain views. Wilbur is another two sleeper with a self-catering kitchen and ensuite loo and shower. Last up is JK, a cozy family setup in the centre of the communal area, so ideal for the night owls, who don’t mind any late night vibes in the communal lounge or kitchen. All rooms and cabins are decked out with duvets, pillows, linen and towels.

In terms of exploring, the Bainskloof Pass is on your doorstep, as are the Limietberg Nature Reserve hikes, the epic Bobbejaans River waterfall and happy valley. Wellington and its restaurants and shops are a 15 minute drive away. There are also great MTB options towards the foot of the pass.

A great spot for a bunch of friends or a few families to get away from the urban rigors and kick back in an uber-relaxed environment. McBains might be a no frills, no nonsense kind of getaway, but one thing's for sure, this is a place you’re made to feel welcome.