Moon Shine on Whiskey Creek

Budget Getaways Review

You will find this haven of creative calm tucked among indigenous forest high above Whiskey Creek gorge, in a pictureque area known as the Crags. 

No two ways about it, Moon Shine will knock your socks off. Created from scratch and managed by your friendly hosts Albert and Sue Brohm, the five handcrafted timber cottages are the product of an inspiring labour of love.

Perched on stilts under dappled light, the aptly named Firefly and Bushpig sleep two, Tree Frog sleeps four to six, and the ever popular Vervet and its funky shower tower, sleeps six.

Recently added to the clan is the gorgeous Fly Me to The Moon. This romantic gem is tailored entirely for romantic couples. Secluded and high in forest canopy, you have to experience it firsthand to believe it. (Parking for this unit is a short walk away.)

All five cottages embody the same minute attention to personal detail, comfort and privacy. Pitched timber ceilings, elevated decks, braai areas on terra firma, mini Queen Anne fireplaces in Firefly, Bushpig and Fly Me to The Moon, open fireplaces in Tree Frog and Vervet (lovingly chopped wood provided), comfortable mattresses and duvets, welcoming sweet chilli sauce, candles and flowers, handpainted fabrics and beautiful Tsitsikamma views through a gap in the forest...

But it doesn't stop there... Can't bear to miss the next Currie Cup final? Bushpig and Vervet come decked with select channel DSTV.

Coming down to earth a little, Butterfly is a cosy garden cottage with its own piece de resistance: an arty mosaic and glass shower. Butterfly sleeps five and is suited to families, sufferers of vertigo and weak knees. The cottage also has DSTV and free WiFi.

Keeping busy at Moon Shine is easy. Plett, Nature's Valley, the Keurbooms River are all a short drive away. The Crags has also become a destination in its own right, with several wildlife centres and a number of wineries that produce a fine bubbly.

On the property itself, there's a forest walk, kiddies playground and communal swimming pool. All guests also have access to free WiFi at the Internet & Info Lounge.

“This is our best accommodation in South Africa,” crows one happy Moon Shine on Whiskey Creek guest. We won't argue the point.