A Hilltop Country Retreat
Swellendam, Western Cape
Snuggled on the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains, just above Swellendam, A Hilltop Country Retreat is country decadence in its various forms: lush green lawns, the herby fragrance of lavender permeating the air, a splash pool, stylish accommodation,...
Lilacs Cottage
Cape Peninsula & Surrounds, Western Cape
Tucked away on a quiet street, and about a kay from Bloubergstrand beach, Lilacs Cottage is a cosy garden cottage. Nicely decked with comfortable furnishings and fittings and daubed in the lavender theme, the unit is separate from the main house, with its o...
Riversong Farm
Stilbaai, Western Cape
Riversong Farm is your classic Huck Finn getaway. The gentle flow of the Goukou River easing through a lush valley, birdlife galore (hence the name) and the farm itself - a rural bliss spread over 175ha soft-combo-craggy landscape. Life happens around the ...
Rondeheuwel Guesthouse and Ouwerf Venue
Arniston (Waenhuiskrans), Western Cape
Having recently enjoyed a make-over, along with the addition of the new Ouwerf Venue, Rondeheuwel now makes the idyllic spot to head for for that big family function or birthday bash. The venue is a gorgeous blend of laid back farm style, with a vintage twis...
Spanspek se Plek
Swellendam, Western Cape
Spanspek has all the ingredients for a great weekend getaway: a chocolate box setting of manicured fields and vineyards merging into rugged fynbos-covered mountains, several farm dams, and a seven-pack of wholesome cottages. The accommodation comes in t...
Klipfontein Keep
Cape Agulhas & Struisbaai, Western Cape
Meticulously restored and framed by typical Overberg countryside of rolling wheat and canola, this gorgeous thatched farmhouse is ready and waiting 10km inland of Struisbaai and Agulhas. Deriving it’s name from the Middle English word “kype&rdq...
Breede River Queen
Malgas, Western Cape
Old Queen E and her entourage of corgis wouldn't scoff at this Breede River beauty. Especially not after the gushing feedback coming from the commoners who've already graced its halls. “We had such fun staying in the gorgeous, comfortable house.”...
Klein Nektar Cottage
Montagu, Western Cape
There’s not much more you could ask for from a getaway; in fact, Klein Nektar's appeal will leave you a little tongue-tired after reporting back on your successful Budget Getaways weekend mission. It sits neat and pretty against a backdrop of ra...
Littlestone Cottage
Mossel Bay, Western Cape
Tucked away on a shaded river bank backed by thick indigenous forest and dramatic kloofs and mountains behind that, Littlestone Cottage is one of those getaways that you and the fam will have no problem settling into for a night or five. This little gem sit...
Libertas Guest Farm
Wilderness, Western Cape
Occasionally ye old Captain Getaway stumbles across a gem that boldly ticks just about every box on the Show Me The Perfect Getaway show... Libertas Guest Farm near the Wilderness Lakes slots right into this category. It’s hard to say what’s mor...
Die Stal
Swellendam, Western Cape
The sweeping views from Die Stal towards Eenuurkop, Twaalfuurkop and Tienuurkop in Swellendam’s Hermitage Valley were once only appreciated by a few mooing cattle and their early morning milkers. Thankfully times have changed and you now have opportun...
Keurkloof Karoo Cottage
Matjiesfontein, Western Cape
Lying just off the N1 and only 10km from the pleasures of Matjiesfontein, Keurkloof is a massive Karoo farm offering a self-catering weekend at its soul-soothing best. A charming cottage, refurbished and decorated with a perfectionist's eye, is provided to...
De Melkportaal Cottage
Bredasdorp, Western Cape
Surrounded by gum trees and fronted by generous green irrigation fields, De Melkportaal Cottage is your go-to for a rustic-luxury weekend on a real macoy dairy farm in the Overberg. Starting with what to do while you're there, the options are the ...
Snyderskloof Karoo Cottage
Matjiesfontein, Western Cape
Just in from a happy visitor to this diamond in the Karoo dust: “Everything was perfect. If you just want to get away from the city, Snyderskloof’s got it all. No electricity, beautiful surroundings and very romantic.” As far as romantic,...
Wayside Inn
Wilderness, Western Cape
Hosting guests is nothing new at the Wayside Inn; in fact back in the late 1800’s this popular refuge saw many a weary traveller dismount, hang up the leathers and tuck into a hearty meal washed down by copious volumes of ale - or so we presume given t...
Rustfontein Guest Farm
Stilbaai, Western Cape
As far as group getaways go, you don't come closer to the ideal than this. Hugging the banks of the Goukou River and 14km upstream from Stilbaai, Rustfontein ("Fountain of Rest") is exactly that: a place to kickback, relax, and put aside those urban wor...
The Empire (unit M006)
Cape Peninsula & Surrounds, Western Cape
Taking a trip to the Mother City and need a comfy pad to hunker down for a night or two? Well then, this might be your spot. The Empire (unit M006) is right across from Muizenberg’s upbeat beachfront, with restaurants, coffee shops and oodles of surf ...
The Place
Ladismith, Western Cape
One hundred hectares of wide open Karoo vlakte, huge skies, the gentle flow of the Touw River, two finely-tuned accommodation options, gregarious hosts Kevin and Lizelle... The Place ticks a whole lot of getaway boxes that will appeal to a broad range of per...
Tree Spirit Cottage
Knysna, Western Cape
As the name suggests, here’s a getaway with plenty of spirit, coupled with a healthy dose of fresh forest air to rejuvenate those weary city bones. Nestled at the edge of the majestic Knysna forest at Gouna, Tree Spirit Cottage embodies the whol...
Numbi Valley Permaculture Farm
De Rust, Western Cape
Dozing under Karoo skies 12km from De Rust in the Swartberg foothills, Numbi Valley Permaculture Farm is a fusion of rural surrounds and organic lifestyle. The lovingly restored cottage, with its roughly plastered walls and solar energy, is the jewel in th...
Blomerus Guest Farm
Gansbaai, Western Cape
Trawling the big bad Net for Blomerus Guest Farm reviews reveals a whole lot of super content travellers, who have nothing but high praise for the place. To summarise our research.. 1. It’s big: “What a lovely house - a mansion I would say...
Fairways Luxury Apartment
Mossel Bay, Western Cape
The guest comments pretty much sum it up: “Wow!” say a couple on a golfing trip. “Excellence in a nutshell,” says another. "Very friendly hostess, good value for money, private and fantastic setting," says Ria. Clearly, Fairways...
Goedvertrou Guest Farm
Stanford, Western Cape
Gracing the gentle slopes of the Overberg hills and off a farm road 25km from Stanford, Goedvertrou Guest Farm is the quintessential rustic country escape. The farm itself is a working dairy farm (fresh farm milk and rusks await you on arrival), circled by ...
Klipspringer
McGregor, Western Cape
Best we set the record straight before we get cracking on this one: those new low-profiles on your Corsa bakkie ain’t going to cut the mustard here. Klipspringer on the Groot Toren mountain top requires a suitable 4x4 with good ground clearance just to...
Long Thin Farm
Stilbaai, Western Cape
Long Thin Farm overlooks the Goukou River, 13km from Stilbaai. And, judging by the gushing guest feedback, it looks like a Budget gem in the making... On offer are two self-catering cottages, both above a beautiful stretch of idylli...
Wavesong
St Helena Bay, Western Cape
There’s little standing in the way of you and the beach at Wavesong in St Helena Bay. In fact, a short jaunt down the dune path and you’re wriggling your toes in the sand. Wavesong is a well-appointed home with gorgeous Atlantic vistas from just...
Thorn & Feather
Vermaaklikheid, Western Cape
You know you're onto something good when you pry open the tap and the glowing reviews come flowing fast and furious. “Thorn & Feather is the perfect escape...” “The perfect place to get away from it all...” “What a magical p...
McGregor Welgedaan Farmhouse
McGregor, Western Cape
On a farm tucked into the foothills of the McGregor mountains, the rustic and no-nonsense McGregor Welgedaan Farmhouse looks like a chilled stay for family, friends, or couples (with or without Fido in tow, as it's pooch-friendly). What’s more, Welgda...
Rustic Hideaways @ De Werf Country Estate
Hermanus, Western Cape
Beautifully positioned amidst the rolling hills of the Hemel en Aarde Valley, Rustic Hideaways not only lies within easy reach of Hermanus, but is also within easy strike of a platter of quality wine estates, good mountain bike trails and some gobsmacking sc...
Van Zylsrust Country House
Bonnievale, Western Cape
This is the ideal group getaway. Combining a mix of several architectural styles - a bit of old Cape Dutch, a bit of Victorian - the house was built in the late 1920s. It's a real macoy traditional farmhouse, combining a total of six bedrooms and t...
Bergen Dam Cottage
Bredasdorp, Western Cape
Bergen Dam is a very nicely renovated worker's cottage sitting stoksiel alone on the foothills of the Soetmuisberg mountains. The uninterrupted views spilling out from all sides of the cottage include wide open stretches of undulating veld, low-slung mount...
Boschkloof Farm Cottages
Citrusdal, Western Cape
Fringed by a rush of orange groves and oak and poplar trees, Boschkloof offers two upmarket farm cottages squeezed between folded mountains. With the Cedarberg Wilderness Area as its immediate neighbour, the farm is a most appealing combination of the...
Fisaasbos se Huis
Tulbagh, Western Cape
Dozing among the foothills of the Klein Winterhoek mountains (13km from Tulbagh), Fisaasbos se Huis sounds like your classic thatched farm cottage/house: you know, that archetypal fantasy of ancient oak trees, the sweet smell of thatch, soft views down a lon...
Oakhurst Farm
Wilderness, Western Cape
Sitting high above the Wilderness Lakes in rural Hoekwil, Oakhurst Farm has got the getaway recipe down to a tee: Plenty of good ol’ farm fun, clean country air, and a platter of rustic-luxury accommodation that will knock your socks off. The Fo...
At Rivers Edge
Stanford, Western Cape
You’ve just finished Peter Mayle's In Provence… a small French village, rambling countryside, a picturesque cottage under moss-covered terracotta, children skipping around the garden, lilting laughter following in their wake… Good...
Bonfrutti
Bonnievale, Western Cape
Situated at the foot of the dramatic Langeberg mountains, off the R60 between Montagu and Swellendam, Bonfrutti offers wholesome country living on a fruit and wine farm, with oodles of fresh country air and clear mountain streams, topped off with c...
Fountainbush Cottage
Gansbaai, Western Cape
Here’s a new Overberg getaway that has "Take me!" splashed all over it. With attention to simple detail, a decent price tag, plenty of farm action for the kids, oodles of comfort for the folks, this natty abode appears to offer that perfect rural-cut-...
Kouga Wildernis
Baviaanskloof, Eastern Cape
Now here’s a getaway where you can really escape in the true sense of the word - over 3000ha of historic Langkloof farm bordering the majestic Baviaanskloof Mega Reserve, 28 kays from Joubertina. Kouga Wildernis has been farmed by the Ferre...
Aloe Canyons Guestfarm and Wildlife
Swellendam, Western Cape
Off the beaten track and tucked along the banks of a river - with an outlook over rugged hills - Aloe Canyons Guest Farm and Wildlife is nature lovers territory. The river forms the focus here - a sluggish serpent of water that's created a canyon-type lands...
Clouds End Cottages
Hermanus, Western Cape
Clouds End Farm (11km from Hermanus) gets its name from the wisp of cloud that so often blankets the tallest peak of Babylon’s Toring. Not only might this creamy wisp be a familar sight on your weekend visit, but so will the awesome mountain views and...
De Wilge
Worcester & Hex Valley, Western Cape
Let’s dive right into the guest book on this one: “Rural luxury.” “This is an absolutely beautiful place to be.” “Gorgeous luxury decor.” “The accommodation is superb, the scenery beautiful.” You get the ...
Elephant Rest Forest Cottages
Knysna, Western Cape
Down the Rheenendal road and nibbling a fringe of gorgeous Knysna forest, this pair of timber abodes on a smallholding has already generated its share of gushing feedback. But two examples: “Go for yourself, you won’t be disappointed!” &ldq...
Excelsior Guest Farm
Porterville, Western Cape
Excelsior Guest Farm offers everything an old-style family farm holiday should. Simple and comfy accommodation, lots to keep you busy (and not so busy) and plenty of space and soft touches for the gang to unwind in. Let’s set the scene... 1. A s...
Ladera-Vista
Paarl, Western Cape
Sitting on the outskirts of Paarl, up against the Paarlberg and its soothing views down the Paarl valley and Drakenstein Mountains beyond, this well-appointed guesthouse offers a homely and comfortable atmosphere, with plenty of welcoming communal living spa...
Maple Grove
Hogsback, Eastern Cape
Finding a spot to hunker down in the wilds of Hogsback can be a little like walking the labyrinth - you could end up going round in circles. Hello, Maple Grove - your near ideal Amatola retreat just three kays on from the village centre. Snooping ar...
Paardenberg Farm Cottages
Stanford, Western Cape
Only 15km from Stanford, privately appointed and circled by magnificent Overberg views, Paardenberg offers homely traditional farm ambience and a useful springboard to the surrounding area. Easy access to picnic spots, hikes in the veld, good mou...
Sons of the King Guesthouse
De Rust, Western Cape
Sons of the King Guesthouse is a typical simple dorpshuis on a quiet backstreet in De Rust. Sporting a rambling garden with fruit trees and pleasantly decorated interior, the house has traditonal high ceilings (to counter that Karoo heat), and oodles o...
The Blue House
Stanford, Western Cape
Sitting in front of that grey screen dreamin' about that idyllic weekend escape? A place where gran and gramps are happy to tag along, where the clan can run free in a lawned garden, where you can sneak out the front door and in true Paleolithic tradition hu...
Geelbos Cottage
Greyton, Western Cape
Geelbos Cottage is a secluded renovated labourer's cottage on a typical Overberg farm at the foot of the Kleinswartberg mountain. This white tin-roofed cottage lies about 1km from the main homestead and consists of two bedrooms and a sm...
Lazy Leopard Forest Retreat
Knysna, Western Cape
Situated just off the scenic Rheenendal country road, Lazy Leopard offers three very appealing options: two romantic 'bush huts' called Forest Moon and Starry Forest and the larger Blue Hills Cottage. Forest Moon and Starry Forest are open-plan, ...
Mountain Mist
Betty's Bay, Western Cape
Far from your run-of-the-mill damp and weather-beaten beach shack, Mountain Mist is a spacious group getaway with a touch of colonial, dollops of feel-good luxury, and a chilled holiday atmosphere. Set in open fynbos at the foot of the Kogelberg in Betty&r...
Die Houthuis, Die Wyntenke & A Snoozer's Cottage
Bonnievale, Western Cape
As far as rustic weekend getaways go, Die Houthuis is the last of a dying breed – a place where not even Triple-X Gel can keep the hair up. It’s the oldest getaway in Bonnievale, dating back to 1968 when the Milnerton Jewish Guild sold what was t...
Langrug Lodge
Cape Agulhas & Struisbaai, Western Cape
Nearly a decade on the block and we have finally discovered a perfect reason to spend an entire weekend on the southern tip of Africa: Langrug Lodge. The brochure calls it “a perfect peace (sic) of Africa,” and for once, the blurb is spot on &n...
Matjiesvlei Guest Farm
Calitzdorp, Western Cape
Now, here's a farm spilling rich history and Karoo character. Matjiesvlei goes right back to 1821 and has been in the same bloodline ever since - today it's farmed by 5th generation Bennie Nel and his wife, Selma, and judging by their towering sons, the bato...
Petersfield Mountain Cottages
Citrusdal, Western Cape
Both Dassieklip Luxury Farm Cottage and De Kom Mountain Cottage have become something of legends on the self-catering map – thanks in no small part to a mix of great setting, attention to detail, and a professional (yet relaxed) host. So successfu...
Middeldam Plaashuis
Bredasdorp, Western Cape
It started seven generations ago with the first Uys arriving at Middeldam, unpacking the wagon and trying his luck with a spot of farming. His efforts paid off, 'cause today the Uys family is still firmly rooted at this very spot, with farming still running ...
Ratelpost Guest Farm
Stilbaai, Western Cape
Don’t even bother packing that 200 Terabyte hardrive or those Excel spreadsheets your boss is breathing down your neck for - Ratelpost simply isn’t the place for reminders of the nasty outside world. In fact, you’re not going to need...
Tanagra Wine & Guest Farm
McGregor, Western Cape
Let's cut straight to the chase with a few choice quotes posted on that little known website called Tripadvisor. “Lovely place, exceptional hosts, don't miss it!”; “Couldn't ask for more.”; “We loved our stay, wonderful on all l...
Breede Escape
Bonnievale, Western Cape
A Zulu camp on the Breede River is one way to describe this excellent group getaway, comprising two separate River Camps with mini reed-and-thatch rondawels and a lapa. The River Camps can accommodate a tribe of 24 and 16, respectively. The ...
Britannia Beach Self-catering Accommodation
St Helena Bay, Western Cape
You’ll find this sparkling two-bedroomed apartment along a palm-lined avenue called Golden Mile Boulevard, in Britannia Bay. Although technically on the beach, the whale’s share of sea-view is taken up by your host’s house. This is not...
Klondyke Cherry Farm
Ceres, Western Cape
Yep, a real cherry farm in our backyard, in unspoilt mountain country 30km from Ceres. The landscape is alluring and the cottages have good potential, but there is a health warning attached: Klondyke alternates between a wilderness getaway and Adderley Str...
Wild Olive Guest Farm
Stilbaai, Western Cape
This is one tranquil getaway. A 140ha property, where olives, organic fruit and veg grow amidst bushy hills, green pastures and the idyllic Goukou River, Wild Olive offers two timber chalets with decks and open views across the water, and an historic cottage...
Dreamcatcher
Tulbagh, Western Cape
How about a slow jaunt through wine country, a weekend swigging back some of the Cape's finest merlots and chenins, a backdrop of impressive scenery, historic sights and decent dining under ancient oaks? Add to your weekend of sniffing and spitting an eleg...
Fossil Hills Farm Accommodation
McGregor, Western Cape
Up for a few days in the fossil-filled koppies of McGregor? Fossil Hills Cottage, Aloe Cottage, Lavender Cottage and Pinotage House on Thornvilla Wine Farm could be your spot - a nice mix of simple comfort, adventure and tranquillity. Lying a secluded ...
Suikerbossie Guest Farm
Ceres, Western Cape
Suikerbossie has evolved in massive leaps and bounds since the Captain Getaway and his trusty hound, the Budget Brak, first visited a few years ago. What started out as a rough and ready experience is now the ‘safari getaway’ of the Koue Bokkevel...
Lancewood TiPi Lodge
Robertson, Western Cape
Fifteen kays from Robertson and tucked into the slopes of the Langeberg Mountains on a 12ha tract of fertile farming land, Lancewood TiPi Lodge is a down-to-earth escape from the usual city humdrum. Circled by pretty surrounds crammed with hiking and mounta...
Phillipskop Mountain Reserve
Stanford, Western Cape
Phillipskop covers 250ha of gorgeous fynbos on the slopes of the Klein River Mountains. Access is via a short gravel road, 13 kays from Stanford. With soothing vistas across the Overberg and Akkedisberg, this is a getaway where you can really unwind. A...
Night Sky Caravan Farm
Bonnievale, Western Cape
Situated on a wine farm 17km from Bonnievale (and 34km from Robertson) Night Sky offers the hardy weekender a nicely laid out campsite and six Wendyhouse-style timber chalets, both arranged around a pretty farm dam and backdropped by the Rivie...
Blue Gum Cottages
Bonnievale, Western Cape
About 5km out of Bonnievale, Blue Gum Cottages is a laid-back and family-friendly spot with two cottages spread along the banks of the Breede. First off is Blue Gum Cottage itself - a private and rustic cottage tucked, as the name suggests, in the sh...
Forget-Me-Not
Pringle Bay, Betty's Bay and Kleinmond, Western Cape
Looking for a functional, yet relaxed and comfortable spot in Kleinmond? Forget-Me-Not ticks the boxes. This double-story is situated within a short walk down to Kleinmond’s long Blue Flag beach. With two double bedrooms, the house is suited to a fa...
River Edge Accommodation
Ceres, Western Cape
You’ve been living life on the edge lately - late boozy nights, work deadlines, domestic chaos, the general humdrum of life in the fast lane. Maybe what you need is a change of edge to hang out on? In this case it's River Edge, a tranquil escape with...
Bronze Grove Farm
Barrydale, Western Cape
A mere 2km from Barrydale and tucked into a corner of the Langeberg foothills that incorporates a chunk of the scenic Tradouw Pass, Bronze Grove Farm will appeal to couples and families looking for an exclusive self-catering escape. River Ikhaya (...
Matzikamma
Bonnievale, Western Cape
A 30ha farm framed by the majestic Langeberg Mountain Range – Matzikamma is a well-rounded package offering two cottages in a serene setting. As such it’s a perfect getaway for both families and couples, within easy reach of Bonnievale, Swellenda...
Orchard Cottage
McGregor, Western Cape
Finally, a getaway that's both romantic and kiddie-friendly. Dozing on the edge of the village, Orchard takes the shape of a storybook thatch cottage set in a lush garden and apricot orchard, with sandpit, swing, seesaw and jungle gym all right on han...
Die Hoenderhok & Plaashuisie
Swellendam, Western Cape
Pastoral bliss and a skyline dominated by the jagged peaks of the Langeberg are surely sufficient reason for a stop-over near (12km) Swellendam? Be it a midway break between mother city and Garden Route, or simply an excuse to get into the countryside, Die ...
Simonskloof Mountain Retreat
Montagu, Western Cape
Described in the brochure as “your-down-to-earth-mountain-retreat”, Simonskloof is special – thanks to a remote setting and lovingly-restored accommodation. Access to Simonskloof is courtesy of a rough farm road jutting off the gorgeous Koo...
Assegai Rest
Robertson, Western Cape
Fifteen kays from Robertson and tucked at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains on a 12ha tract of fertile farming land, Assegai Rest is a down-to-earth escape from your usual humdrum of city traffic and yapping neighbourhood pooches. Circled by pretty surrou...
Cape Point Cottage and Villa, Simon's Town
Cape Peninsula & Surrounds, Western Cape
Cape Point Cottage comes pretty close to fitting the fantasy weekend cottage. What's more, you don't need to drive forever and a day to live the dream. Situated just five minutes (by car) from the front gate of Cape Point Nature Reserve and 7km along ...
Klein Watervalplaas
Caledon, Western Cape
Geez, talk about setting the bar high! If the gushing and poetic feedback we've received on Klein Watervalplaas is anything to go by, this new getaway spot in the Hemel en Aarde Valley is a Budget gem in the making. For the full unabridged versions ch...
La Folie Cottages
Wellington, Western Cape
Nothing like a spot of impulsive folly to get them life-affirming endorphins flowing. And here's your catalyst - three romantic cottages on an olive and wine farm below the Hawequas mountains 3km outside Wellington. The cottages, La Folie Green, L...
Tarentaalkraal Farm Cottage
Greyton, Western Cape
The scene is typically Overberg: rolling grain fields disappearing into a hazy horizon cropped by fynbos-coated mountains. The farm’s touted attractions include vast tracts of unspoilt nature for walking, hiking, bird and animal watching, and a ri...
Goedereede Guest Farm
Robertson, Western Cape
Now under new ownership, Goedereede is a family-oriented getaway 8km from Robertson, with a total of five 3-star (SA Tourism) graded cottages. You’ll find two of these alongside a cute farm dam and a further three options next to the ma...
Peet se Plek
Bonnievale, Western Cape
A longstanding gem in the Budget crown, Peet offers accommodation in two highly appealing forms: Peet se Plek and it's annex Pondok, and Die Ou Waenhuis. Peet se Plek is the fantasy of 'quaint rustic cottage on river' made...
The Potting Shed Accommodation
Hermanus, Western Cape
Fact: At some point or another everyone suffers from the Hermanus itch... Be it the chance of getting up close and personal with the barnacles of a Southern Right whale, sitting at a pavement cafe watching half of Cape Town drift by, chilling under a ...
Mooi Bly
Paarl, Western Cape
Like your friendly host says, "Mooi Bly is not a 5-Star hotel, but it's very nice and peaceful for those who like to be in the countryside between vineyards and a beautiful garden." On offer at this pleasant spot that's just a short N1 cruise from Cap...
Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
Swellendam, Western Cape
Somerset Gift Getaway Farm nestles in a beautiful valley bordering the foothills of the majestic Langeberg Mountains, just 16km from Swellendam. Combining an idyllic and peaceful setting, with stunning mountain views and green pastures dotted with Hereford...
Arendsig Farmhouse
Robertson, Western Cape
With majestic mountains rising up in the distance, and circled by green grass, vineyards, plum, apricot and peach trees, Arendsig appears to offer a most pleasant stay. And unlike some of the scary places we have come across on our travels into the dark inte...
Barn Owl Farm
Ladismith, Western Cape
The charm of this organically-styled ex-barn lies not only in the fact that many moons back it housed farming implements and livestock, but that its quirky charm has been lovingly carried over into the present. A generous dollop of modern day comfort has als...
Blommekloof Country Cottages
Mossel Bay, Western Cape
Sixteen hectares of lush mountain paradise along the off-the-beaten track Robinson Pass, Blommekloof offers two farm cottages, the renovated and spacious Old Cottage and a recently completed and off-the-grid eco abode known as Sunflower Cottage. Both are pe...
Babylon's Tower Cottage & Shepherd's Hut
Hermanus, Western Cape
Big on farm vibe and gob-smacking mountain vistas, this one will have you in it's grip in no time. Whether you're opting for the Cottage's long voorstoep spilling gentle Hemel en Aarde vistas, an elegant understated interior of muted tones, exposed beams and...
The Little Farmhouse
Stanford, Western Cape
Seven kays from Stanford and tucked away in a private wind-free glade, you wouldn't say the Little Farmhouse is out-the-box new - because on aura and attention to traditional detail it feels like it's been around for a lot longer. The cottage is ...
5 Camp Street Self-Catering, City Bowl
Cape Peninsula & Surrounds, Western Cape
This fairly new establishment located just off Cape Town's happening Kloof Street is a a good-value option with an accompanying package of convenient bells and whistles. 5 Camp Street features both a guesthouse (which can be taken as a self-catering whole)...
Boesmansdrift Farmhouse
Bonnievale, Western Cape
From Boesmansdrift's guestbook... "Thank you for a wonderful weekend. It was such a treat to relax in this beautiful place. Your little touches made us feel welcome – we wanted to stay for the whole week!" "A true hidden treasure! Even though...
Uitkyk Guest Farm
Swellendam, Western Cape
Country living doesn’t get much much easier than Uitkyk Guest Farm. Oodles of space both in and outside this stylish abode, a lovely pool, plenty to do on the farm itself, soothing views over the Overberg grain fields and Langeberg beyond… Wow! ...
Asher Riverside Cottages
Bonnievale, Western Cape
Fast becoming an established kid on the Bonnievale block, Asher (meaning ‘blessed’) has a growing following. And the reason is clear to see. It occupies one of the best spots along the Breede River - a broad stretch of tranquil water, flanked by ...
Rivierplaas Cottages
Swellendam, Western Cape
River House and Stone Cottage are secluded cottages appointed on a fruit farm along the banks of the Breede River. Both have a relaxed rustic personality suited to Budget weekenders with Huckleberry Finn leanings. River House is the more basic of the two &...
Bibi's Joy
Swellendam, Western Cape
Let’s set the tone with a recent guest comment: “If you need peace and tranquility away from the city bustle, this is the place to go. Rustic, comfortable, serene... after one day you don't want to leave.” Another one: "It...
Bordeaux River Cottages
Bonnievale, Western Cape
Surrounded by orchards and vineyards in the broad Breede River valley, and eight kilometers from Bonnievale, lies the farm Bordeaux and its three rustic timber cottages. It's the type of weekend spot you’ll find yourself lazing about on your wooden de...
Rhodene Farm Cottages
Ceres, Western Cape
A laid-back fruit farm below the jagged Skurweberg mountains outside Ceres, Rhodene offers a ten-pack of accommodation, among it a fullblown farmhouse and three cottages, two of these tucked alongside the farm’s packshed and offering views of the ...
Boskloof Forest Cabin
Robertson, Western Cape
Part of the wider Assegai Rest family, you'll find Boskloof Forest Cabin tucked under a secluded Alabama-style thicket of trees at the end of the Assegai Rest farm road (high clearance vehicle recommended). It’s all about blissful isolation and g...
Kruisrivier Gallery Apartment
Calitzdorp, Western Cape
The setting? Gorgeous Klein Karoo, minus the harsh edges: early morning cows on their way to be milked, the sounds of phlegmatic tractors and the occasional farm bakkie; open vistas of tobacco fields and the looming Swartberg peaks. Your hosts? Phyllis, a ...
Apricot Farm
Bonnievale, Western Cape
This looks like a lovely weekend spot - a cosy timber cabin on a working farm circled by green lawns and newly planted plum trees, with an outlook over the vineyards and distant Langeberg mountains. Stepping past the deck, inside it's all cosy sweet-smellin...
Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve
Montagu, Western Cape
It started off with an idea for a romantic weekend for just the two of you. But then the troops and your buddies got wind of it, who in turn informed gran and gramps… And now your sister’s just called to say that her three hooligans are strapped...
UnderHill Farm
Grabouw & Elgin Valley, Western Cape
An easy-to-reach bolthole from the Mother City, UnderHill Farm offers a soothing setting under giant oak trees and a poplar-lined river bank. Totally off-grid and solar-powered, the farm lies just off the Van der Stel Pass, 17 kays from Botrivier village an...
River Magic Cottages
Vermaaklikheid, Western Cape
The name isn’t an exaggeration – both the setting and the gorgeous abodes, Backtrack, Glory Be, Base Huis, and Deck Plek are magical. Set 300m from the river, Backtrack is an architecturally-styled stone, thatch and glass cottage in a tranq...
Rockhaven Farm
Porterville, Western Cape
Like a number of surrounding getaways, Rockhaven has the unfair advantage of being nestled among the spectacular Groot Winterhoek mountains. In this case, two comfortable cottages (Protea and Erica) with very reasonable price tags provide your weekend lodgin...
Beyond the Moon Guest Farm
Wilderness, Western Cape
This beautiful spot in the majestic Outeniqua’s is no Dark Side of the Moon. In fact, a few days at Beyond the Moon Guest Farm is guaranteed to bring back the sparkle and have you, err... shining on like a crazy diamond. Spread across 24ha of lush gr...
Aloe Cottage
Darling, Western Cape
Located within a small fynbos estate of ten houses on the outskirts of the village, Aloe Cottage offers arguably the best views and, rand for rand, the most luxurious self-catering stay in Darling. Hogging a good position at the edge of the estate, th...
BakenOord
Bonnievale, Western Cape
Four newly renovated cottages nestled in rural surrounds among citrus trees and grape vines, 10 kays from Bonnievale, mountain views, a farm dam for swimming, the river right at hand, enough tranquillity all round, Bakenoord ticks a lot of weekend boxes.&nbs...
Haarwegskloof Renosterveld Reserve
Bredasdorp, Western Cape
Located in a remote area midships between Swellendam and Bredasdorp (40km), your accommodation at this WWF-owned nature reserve comes in the form of a converted milking shed. Accommodating a total six guests, Haarwegskloof combines thick mud-...
Leopard Trail Guestfarm
Bonnievale, Western Cape
Perched high on the Langeberg slopes, Leopard Trail Guestfarm offers an action-packed nature weekend. Walks, hikes, kloofing, mountain biking and three 4x4 trails, six farm dams for swimming and fishing, educational tours of the farm and mountain, herds of...
Stone Stables
Darling, Western Cape
The origins of this funky and romantic getaway stem back to 1925, when it served (as the name implies), as a stable and then as a jail, mopping up the overflow from the local prison! Evidence of this colourful history can still be ...
Waterfalls
Hermanus, Western Cape
Waterfalls is a rambling thatched house, 10km downstream from Stanford and a similar distance upstream from Hermanus. It is also the stuff of happy holidays, past and present. Lying across the way from host Elspeth and Richard’s home and surrounded by...
The Fisherman's Cottage
Gansbaai, Western Cape
The Fisherman's Cottage is a neat abode set a mere 200m from the crashing waves at Pearly Beach - a smallish holiday enclave 20km up the way from Gansbaai. Best thing about Fisherman's are the views - lots of them, spilling out from the livingro...
Koensrust Sea Farm
Vermaaklikheid, Western Cape
A question we often ask yourselves at the BG office: Why the heck do we share Budget gems like this with the general public? When deep down our conscience tells us to report the file lost, slip it into a dossier labelled "Urgent Work To Do" and hide it under...
Eikebos Campsite
Greyton, Western Cape
Appointed on a working farm 4km off the R406 between Caledon and Greyton, Eikebos offers a picturesque and intimate camping experience. With a grand total of seven stands, all shaded by majestic oak trees and circled by open views of rolling farmland and t...
Arendsig Self-Catering Cottages
Robertson, Western Cape
A mere 300m from the Arendsig Cellar and tasting rooms, on a working wine and fruit farm near Robertson, Arendsig Self-catering Cottages offer tranquil vistas over the vineyards and orchards, with the sluggish waters of the Breede River nearby. The five far...
The Goat Shed
Napier, Western Cape
Like the name suggests, this humble little flat-roofed structure was once home to a pampered herd of goats. It's come a little way since and chances are the original residents wouldn't recognise their old kraal - today it's an elegant weekend refuge featuri...
Swaynekloof Farm
Caledon, Western Cape
Here’s a fuel-friendly escape from the Mother City - a laid-back farm 5km from Botrivier that ticks most boxes for a family or group of friends. Besides easy proximity to Cape Town, what we have here is 149ha of prime real estate tucked into the gentl...
The River Siding
Ceres, Western Cape
The River Siding is a page from a children’s fairytale. It is also a page from a recurring suburban fantasy: “Once upon a time a harassed couple from the city dreamt about a romantic escape on a river...” Tucked under towering trees and v...
Rocky Pools
Betty's Bay, Western Cape
Rocky Pools is a far cry from some of the face-brick monstrosities along this stretch of the coast. As far as beach houses go, it sits way near the top of the pile – tasteful design, unobstructed views, and an uncluttered interior befitting the ideal...
Elands Bay Guesthouse
Elands Bay, Western Cape
Finding decent accommodation in Elands Bay is like finding the proverbial needle in a haystack. For the moment don’t even bother looking at the paltry alternatives – head straight to Elands Bay Guesthouse. Backdropped by mountain, and with neig...
Arum Lily & Aloe Cottage
Stanford, Western Cape
Lying 9km from Stanford, on a small working farm of vineyards, springbuck, a bonsai nursery and dams stocked with trout, black bass and tilapia, Arum Lily Cottage and Aloe Cottage are a pair of rustic cottages framed by beautiful views of the Kleinrivie...
Corgi Park
Stanford, Western Cape
Stylish, spacious and charming, with lawns nibbling the banks of the Klein River, Corgi Park is a three-bedroom home on the outskirts of Stanford village - a kinda getaway the urban monarchs and their trusty pooches will feel quite at home in. On the s...
River Farm Cottage
Citrusdal, Western Cape
If seclusion, off-the-grid living (no Eskom), and total escape from humanity are high on your wishlist, then River Farm Cottage has your name written all over it! This wonderful cottage sits in the shadow of towering Cederberg cliffs, with the Threeriv...
Rooiheuwel Noord
Caledon, Western Cape
Rooiheuwel-Noord is a sheep and dairy farm found off a pleasant dirt road cutting through green folded pastures. Set on a hill below an impressive mountain, the guest cottages are a close-knit group of three renovated labourer dwellings - so think abo...
Enjo Nature Farm
Clanwilliam & Cederberg, Western Cape
The philosophy at Enjo Nature Farm is a simple one: Escape, breathe, relax and chill. Not a difficult undertaking when the surrounding scenery leaves your mouth hanging open at every turn. From mountain peaks to natural springs, fynbos galore to night skie...
Fairfield Mountain Cottages
Ceres, Western Cape
Fairfield takes the form of three tastefully renovated cottages at the foot of a serrated wall of rock that's draped in a sheet of cascading water in winter. A relatively new getaway, Fairfield has now come into its own. The area around the cottages has de...
Kranskloof Country Lodge
Oudtshoorn, Western Cape
When last did you join the hordes at the Cango Caves, wrestle a croc and snap that obligatory pic of the missus perched upon an ostrich egg - praying for her sake it doesn't shatter under the load? If the kids are itching to see the Caves, and you wan...
Desert Wind Private Game Farm
Montagu, Western Cape
A few choice guest snippets to get our wordy review of Desert Wind rolling… "For me Desert Wind Private Game Farm really is the ultimate getaway. I love the vast open spaces of untouched raw natural beauty that surrounds the farm… The ho...