When it comes to self-catering holiday accommodation in South Africa, the spectrum is vast. In this post we shine the spotlight on some wonderful hidden gems that you may not know about – places that offer stylish self-catering to discerning do-it-yourself guests. A little luxury – or a lot – is what defines these self-catering getaways in South Africa.
KWA-ZULU-NATAL
Umzinyathi is a wonderful self-catering farmhouse retreat in the Rorke’s Drift area of KwaZulu-Natal. It forms part of Fugitives’ Drift Lodge, well known for its warm hospitality, phenomenal battlefield tours and contributions to heritage tourism. The farmhouse has 3 en-suite bedrooms and accommodates up to 6 people. There is a lounge with fireplace, dining room, kitchen and large verandah. Mail us.
In addition to its bed and breakfast accommodation, Lythwood Lodge in the Midlands of KwaZulu-Natal has some 2-bedroom self-catering cottages, complete with open-plan kitchen, en-suite facilities, lounge, air-conditioning, fireplace, outside patio and braai facilities. Rates, Availability & Online Bookings.
WESTERN CAPE
Nature-lovers wanting to self-cater would make a good choice to book accommodation in De Hoop Nature Reserve. There’s a lot to do: watch whales in season; enjoy mountain biking; eco quad biking; guided bird and fynbos walk; marine walk; stargazing; art workshops; the Elim wine route; various children’s activities; beach walks and swimming in rock pools. Mail us.
Surrounded by the vineyards of Franschhoek, La Cotte Forest Cottages are a great choice for a luxury self-catering holiday. There are one- and two-bedroom cottages available, which boast some charming features of farm-style lodgings. All have their own patios from which to enjoy the views. Mail us.
Montpellier Wine Estate has a tranquil setting in the Tulbagh Valley, along the banks of the Klein Berg River. Annex House, Constantia House and Cottages, and Rietdakkies are all available for self-catering stays. Accommodation is rustic and has a charming Cape Dutch character. The estate offers wine tasting, walking, horse riding and tranquil leisure at the pool deck. Mail us.
GARDEN ROUTE
Fynbos Ridge is beautifully situated in a nature reserve on the edge of Plettenberg Bay. Accommodation options include a few very comfortable self-catering cottages which are well equipped and surrounded by nature in all her glory. Rates, Availability & Online Bookings.
The Lofts Boutique Hotel in Knysna has one self-catering unit, accommodating four people on two levels. The hotel is situated on Thesen Island on the edge of the lagoon, an idyllic position for laid-back island living. The Lofts Atrium is a trendy space in which to enjoy cocktails, craft beers, wines, coffees and snacks. Rates, Availability & Online Bookings.
EASTERN CAPE
Cape St Francis Beach Breaks are a cluster of 5* villas that have 4 or 5 bedrooms, open-plan living areas, private decks and swimming pools. The beach and ocean at Cape St Francis are on the doorstep. Mail us.
In Jeffreys bay, On The Beach provides mainly guesthouse accommodation, but in addition to that there also two self-catering suites, each suitable for a maximum of four adults and one child. These suites are air-conditioned and have beach and sea views, comfy living areas, kitchenette, braai facilities and two bedrooms. Rates, Availability & Online Bookings.
There are three self-catering chalets at Broughton Country Estate, a tranquil haven adjoining a nature reserve in Port Elizabeth’s lush Collen Glen. Each chalet has an open-plan lounge and dining area and well-equipped kitchen. Two of the cottages have two bedrooms, and the other has one bedroom. There are braai facilities at each chalet, and covered veranda with views over a dam. Mail us.
NORTHERN CAPE
Set in the Spektakelberg between Springbok and Kleinzee in the Northern Cape, Naries Namakwa Retreat is set amid the breathtaking scenery of Namaqualand. There are two cottages available to self-caterers, each with two bedrooms, indoor braai / fireplace, outdoor braai and equipped kitchen. These cottages have lovely mountain views. Rates, Availability & Online Bookings.
Mail us for information and bookings, or call 0860 102 907 (local) or +27 21 797 7122.