Top 20 Mountain Cabins in the Cape

The Western Cape of South Africa boasts an array of mountain cabin retreats, each offering a unique blend of tranquility, natural beauty, and modern comforts. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, these cabins provide the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.​

For quick reference, here’s a summary of the top mountain cabin escapes in the Cape:

1. Suidster

Location: Near Montagu​

Distance from Cape Town: Approximately 2.5 hours​

Sleeps: 2​

Starting Price per Night: R2,950​

Highlights:

• Off-grid barn-like cottages with panoramic views of the Langeberg Mountains​

• Zen-inspired interiors with open-plan living spaces​

• Wood-fired hot tub and wraparound deck for stargazing​

Suidster offers two identical cottages, Dwarriega and Poortjies, nestled amidst pristine fynbos on a 110-hectare farm. Designed for minimal environmental impact, these off-grid cottages provide an intimate retreat with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The open-plan interiors feature a king-size bed, freestanding bath, fully equipped kitchen, and a wood-fired hot tub on the deck. Activities include hiking, picnicking, and exploring nearby towns like Montagu and Barrydale. ​

Contact Information:

• Website: Suidster​Inside Guide Escapes

2. Bergsicht Outpost

Location: Tulbagh​

Distance from Cape Town: Approximately 1.5 hours​

Sleeps: 2​

Starting Price per Night: R2,400​

Highlights:

• Modern cabins on a fruit farm with panoramic mountain views​

• Stylish interiors with leather sofas and fine bed linen​

• Wood-fired hot tub and proximity to local wineries​

Bergsicht Outpost features two elevated cabins on a fruit farm, offering a sleek and modern adults-only retreat. The open-plan design includes a king-size bed, ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower and freestanding bath, fully equipped kitchen, and a living area with a fireplace. Outside, a covered deck with a braai, loungers, dining table, and a wood-fired hot tub provide relaxation with panoramic views. Nearby activities include wine-tasting, hiking, and exploring the town of Tulbagh. ​

Contact Information:

• Website: Bergsicht Outpost​

3. Edenveldt Farm Cottages

Location: Near Clanwilliam​

Distance from Cape Town: Approximately 3 hours​

Sleeps: 2​

Starting Price per Night: R2,400​

Highlights:

• Stone cottages on a 400-hectare farm with private plunge pools​

• Proximity to river pools for wild swimming​

• Opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing​

Edenveldt Farm offers three stone cottages and a restored barn, each in its own private garden with a plunge pool. The 400-hectare farm, part wildlife sanctuary, provides a serene environment with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring river pools. The cottages are well-equipped with modern amenities, including fully equipped kitchens, living areas with fireplaces, and outdoor spaces with braai facilities. ​

Contact Information:

• Website: Edenveldt Farm​

4. Sand Cabins at Nima Lodge

Location: Wilderness

Distance from Cape Town: Approximately 5 hours

Sleeps: 2

Starting Price per Night: R4,200

Highlights:

• Architect-designed cabins with a mix of modern luxury and nature

• Private hot tubs with panoramic views

• Close to the beach, ideal for outdoor lovers

The Sand Cabins at Nima Lodge are nestled in the wilderness of the Garden Route National Park. These stunning, architecturally designed cabins feature open-plan living spaces with large windows that offer expansive views of the surrounding fynbos and the Indian Ocean. The cabins come with a private hot tub, and outdoor lounging areas allow for relaxation surrounded by nature. Guests can enjoy direct access to pristine beaches and explore nearby hiking trails.

Contact Information:

• Website: Nima Lodge

---

5. Tulbagh Mountain Cabin

Location: Near Tulbagh

Distance from Cape Town: Approximately 1.5 hours

Sleeps: 5

Starting Price per Night: R2,650

Highlights:

• Thatched log cabin within a private game park

• Stunning mountain views

• Great for families or groups

Set within a private game park, the Tulbagh Mountain Cabin is a spacious, thatched log cabin with everything a group or family could need for a peaceful retreat. The cabin has a fully equipped kitchen, a cozy living area, and expansive outdoor space for enjoying meals al fresco or simply soaking in the surrounding nature. There are also opportunities for game viewing, making this a great place for nature lovers.

Contact Information:

• Website: Tulbagh Mountain Cabin

---

6. Mount Grey Cabins

Location: Between Caledon and Greyton

Distance from Cape Town: Approximately 2 hours

Sleeps: 2

Starting Price per Night: R4,300

Highlights:

• Eco-friendly cabins in a private nature reserve

• Hiking trails and wildlife sightings

• Unplugged experience perfect for digital detox

The Mount Grey Cabins offer an intimate retreat in a secluded nature reserve between Caledon and Greyton. The eco-friendly cabins are designed with sustainability in mind, providing a minimalist escape where guests can disconnect and enjoy the natural surroundings. Hiking trails wind through the reserve, allowing guests to explore the area and spot local wildlife. It’s perfect for those looking for a peaceful, unplugged getaway.

Contact Information:

• Website: Mount Grey Cabins

---

7. Untether Olive View

Location: Wellington

Distance from Cape Town: Approximately 1 hour

Sleeps: 2

Starting Price per Night: R3,320

Highlights:

• Luxury pods with scenic mountain views

• Olive farm setting with an intimate, secluded vibe

• Ideal for a romantic retreat

Untether Olive View is located on a private olive farm in Wellington, offering a collection of luxurious pods with panoramic mountain views. Each pod is designed for ultimate comfort and privacy, featuring stylish interiors, a private deck, and an outdoor shower. Guests can enjoy the tranquility of the farm, take part in olive oil tastings, and explore nearby hiking trails.

Contact Information:

• Website: Untether Olive View

---

8. GlenDonald Cottage

Location: Near Ceres

Distance from Cape Town: Approximately 3 hours

Sleeps: 13

Starting Price per Night: R7,500

Highlights:

• Spacious cottage beside a crystal-clear rock pool

• Ideal for large groups or family gatherings

• Amazing views of the Cederberg mountains

GlenDonald Cottage is a beautiful, spacious accommodation located near the town of Ceres, ideal for large families or groups. The cottage is set beside a crystal-clear rock pool, offering guests a refreshing spot to swim and relax. There are also plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, stargazing, and exploring the natural surroundings. With plenty of space both indoors and outdoors, it’s perfect for a retreat with loved ones.

Contact Information:

• Website: GlenDonald Cottage

---

9. Thuúla Hidden Haven

Location: Near Hermanus

Distance from Cape Town: Approximately 1.75 hours

Sleeps: 4

Starting Price per Night: R3,500

Highlights:

• Off-grid cabin with panoramic views

• Beautiful setting amidst fynbos and coastal vegetation

• Ideal for a peaceful and remote getaway

Thuúla Hidden Haven offers an off-grid, eco-friendly cabin in a secluded setting near Hermanus. The cabin features expansive views of the surrounding fynbos and coastal vegetation. It’s perfect for those looking for a remote and peaceful escape, with hiking, birdwatching, and relaxing as the main activities. The cabin’s minimalist design and secluded location provide a sense of tranquility, far from the crowds.

Contact Information:

• Website: Thuúla Hidden Haven

---

10. Tula Retreat

Location: Near Calitzdorp

Distance from Cape Town: Approximately 4.5 hours

Sleeps: 4

Starting Price per Night: R4,600

Highlights:

• Tented cabin overlooking a dam

• Perfect for nature enthusiasts and stargazers

• Private and peaceful with a great atmosphere

Tula Retreat features a unique blend of comfort and nature with its luxurious tented cabins. Set overlooking a tranquil dam, the cabins offer a great escape for nature lovers. The area is ideal for stargazing, birdwatching, and hiking, making it perfect for those who appreciate both outdoor adventure and relaxation. The tented design adds a rustic yet luxurious touch to the experience.

Contact Information:

• Website: Tula Retreat

---

11. The Trout Pod, Witzenberg Valley

Where: Near Prince Alfred Hamlet and Ceres
Distance from Cape Town: 3 hours

Setting:
Tucked away in the serene Witzenberg Valley, the Trout Pod sits alongside the meandering Olifants River, offering not only tranquil views but also prime fly-fishing opportunities. This modern, off-grid cottage is located on a massive 4,500-hectare protected property, perfect for those who crave wilderness and privacy. Whether you’re casting a line in the river or soaking in the warmth of the wood-fired hot tub, the Trout Pod promises an unforgettable escape.

The Lodgings:

• 2 bedrooms with queen-size beds

• 2 ensuite bathrooms with gas-heated showers

• Fully equipped kitchen and open-plan living area

• Verandah with daybeds and a braai

• Wood-fired hot tub and complimentary firewood

Things to Do:

• Fly-fishing (catch-and-release)

• Hiking trails and mountain-biking

• Swimming in river pools or waterfalls

• Birdwatching and guided kloofing (summer)

Good to Know:

• High-clearance vehicle recommended

• No Wi-Fi, but there’s cellphone reception

• Pet-friendly and child-friendly

• Cost: From R4,500 per night (minimum 2-night stay)

---

12. Oomblik Cabin, Breërivier

Where: Near Wellington
Distance from Cape Town: 1.5 hours

Setting:
In the heart of the Mount Bain Private Nature Reserve, the Oomblik Cabin offers a stunning blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. With breathtaking views of the Hawequas Mountains and pristine surroundings, this solar-powered sanctuary exudes tranquility and beauty. The foldaway doors create a seamless connection between the indoors and nature, making it impossible to miss a moment of magic.

The Lodgings:

• 2 bedrooms with king-size beds and fireplaces

• 2 bathrooms, one with a freestanding tub, plus outdoor shower

• Fully equipped kitchen, open-plan living/dining room with a fireplace

• Patio with seating, braai, and wood-fired hot tub

Things to Do:

• Hiking to waterfalls and river swimming

• Wine-tasting at nearby farms

• Pizza at Calabash Bush Pub

• Mountain-biking, bird-watching, and wildlife spotting

Good to Know:

• Last 100 meters requires higher clearance car

• Cost: From R3,500 per night for two people (minimum 2-night stay)

• Pet-friendly: Yes, two dogs maximum

---

13. Opstal Stay, Rawsonville

Where: Slanghoek Valley, Rawsonville
Distance from Cape Town: 1 hour

Setting:
Opstal Stay is nestled in the picturesque Slanghoek Valley, surrounded by towering mountains and sweeping vineyards. This lesser-known retreat offers a collection of five modern, spacious cabins that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Whether you’re here for a weekend or longer, this is an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway.

The Lodgings:

• 5 cabins, including 2 two-bedroom, two-bathroom units and 3 one-bedroom cabins

• Fully equipped kitchens, open-plan living rooms with fireplaces

• Private decks with braais and plunge pools/hot tubs

Things to Do:

• Nature walks and hiking trails

• Mountain-biking and vineyard rides

• Wine-tasting and “tractor-train” rides with picnic

• On-site restaurant and breakfast baskets

Good to Know:

• Cost: From R2,000 per night for two people

• Wifi: Yes

• Pet-friendly: No

---

14. Copia Eco Cabins, Bot River

Where: On Kiesseskraal Farm, Van der Stel Pass
Distance from Cape Town: 1.5 hours

Setting:
For those seeking complete seclusion, the Copia Eco Cabins offer just that. Built from shipping containers, these off-grid cabins are nestled on a hilltop overlooking breathtaking views of the surrounding nature. The cabins are designed with both comfort and sustainability in mind, making them a perfect eco-friendly retreat.

The Lodgings:

• 4 one-bedroom cabins with king-size beds

• Open-plan lounge/dining area with fireplaces

• Covered deck with braai and seating

• Wood-fired hot tubs and pizza oven at Soetdoring cabin

Things to Do:

• Hiking and picnics on the farm

• Fly-fishing, mountain-biking, and swimming nearby

• Beach and golf in Kleinmond

• Whale watching and visits to Hermanus (42 km)

Good to Know:

• Cost: From R2,000 per night

• Wifi: No, but excellent for an off-grid experience

• Child-friendly: No

• Pet-friendly: No

---

15. Stonewood Mountain Cabin, Bainskloof

Where: Near Wellington
Distance from Cape Town: 1.5 hours

Setting:
Perched above the valley on a private reserve, Stonewood Mountain Cabin offers an idyllic retreat amidst nature’s splendor. The cabin features stunning views, a wraparound deck, and exclusive access to the Witte River. Whether you’re lounging on the deck or hiking the nearby trails, this cabin promises total privacy and an unforgettable mountain experience.

The Lodgings:

• 2 bedrooms with queen-size beds, 2 single beds in living area

• Open-plan living area with stone fireplace

• Outdoor deck with a gas braai, picnic area, and private hot tub

Things to Do:

• Hiking and mountain-biking trails

• Swimming in the Witte River

• Wine tasting and dining at nearby restaurants

• Riverside picnics and nature exploration

Good to Know:

• Cost: From R2,500 per night

• Wifi: Yes

• Pet-friendly: No

---

16. Leopard Valley Eco Retreat, Cederberg

Where: Between Citrusdal and Clanwilliam
Distance from Cape Town: 2 hours

Setting:
Set within a pristine 1,200-hectare farm, Leopard Valley Eco Retreat is a tranquil haven tucked into the heart of the Cederberg mountains. The eco-friendly cabins are made from upcycled shipping containers, providing a stylish and sustainable stay. Surrounded by nature, it’s the perfect destination for stargazing, hiking, and birdwatching.

The Lodgings:

• 5 cabins, including 4 one-bedroom and 1 two-bedroom family cabin

• Open-plan living areas with fireplaces, braai, and hot tubs in select cabins

Things to Do:

• Hiking, swimming, and birdwatching

• Stargazing and exploring ancient rock formations

• San rock paintings and wildlife spotting

Good to Know:

• Cost: From R1,790 per night

• Wifi: Yes

• Pet-friendly: Yes (for dogs over 10 years old)

---

17. Klein-Hangklip Eco Cabin, Rooi-Els

Where: Rooi-Els, near Pringle Bay
Distance from Cape Town: 1 hour

Setting:
Klein-Hangklip Eco Cabin blends into the landscape, offering panoramic views of False Bay and the surrounding mountains. This beautifully designed cabin, set in the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, offers the ideal base for those who want to be immersed in nature.

The Lodgings:

• 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom

• Open-plan living area with a fireplace and fully equipped kitchen

• Deck with hammocks, gas braai, and wood-fired hot tub

Things to Do:

• Beach visits, swimming, and whale-watching

• Hiking trails and birdwatching

• Visits to local botanical gardens and penguin colonies

Good to Know:

• Cost: From R4,100 per night

• Wifi: Yes

• Pet-friendly: No

---

18. Mount Ceder, Grootrivier Valley

Where: Between Ceres and Clanwilliam
Distance from Cape Town: 3 hours

Setting:
Set in the awe-inspiring Grootrivier Valley, Mount Ceder offers a variety of cabins ranging from one-bedroom mini-villas to four-bedroom villas. Ideal for nature lovers, the area is known for its breathtaking views, rugged terrain, and beautiful sunsets.

The Lodgings:

• Villas and mini-villas with fully equipped kitchens, fireplaces, and private decks

• Wood-fired hot tubs and jacuzzis in select villas

Things to Do:

• Hiking, mountain-biking, and paddling in the river

• Olive oil tasting and wine tours

• “Junior ranger” adventures and stargazing

Good to Know:

• Cost: From R2,062 per night for a villa

• Wifi: Yes (restaurant only)

---

19. The River Retreat Kogelberg, Kleinmond

Where: Near Kleinmond
Distance from Cape Town: 1.5 hours

Setting:
Tucked in the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, the River Retreat Kogelberg offers two charming timber cottages with a riverfront location. This quiet, off-grid escape is perfect for nature lovers who want to hike, swim, or simply unwind by the Palmiet River.

The Lodgings:

• 2 cottages with two bedrooms each

• Open-plan living spaces with fireplaces

• Decks with river views and picnic areas

Things to Do:

• Swimming, hiking, and mountain-biking

• Whale watching and exploring nearby beaches

• Visits to local restaurants and shops

Good to Know:

• Cost: From R3,500 per night

• Wifi: No

---

20. Forest Whisper at Clifftop Houses, George

Where: Near Victoria Bay
Distance from Cape Town: 5 hours

Setting:
For those seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Ballots Nature Reserve, the Forest Whisper treehouse villa offers unparalleled views and serenity. Overlooking a steep gorge, this modern and secluded cabin makes for a magical escape into nature.

The Lodgings:

• 2 bedrooms with queen-size beds

• Glass-walled bathrooms with views

• Open-plan living area with a fireplace and fully equipped kitchen

Things to Do:

• Hiking, birdwatching, and swimming

• Whale-watching and exploring nearby beaches

• Explore Wilderness and Sedgefield

Good to Know:

• Cost: From R3,800 per night

• Wifi: Yes (minimal signal)

---

How to Choose the Perfect Cabin

Factor	What to Consider
Budget	R2,000 – R5,000+ per night
Location	Proximity to hiking, towns, and attractions
Amenities	Hot tub, Wi-Fi, pet-friendly options
Group Size	Couples vs. family-friendly cabins

---

Packing List for a Mountain Getaway

• Warm layers (mornings & evenings get chilly)
• Hiking boots & swimwear
• Portable charger (some cabins are off-grid)
• Wine & snacks (many cabins are remote)

---

FAQs

Are these cabins available year-round?

Most are, but winter (June-August) can be chilly—opt for cabins with fireplaces.

Which cabins allow pets?

• Tulbagh Mountain Cabin
• GlenDonald Cottage
• Thuúla Hidden Haven (on request)

Do I need a 4×4 to reach these cabins?

Some (like GlenDonald) require high clearance—check listings before booking.

---

Final Thoughts

Whether you crave barefoot luxury or a back-to-basics escape, the Cape’s mountain cabins deliver. My personal favorite? Sand Cabins at Nima Lodge—waking up to misty mountain views from a freestanding tub is pure magic.

Which cabin speaks to you? Let me know in the comments!

⚠️ Disclaimer
Prices and availability were accurate at the time of writing (2025). Always check official websites for updates.