Accommodation availability in the Kogelberg

THE RIVER RETREAT

SELF-CATERING COTTAGES

Message from your hosts

Ash and Ian van Zuydam…

The flowers and fresh spring water brought us to this mountain as well as our passion for conservation. We moved to the Kogelberg Valley in 2022 with the aim of rehabilitating the old wildflower farm, minimising human impact on the property and returning as much space as possible back to wilderness. The River Retreat gives us the opportunity to share this magnificent landscape with you. We are grateful for the contribution your stay plays in the long-term maintenance and conservation goals of the property.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Access is along a paved, gravel road.

Yes. The water comes from a natural spring on the mountain. It is coloured by the rocks and vegetation. However, if you are concerned, we recommend either boiling the tap water, filtering the rain water provided or bringing your own drinking water.

The kitchen is equipped with an electric fridge-freezer and a gas stove and oven. However due to the limited capacity of the solar system there is no electric kettle, toaster, microwave or dishwasher.

Unfortunately pets are not allowed because of the wildlife on the property.

During Summer when the water levels are lower it is safe to swim in the Palmiet River. Children should always be supervised and accompanied by an adult. Guests swim at their own risk.

You can walk/drive 1km to the Kogelberg Nature Reserve Offices from the cottages and hike in the reserve from there. Alternatively you can easily drive to the Botanical Gardens to do the numerous hikes there or at the Kleinmond Nature Reserve. The various hiking maps are provided in the cottages.

Yes. We have a resident troop of baboons that live in the valley. They are still wild and have not yet discovered human food, unlike the “town” baboons in Betty’s Bay and Pringle Bay. We therefore kindly request that guests lock all doors and windows when going out.

The nearest shops and petrol stations are in Kleinmond about 5km away.

Summer is usually our dry season and allows for long daylight hours languishing in the river, on the beaches or exploring the mountains. The flowers are magnificent all year round but what is in-flower changes seasonally. The best time to see proteas is in May, June and July. However, daylight hours are limited and the Winter weather is cold, wild, windy and wet. Spring is pincushion season and the Ericas grace the mountains from Spring to Summer.

THINGS TO DO

“My time spent with you in this “floral paradise” has been magnificent. Thank you most sincerely.”
ELINOR