Experience a magical stay among ever-changing landscapes and gorgeous natural beauty when you book an adventure to the Overberg.
The Overberg, situated east of Cape Town beyond the Hottentots-Holland mountains, encompasses a picturesque region along the south coast of the Western Cape. It stretches between the Cape Peninsula and the renowned Garden Route to the east. Bounded by the Hottentots-Holland mountains in the west, the Riviersonderend Mountains in the north, and the Atlantic and Indian Oceans in the south, with the Breede River marking its eastern edge, the Overberg boasts scenic towns like Hermanus, Caledon, Bredasdorp, Grabouw, and Swellendam. Notably, it includes Cape Agulhas, marking the southernmost tip of Africa. The landscape is characterised by gentle rolling hills embraced by majestic mountains and the vast expanse of the ocean.
About The Overberg
The name “Overberg,” derived from Over ‘t Berg, signifies “over the (Hottentots-Holland) mountain,” reflecting its location relative to Cape Town. Split into smaller regions, the Overberg encompasses the Cape Whale Coast, Cape Agulhas, Theewaterskloof, and the greater Swellendam area. Its diverse landscapes span from ocean coastlines to fynbos fields and beyond, featuring marine and nature reserves, historical landmarks, and national monuments. Along its coasts lie beautiful beaches, while its mountain ranges showcase intriguing geological formations. The region has memories of the past preserved in mission stations, shipwrecks, and old architectural treasures alongside modern town developments, catering to all visitors’ needs. The Overberg is home to prolific ocean life, including whales, dolphins, sharks, seals, and penguins, collectively known as the Marine Big 5. Its unique vegetation supports hundreds of endemic bird species, such as the endangered black oystercatcher, fish eagles, kingfishers, and South Africa’s national bird, the blue crane.
Overberg Activities
The rugged and seemingly untouched natural landscapes of the Overberg offer a selection of thrilling outdoor activities. Whether soaring high above the mountains on a scenic plane flight or traversing the numerous hiking trails that crisscross the terrain, the Overberg could easily be dubbed the outdoor adventure capital of the country. Catering to both sports enthusiasts and eco-adventurers, the Overberg offers something for everyone – take on challenging 4×4 trails, dust off your golf clubs for a round of golf, saddle up for a horseback ride, embark on a serene sunset cruise, learn the art of fly fishing, or catch sight of majestic whales. For those seeking a more laid-back holiday experience, indulge in homegrown wines, unwind in country gardens with a captivating book, or relax in the natural hot springs.
Overberg Accommodation
There is no shortage of spectacular places to stay in the Overberg, with each sub-region offering its own unique charm. From the coastal gems of Walker Bay, where you can whale-watch from your bedroom, and Hemel-en-Aarde’s mountain retreats host to hot tubs and sweeping fynbos plains, to the glamping tents and riverside escapes of Swellendam, there’s a stunning getaway just waiting to be explored.
Blue Crane Farm Lodge
Blue Crane Farm Lodge is a beautiful self-catering retreat perched on the slopes of the Houwhoek Mountains along the Van Der Stel Pass in Botrivier. As you pass through the farm gate, discover a private paradise overlooking a serene dam where peace and tranquillity await. Considered a home away from home, the newly built, self-catering farm cottages, namely Woodpecker, Suikerbekkie, Piet my Vrou, and Fish Eagle, embody warmth and comfort. Each cottage, named after local birds by owner Bennie Engelke, features two bedrooms, an indoor braai/fireplace, a pizza oven, and a delightful wood-fired hot tub overlooking gorgeous Overberg mountain views. Enjoy daily deliveries of freshly baked bread and farm milk through the kitchen hatch, enhancing your stay with a touch of rustic charm.
Southern Yurts
Situated on Porcupine Hills Guest Farm in the Diepklowe Nature Conservancy, Southern Yurts offers a unique glamping experience with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and luxury camping accommodations. Guests have the option of three private yurt sites, the secluded Forest View sleeping 2 (perfect for a romantic couples retreat) and the 2 to 4 sleeper Kestrel and Malachite yurts, ideally suited to both couples and groups of friends or families. Each yurt offers comfortable double beds, an enclosed outdoor bathroom, a fully-equipped kitchen for self-catering, an indoor fireplace, outdoor seating and braai area, and even a private wood-fired hot tub.
Klein Hangklip
Discover the magic of Klein Hangklip, an eco-cabin located just outside the seaside town of Rooi Els. The two-bedroom home redefines sustainable luxury living and seamlessly combines modern comforts with eco-conscious design, featuring solar power and backup batteries for an eco-friendly stay in a beautiful coastal setting. Klein Hangklip accommodates up to four guests, making it ideal for families or friends seeking an intimate getaway. Guests have full access to a modern kitchen, a cosy lounge with an indoor fireplace, and a dining area perfect for a self-catering retreat. But the real magic happens on the half-sheltered expansive deck, host to a private wood-fired hot tub, braai facilities, and a unique netted seating area, all overlooking the ocean and mountains.
Pringle Bay Villa
Pringle Bay Villa is a breathtaking coastal escape located right on the shore of a charming seaside village in the Overberg, offering an authentic experience with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. The villa features four double en-suite bedrooms (two with extra-length king-size beds, one with a queen-size bed and one with twin single beds) sleeping up to eight guests, as well as an open-plan fully equipped kitchen, dining room, and living area. Outside, you’ll discover an indigenous garden featuring a natural stream and pond (regularly visited by Cape Clawless Otters) a rim-flow pool, and a private outdoor bath and shower offering mesmerising 360-degree vistas.
Thuúla Hidden Haven
Behind the rolling fields of the Overberg and amongst an abundance of fynbos lies Thuúla Hidden Haven. Located in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley with a secluded setting, a wood-fired hot tub, walking trails, and an elegant interior, this property is designed to leave you feeling restored and inspired. The four-sleeper cottage offers a peaceful and secluded stay in nature, where you can experience breathtaking views from whichever spot you choose to relax. Each bedroom features an en-suite bathroom, ensuring comfort and convenience for all guests. The kitchen is fully equipped with high-quality appliances, enabling you to prepare delicious meals, while an indoor fireplace warms the house during the winter months, providing a cosy, intimate getaway for guests.
Canvas Collective Africa
Located in the Overberg’s fertile Hemel-en-Aarde valley, Canvas Collective Africa offers a scenic glamping experience, with a selection of luxury tents in nature reserves and farmlands – designed to support ground-nesting birds and other small creatures. Canvas Collective Africa offers 10 luxurious tents made entirely of canvas, catering to the refined adventurous individuals who appreciate the wonders of nature while desiring the comforts of home. These high-end accommodations sleep two people per tent and are equipped with modern amenities – providing a haven for relaxation and indulgence. The cosy living area features a spacious king-sized bed, and each tent seamlessly connects the sleeping area to the en-suite bathroom.
Farm 215
Farm 215 is a sweeping nature escape surrounded by hectares of untouched indigenous fynbos plains, offering a beautiful getaway in the Overberg region. For the past 16 years, the owners have welcomed guests from all corners of the globe, inviting them to revel in the wonders of nature and enjoy every aspect of their offerings. The self-catering units are spread out across the 800-hectare private nature reserve, and sleep up to 20 guests with each unit offering a fully equipped kitchen. Engage in captivating experiences, unwind in private wood-fired hot tubs, and more. This unique haven for birds and wildlife, including the elusive Cape Leopard, also shelters numerous endangered plant species.
Vineyard Cottage, Goodluck Homestead
Vineyard Cottage, Goodluck Homestead, is a stunning eco cottage located on a regenerative farm in Stanford. Surrounded by sweeping vineyards and indigenous fynbos, the escape offers a wonderful break in nature with breathtaking views of Walker Bay and the Klein River Mountains. The cottage is entirely off-grid with solar power, ensuring a seamless (loadshedding-free!) stay for guests. The cottage is an ideal retreat for couples or solo travellers, featuring a comfortable king-size bed and an en-suite bathroom with a free-standing bath, walk-in shower, and an outdoor shower overlooking the garden. There’s also an open-plan fully equipped kitchen, dining area, indoor fireplace, and covered patio with outdoor seating, a built-in braai area, and an inviting hot tub from which to enjoy the gorgeous views.
Whalesong Lodge
Whalesong Lodge is a boutique guesthouse situated in De Kelders, Gansbaai, not more than 2 hours from Cape Town. The lodge has luxurious and homey accommodations, offering four standard rooms and one honeymoon suite. Each of the rooms has private decks boasting beautiful views over the Walker Bay beach and beyond to the Kleinrivier mountains. Whalesong Lodge was designed to make the most of the amazing views over Walker Bay towards Hermanus and Cape Point. The lodge has a roomy open-plan lounge and the dining room is divided by a freestanding fireplace. A huge glass folding door takes you to a wooden deck with a swimming pool overlooking the ocean. For the cooler months, there is a fireplace and a great selection of South African Red Wines for guests to enjoy.
Blue Gum Country Estate
Blue Gum Country Estate is a beautiful getaway on a working wine farm in the valley leading to the charming town of Stanford, a short drive from Hermanus. The Gibson family has lovingly owned and operated this estate for over two decades, transforming it into a flourishing vineyard and carefully crafting a rustic countryside space perfect for a romantic getaway, an adventure-seeking young family, or a friend’s holiday. Best of all, your beloved pets are welcome to join in the experience! Blue Gum Country Estate offers five spacious self-catering rooms (with the option of bed-and-breakfast) and three bed-and-breakfast-only rooms, some of which feature cosy indoor fireplaces. Additionally, a self-catering villa is available for those seeking a more exclusive experience for a bigger family.
Somerset Gift Getaway Farm
Somerset Gift Getaway Farm is a scenic hideaway located near the historic town of Swellendam, surrounded by lush green valleys that border the majestic Langeberg Mountains. The private land encompasses thousands of hectares of beautiful mountain ground with trails that wind through indigenous forests and fynbos, leading to mountain valleys, waterfalls, and rock pools. Somerset Gift Getaway Farm offers a range of self-catering accommodations, including the Manor House, Fish Eagle Lodge, Rose Cottage, Loerie Cottage, Olive Cottage, and the Little Bush Buck Cottage – each equipped with collected antiques, charming Cape cottage decor and all the modern amenities needed for a fuss-free stay.
High Season Luxury Farm Cottages
High Season Farm is located among the tranquil surroundings of the Hemel en Aarde Valley, near Hermanus, offering a peaceful getaway just 110 km from Cape Town. Tucked away in their private pieces of paradise, each beautifully decorated cottage can accommodate up to six guests and provides uninterrupted views of the panoramic mountains. Wake up to a stunning vista in the comfort of your lodgings, surrounded by the serenity of a child-friendly farm with Nguni cattle, farm dams, and a refreshing swimming pool. The fully equipped cottages ensure a comfortable and hassle-free stay, making your vacation a truly relaxing experience. Inverters provide uninterrupted electricity and every unit includes fireplaces and ceiling fans, making them perfect for both summer and winter getaways.
Frog Mountain Getaway
Frog Mountain Getaway is a dreamlike escape situated on a nature sanctuary at the end of a farm road in the heart of the Langeberg mountains near Swellendam. Frog Mountain has six private self-catering houses, including three enchanting, cosy thatched rondavels for small families. All the houses are private except for two small rondavels which are close together – perfect for sharing families or friends. All offer an unforgettable stay. They are natural sanctuaries of simplicity and beauty, with special touches such as Egyptian cotton linen, king-size beds, wood-fired hot tubs and many other extras to make your stay comfortable. There is also a spacious fully fenced, private farmhouse with a swimming pool that sleeps 12 – perfect for groups of friends or families travelling together. With a strict no-music policy, Frog Mountain offers an oasis where nature thrives and serenity is par for the course.
Platbos Forest
Platbos Forest stands as one of the scarce remaining indigenous forests in South Africa, representing a Lowland Afrotemperate forest remnant of extraordinary woodland home to ancient trees, some of which have gracefully endured for over a millennium. Tucked away on the slopes of the Baviaanspoort Hills, Platbos Forest is a true nature-lovers retreat and graces the landscape along Grootbos Road situated between the fishing village of Gansbaai and the coastal town of Hermanus in the Western Cape Province. This secluded hideaway offers private tented accommodations and cosy cabins, each comfortably accommodating up to 2 guests. What sets Platbos Forest apart is its exclusivity, granting guests the rare privilege of having this distinctive and beautiful forest venue entirely to themselves.
Romansbaai Collection
Set in a pristine private bay and reserve a stone’s throw from the popular tourism destination of Gansbaai, the Romansbaai Collection offers five premium self-catering houses for guests seeking a stylish escape. The minimalist-designed houses are fully equipped and tastefully decorated, including charcoal Webers, Nespresso coffee machines and wine coolers. Each house has one or two bedrooms and features a different premium design and interior style. Guests can choose to relax inside the comfortable lounge adorned with modern amenities or whip up a delicious meal in the fully equipped kitchen. All the houses have a spacious outdoor patio and seating area, with select houses even offering a wood-fired hot tub.
Stonehaven Eco Cabins
Situated at the foot of the Babylonstoren mountain range, Stonehaven Eco Cabins offers a wonderful escape with units that are modern and homely. The small Hemel-en-Aarde Valley farm is a tranquil, calm space — ideal for re-energising. The cabins are thoughtfully designed and tastefully decorated, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Each eco cabin features well-appointed living spaces, including cosy bedrooms, spacious living areas, and fully equipped kitchens. Guests can relax on private patios or balconies and enjoy the surrounding gardens. The tranquil ambience and scenic surroundings make Stonehaven Eco Cabins a perfect choice for those seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and a memorable stay in Hermanus.
Marlin Manor
Marlin Manor is a seafront exclusive-use coastal villa situated at the southernmost tip of Africa, in the scenic Cape Agulhas region. This hidden gem offers 650 metres of pristine white sandy beaches a mere 2-hour drive from Cape Town, and with 180-degree uninterrupted sea views, spacious, elegant, and modern living spaces, plus total privacy, it offers the perfect place to experience the magic of the Overberg. The beautiful, secluded villa accommodates up to 16 guests in six rooms with a combination of king-size, double, and bunk beds, with bathrooms featuring three bathtubs and two showers to ensure comfort and convenience for all.
Discover the magic of an Overberg adventure and book your accommodation with Conservio today!
