For your next holiday in South Africa, think differently and Leave Ordinary Behind. ⛺️
After years of local travel enforced by Covid, you may think you’re done with local. Or maybe the idea of another weekend away in a city hotel or country lodge just doesn’t inspire?
Well we’ve found 50+ of the most unique accommodation in South Africa to inspire you for weekenders or midweek breaks for the rest of the year. 😎
#uniquestays that will delight your inner child.
Choose to stay somewhere unusual. Think: wigwams, silos, stables, caves, tree-houses and lighthouses; Instagram worthy destinations which are creative, cool, off-the-beaten-path, or just plain fun. Some are super-luxury and some are not! But …
Here they are ~ the 50 most #UniqueStays / unique accommodation in South Africa.
PS: If in any doubt that South Africa has unique accommodation options, you can even … STAY IN A SHOE!!
Unique accommodation in the WESTERN CAPE
Stay in the old grain silos
The Silo Hotel in V&A Waterfront
The Silo Hotel occupies the former grain elevator portion of the historic grain silo complex, standing six stories above Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront.
Positioned directly atop the renowned Zeitz MOCAA (Museum of Contemporary Art Africa), it offers an unparalleled vantage point. Zeitz MOCAA stands as the continent’s premier collection of contemporary African art.
Details:The Silo Hotel is a celebration of art, style, architecture and design. A tribute to timeless glamour and contemporary luxury offering the highest levels of service. Guests have access to a swimming pool, gym and spa facilities and all the facilities expected at a 5 star hotel in Cape Town.Price range: $$$$$$
Stay in an eco-built container conversion
Riverstone’s Fam Tin in Wolseley
Stay in this stylish eco-built container and take in the spectacular, uninterrupted views of the Breede River Valley.
Mountain views, a wood-burning stove, an outdoor patio, and a farm dam (perfect for summer swims) all add to the allure. This fabulous Wolseley accommodation is also pet-friendly.
Details:Riverstone’s FamTin offers modern and trendy accommodation for 4, in 2 en-suite rooms. Luxurious finishes and attention to detail means this has become one of our most popular spots, often booked up MONTHS in advance!Price range: $$$
Stay overnight in a cave suite …
Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve in Cederberg
The signature Cederberg accommodation at Kagga Kamma Nature reserve offers unique ‘cave’ suites, beautifully integrated with the sandstone rock formations.
Each cave suite has a private terrace and is stylishly furnished. The beautiful rock formations can be experienced up close in these suites that blend into their environment seamlessly.
Details:Experience this unique environment in the lap of luxury. Luxury cave suites with all the facilities you’d expect from 4-Star accommodation with on-site dining, star gazing and opportunity to sleep out under the stars. Price Range: $$$$
Stay in a cottage built on a rock …
Asteroidea in Paternoster
Discover the ultimate beach retreat for 6 in Paternoster! This unique beach house, built on and around a rock, accommodates six guests in three cosy bedrooms.
Enjoy direct beach access and stunning views from the living area, kitchen, and patio.
Details:With three bathrooms, TV, DStv, a fully equipped kitchen, and both indoor fireplace and outdoor braai facilities, your seaside escape awaits.Price range: $$$
Stay in a Sir Herbert Baker designed castle …
Dunn’s Castle in Piketberg
Dunn’s Castle in Piketberg stands alone in the middle of the pristine wheat fields, green vines and yellow canola.
Built in the late 1890s for George Dunn and designed by Sir Herbert Baker, Dunn’s Castle offers comfortable rooms with Victorian finishes.
Details:The Castle offers 8 Victorian style rooms, and can house up to 20 guests. This historic Castle is only available for booking as a whole. It offers its own private swimming pool with a braai area. Several additions are available on request.Price range: $$$
Stay in a converted grain silo …
The Silo at Kalmoesfontein in Malmesbury
The converted grain Silo located in Malmesbury is an open-plan master bedroom with stunning views of the Swartland-scape.
The room, with it’s king-size bed is often booked as a honeymoon suite and is the perfect romantic getaway or overnight spot from which to explore the area.
Details:Elegantly decorated with many highlights including furnished with a king size bed, luxury cotton linen and towels, air conditioning (for heat as well as cold). Price range: $$$
Stay in a heritage building …
Cape Heritage Hotel, Cape Town City Bowl
History and chic combine on Heritage Square in a way that will have you drooling.
This beautiful old building in the city centre of Cape Town has few rooms, maintains its cool 18th century inner courtyard dripping in grapevines, and effectively exposes original wall niches and murals, and blends the look with hardwoods and ageless furnishings.
Details: Its a small, intimate but luxury hotel, popular with tourists and locals! Each room has its own unique character and feature original artworks.Price Range: $$$$
Stay in a trailer park on a city rooftop …
The Airstream Trailer Park at Grand Daddy
There’s nothing quite as playful as the Rooftop Airstream Trailer Park at the Grand Daddy Hotel on Long Street in Cape Town. Think of them as a penthouse stay, because the views from up here are incredible.
And the creativity that’s gone into a series of themed and individually decorated trailers is worth at least one night’s stay, wouldn’t you say?
Details: Choose from our standard trailers or our luxurious trailer suite. There are patio areas with tables and chairs and incredible city views.Price range: $$$
Stay in a Yurt …
Southern Yurts in Botrivier
Southern Yurts is a round tent that includes wood and stone in its construction.
The bedrooms are equipped with a Queen-size bed. The room has bedding, towels, spare blankets, heater, hot water bottle, a chest of drawers, binoculars and wildlife / tree books, other reading material and playing cards. Charging points are located next to the bed.
Details:Highlights include an outdoor wood-fired hot tub where you can relax and enjoy the bushveld. WiFi. Price Range: $$
Stay in an eco-dome …
Pom Gratz Eco Domes in Terrelaarsdal
Enjoy these unique, off-the-grid solar dome stands that are situated on a tranquil, picturesque farm in Tesselaarsdal. If you like the wide-open spaces, Overberg stars at night, walks in the Renosterbos, then this is for you!
Each dome is set up to ensure big open sky views in an eco-sensitive environment with a minimal footprint.
Details:The toilets are all waterless, and the excess water from the dome goes into a developing gray water wetland. Electricity is supplied by our off-the-grid solar system.Price Range: $$
Glamping directly on the beach …
West Coast Luxury Tents in Dwarskersbos
Situated halfway between Dwarskersbos and Elands Bay, West Coast Luxury Tents is on a private beachfront farm that has no public access.
The beach is accessible with a 4×4 vehicle and there is a private airstrip for light aircraft. The beach boasts the most spectacular seaside sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean and no two sunsets look the same.
Details:Three luxury tents (sleep 2 – 4 guests) are set up in the bush behind a sand dune. They are 500 meters from a 40km long unspoilt sandy beach. Just go!Price range: $$
Stay in an indigenous forest …
Honey Bee Cabin at Platbos Forest
The accommodation near Gansbaai at Platbos is off the grid, so there are no electrical appliances. Gas for cooking and crockery available. The walls of the bedroom are canvas blinds that can be rolled up as desired.
The hot tub is situated underneath a white stinkwood tree and uses untreated river water for a really authentic experience.
Details:Honey Bee Sleeps 2 guests. No electricity (off-grid). Hot tub. There are other cabins available too. We recommemd this suite! It has a double bed with a mosquito net, all linen, towels and bedding. Price Range: $$
Stay in a caravan and teepee …
Lily Pod at Glen Eden Farm in Montagu
Lilly Pod provides glamping in Montagu for four guests. The pod comprises a hand-made, gypsy wagon which is furnished with a Queen-size, extra-length bed and a seating area which can be converted into an additional single bed.
The pod also has a teepee tent which sleeps two people and is furnished with two single beds (if required).
Details: It has a private pod with a bathroom fitted with a shower, eco-toilet and basin, as well as a small kitchen. Outside there is a braai, hot tub and fire pit with tree stump seating to relax and enjoy the fire whilst chatting with friends enjoying a drink or two.Price range: $$
Stay in a trailer park …
Old Mac Daddy Family Trailer in Elgin
Part wholesome caravan park, part designer farm lodge, Old Mac Daddy offers adventure, escapism and pure relaxation. This is the perfect place for a fun filled, yet relaxing break away, especially with family. It is located Elgin, 15 km from the town of Grabouw.
Details:The Old Mac Daddy Family Trailer is a one bedroom en-suite trailer that sleeps two adults and two children. There is a built-on living area. Breakfast is included and served daily in The Barn Restaurant. Price range: $$$
Stay in a shack on the beach …
Sea Shack in Paternoster
These quirky little shacks are perched right on the sandy shores of Paternoster, where the sea spray and bracing breeze make the perfect travel companions.
Each of the 10 shacks has its own theme and honours a local artist. The shacks are committed to being eco-friendly, and there are communal facilities.
Details:10 cute ‘shacks’ sleep two people each in either a Queen or Twin beds, comfortable Cloud Nine mattresses and good linen.Price range: $
Stay in a restored grain silo …
Simonsberg Silos in Stellenbosch
These authentic silos are contemporary and uber-cool spots for those that love elegance with a twist. Situated on the beautiful Natte Valleij wine farm just outside Stellenbosch, these well-equipped silos have all of the modern amenities and are close to some of the country’s most popular wine estates.
The round-walled space lends itself to a charm and character that can’t easily be recreated in any other way, making it really fun and memorable.
Details:The two converted apartments each have a loft bedroom furnished with a Queen-size bed and a bathroom. There is an open plan living area complete with tea / coffee facilities, a small fridge and a microwave. All beautifully decorated.Price range: $$$
Stay in a Wigwam …
Wigwam Rising Moon in Paternoster
Wigwam Rising Moon is a luxurious tepee-tent offering a unique stay. Snuggle up in a comfortable octagonal bed fitted with electric blankets, a thick duvet and warm water bottle.
There is a seating area, tea / coffee making facilities, a mini bar fridge and free Wi-Fi. Listen to sounds of nature’s nightlife and do stargazing though the skylight window.
Details:A highlight is the outdoor wood-fired Hot Tub at the guest house. Price range: $$
Stay in a houseboat within a national park …
Kraalbaai Lifestyle Houseboats
Situated in the West Coast National Park about an hour drive from Cape Town, this unique experience offers you the opportunity of “living on the water”. With breathtaking lagoon views and all nature has to offer on your doorstep, it is ideal for a family getaway or even a romantic retreat.
Details:Choose between a 4, 6, 8 or 20 sleeper houseboat! Each houseboat has a fully equipped kitchen and living area. Enjoy a braai while keeping an eye on the kids as they splash around on the swim deck. The houseboats have flushing toilets and large pentagonal showers.Price range: $$$
Unique accommodation in the GARDEN ROUTE
Stay overnight in a train compartment …
The Santos Express in Mossel Bay
Relive the charm of yesteryear, when staying overnight in a train compartment was part of the excitement of a long-haul trip across country.
The Santos Express is on the beach in Mossel Bay and all of the compartments have gorgeous views of the waves rushing to shore.
Details: Just metres from the water, the suites are elegant and spacious enough, with plenty of modern amenities. Essentially a backpacker experience, our guests love it.Price range: $
Stay in a castle on the beach …
Lindsay Castle in Noetzie
The Castle will impress you with its rustic atmosphere. The castle is on the edge of Noetzie beach in the town of Knysna, known for its forests and wild elephants.
A special highlight is the Eco-Trail, a nature trail leading through the now-protected Sinclair nature reserve.
Details:Lindsay Castle is a self catering holiday home with six bedrooms. The six bedrooms with stunning views over the Indian Ocean offer enough space for 12 people and have six bathrooms.Price range: $$$$$
Stay in a converted power station …
The Turbine Hotel, Knysna, Garden Route
A rather ambitious project to restore and transform an old power station into a 5 star boutique hotel in Knysna is quirky and inventive.
The hotel in Knysna has wrapped itself around existing machinery with new rooms and add-ons continuing the theme of gauges, valve gear and pipework.
Details:Highlights: The 5-Star hotel is intimate, and overlooks the canals of Thesen Island. On site spa and restaurant, guests rate the hotel highly for location and service.Price Range: $$$$
Stay in a houseboat …
Knysna Houseboats in Knysna
Knysna Houseboats offers accommodation in well equipped houseboats, all outfitted to high specifications, for a truly comfortable experience.
The charter base is located in Thesen Islands Harbour Town in Knysna – this marina development is within walking distance of the waterfront, yacht harbour and the town centre of Knysna.
Details:The Houseboats create a home away from home feeling, as they are equipped with all the facilities required for self catering.Price range: $$$$
Stay in an Eco-Coconut …
Buff and Fellow Eco Coconut
Perfect for a couple or a small family with children, this eco-coconut has an en-suite bedroom with a bath and outdoor shower. Luxury furnishings and facilities, a fully equipped kitchen with gas stove, lounge with fireplace and DSTV Flat screen TV.
Patio with braai and wood-fired hot tub overlooking the beautiful dam and majestic mountains. Perfect!
Details:Fully solar powered, this eco coconut sleeps 2 – 4 guests. (1 x King-size bed & sleeper couch). There are other pods and cabanas available too. Highlights include the beautiful surroundings, hot tub, lots to explore and a beautiful dam and wildlife.Price range: $$$$
Stay in a Gypsy Vardo …
Treedom Vardos in Wilderness
Escape reality and stay in Wilderness, in a place where magic and adventure awaits. Staying at Treetop Vardos, you will feel like “Kings of the Road” living in your “horse-drawn” vibrantly painted palace, without the horse of course.
Artistry and dedication to the building craft are a big part of the Vardos and each one is completely unique and has its own story.
Details:Choose between the Owl Vardo (sleeps 5) and Gypsey Vardo (sleeps 2). They are super-cute and past guests have loved them!Price range: $$
Stay in a castle on the beach …
Craighross Castle in Knysna
The historic, privately owned Noetzie Castles are world famous. Its a luxury holiday home with all the facilities you’d expect from a luxury retreat.
Located just 20 minutes from Knysna, their stunning oceanfront location and extraordinary design have made them a favourite retreat for the rich and famous – including Nelson Mandela and his family.
Details:Sleeps 14 guests in 6 bedrooms with 6 bathrooms, this is luxury holiday accommodation on the beach at it finest. Price range: $$$$$
Stay in an indigenous forest, in the trees …
Teniqua Treetops in Sedgefield
Teniqua Treetops invites you to a luxurious, eco-friendly, glamping treehouse holiday hideout. (sleep, eat and shower in the trees). Sedgefield is Africa’s first Cittaslow town, and big on slowing down and outdoor living.
Set in acres of pristine indigenous forest, Teniqua Treetops offers you an experience that may be quietly life-changing. They are private, tranquil with spectacular mountain and gorge views.
Details:Built on handcrafted platforms and situated in carefully chosen beauty spots, the treehouses have comfortable tented bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, leafy luxury bathrooms with an inside and outside deck area. All treehouses are serviced daily.Price range: $$$
Stay in a hotel that also a castle …
Pezula Castle in Noetzie
Pezula Private Castle is an extraordinary stone house in Noetzie beach that has been divided into three fabulous units. From here you are right on the beach and can enjoy a relaxing getaway.
Knysna is just ten minutes away and Plettenberg Bay is a short 20 minutes drive, both of which also offer a wide variety of attractions and activities.
Details: It offers 2 options – a beautiful honeymoon castle suite OR a suite for holiday experience for 6. You will live like royalty in this magnificent private residence, and enjoy direct beach access, spacious luxurious suites, all with their own terraces, and personal service from a dedicated team of staff. Price range: $$$$$
Stay in a castle inspired guest house …
Castle On The Heads in Knysna
Castle On The Heads is a beautiful castle-inspired boutique hotel in Knysna where guests can enjoy panoramic ocean and lagoon views.
The accommodation at this luxury guest house is offered in five premium suites. Each suite is decorated in its own spectacular way.
Details:The rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities, built in cupboard, TV with Netflix and have a private patio.Price range: $$$
Unique accommodation in the NORTHERN CAPE
Stay in a dome-shaped mountain retreat …
Naries Namakwa Retreat Mountain Suites
Experience the raw drama of the Namakwa region from the domed mountain suites, which are situated far away from the manor house for the ultimate in serenity.
The luxurious bath is perfect for two, and there are really incredible views of this very special area. The use of natural materials like thatch and wood creates an even more memorable spot.
Details: The domed Namakwa Mountain Suites are unique, luxurious and romantic! They are furnished with an en-suite bath and shower. It’s remote (± 1km from the Manor House Main Base), and very private!Price Range: $$$
Stay in a corbelled house …
Osfontein Guest Farm in Carnarvon
The Northern Cape is home to these idiosyncratic beehive stone dwellings, built by early pioneers to the area who, without access to trees, were forced to think out of the box when it came to their homes.
A couple of farms, including Osfontein Guest Farm, have repurposed these as self-catering accommodation.
Details: Built entirely of stone makes them warm during the winter months and surprisingly cool during summer.Price range: $$
Stay in a flower beach camp …
Namaqua Flower Beach Camp in Kamieskroon
Each year, a miraculous display unfolds in the Northern Cape, as nature adorns the landscape with confetti as far as the eye can see.
The Namaqua Flower Beach Camp is a rustic yet sophisticated tented camp, nestled along the beautiful Namaqua coastline just 1 km north of the Groenrivier entrance to the Namaqua National Park. The camp is open during the flower season (Aug – Sept), when this arid region undergoes a magnificent floral transformation.
Details:Operating annually for one month only during ‘flower season’, the camp offers a fully inclusive experience. Ocean-facing luxury canvas dome tents ensure that you wake up refreshed and completely rejuvenated to enjoy the experience. Price range: $$$$
Unique accommodation in the EASTERN CAPE
Stay overnight in a lighthouse …
Cape Recife Lighthouse Villa in Summerstrand
Cape Recife Lighthouse Villa is located in Summerstrand in Port Elizabeth.
Ever dreamed of being a castaway on a remote stretch of coastline, surrounded by ocean, birdsong and beauty, with no unwanted human disturbance? This is it!
Details: It sleeps 4 guests in 2 bedrooms. The kitchen is fully equipped and there is a dining room. The living room is comfortably furnished and there is a fireplace and smart TV. The open plan living area has lovely sea views, balcony and braai facilities.Price range: $$$
Stay in a magical TeePee …
The Magical Teepee Experience
In Hogsback in the Eastern Cape, these romantic teepee tents can each accommodate two guests and feature comfy sofas or armchairs, an electrical point to charge devices and an original wood-burning Mexican Chimenea fireplace.
The tents are furnished with King-size beds and have an external private bathroom. Opening onto a deck that is ideal for sunbathing or reading, candles and fairy lights add extra magic after the sun has set.
Details:There are 4 tents sleeping 8 guests in total. Pet friendly. The tents share a well-equipped communal kitchen with a fridge, gas stove, kettle, microwave, toaster, cutlery and crockery. Braai facilities are available.Price range: $
Stay in an old train carriage
Founders Railway Carriage in Sidbury
Originally built in the 1970s, the railway carriage is permanently stationed at the top of a hill within Mantis’ private concession. Ideal for families, the carriage accommodates a total of five guests.
It has three cabins, consisting of a main compartment and two smaller two-berth and one-berth cabins as well as a restored bathroom. This piece of living history provides an incredible guest experience and is now available for exclusive use.
Details:Guests staying on the luxury carriage will have a dedicated staff to set the pace of their holiday – whether that’s early morning nature walks, leisurely picnic brunches, lounging by the pool or late nights around the boma fire.Price range: $$$$$
Sleep outdoors under the Karoo starlit sky …
Visit Samara Karoo Reserve in Graff-Reinet
Arrive just before sunset for a delightful picnic dinner, enjoy the sight of local wildlife gathering at the water’s edge for a drink. Absorb breathtaking views of the mountainous landscape, untouched by light and noise pollution.
As night falls, see the Milky Way twinkling above. Wrap up in a cozy mohair blanket and drift off to sleep under the vast Karoo sky…
Details: Guests must be booked into Karoo Lodge or The Manor for a minimum of 2 nights in order to experience this. See our link for details. Price range: $$$$$$
Stay in the Shire with Hobbits …
The Shire Eco Lodge in Stutterheim
Places like these exist only in someone’s imagination until they’re brought into being by someone’s skilled work.
A series of wooden chalets that could easily have stepped out of The Hobbit lie on the edge of the Xholora forest in the Amatola Mountains with hiking trails, waterfalls and a picnic area. It’s no surprise that it’s called The Shire.
Details:Each elegant open-plan chalet contains a stylish en-suite bathroom and fully equipped kitchenette, as well as its own braai / barbeque facilities. Through the striking curved-glass corner window, you can feel a part of the forest.Price range: $$
Stay in a water tower…
The Water Tower Cottage in Nieu-Bethesda
Nieu-Bethesda is, in itself, a rather quirky destination. The Water Tower is a double-storey house in this little town, with rounded white-washed walls and narrow ladder-stairs up to the bedroom.
The clever use of space and light makes it a particularly enticing part of your Eastern Cape experience.
Details:The Water Tower can accommodate 2 guests. Pets are welcome by arrangement.Price range: $
Stay in a tiny house in a game reserve …
Mount Camdeboo Pods in Graaff-Reinet
The remote wilderness pods at Mount Camdeboo Private Game Reserve harness the idea of the tiny house movement for a powerfully immersive and luxurious experience of nature.
The eco-friendly pods are situated in an undisturbed part of the Camdeboo Plain and blend effortlessly with the natural environment. Guests can enjoy game drives, stargazing, sundowners and nature walks.
Details: The pods each sleep 2 adults. They are extremely private, offer luxury finishes and facilities. Each pod has a fully equipped kitchen, cosy bed overlooking the plains through floor-to-ceiling windows, an en-suite bathroom and a private outdoor hot tub. Price range: $$$
Stay overnight in an old grain silo …
The Silo Cottage in Lady Grey
This charming building was used as a grain store before being converted into a small cottage. It consists of an en-suite bedroom with a reed ceiling, white linen and an electric blanket to keep you cosy on cold nights.
A lounge/kitchen area at ground level with a small fridge, microwave, two burner gas stove and braai facilities on a spacious stoep.
Details:Sleeps 2 guests in a King or two singles. This is comfortable budget accommodation. The self-catering cottage has private barbecue facilities.Price range: $$
Stay at the oldest pub in the country …
The Historic Pig & Whistle Inn
This National Monument is situated in the quaint little English style village of Bathurst in the heart of settler country in the Eastern Cape. This Olde World Inn was established in January 1832, and became known as “Hartley’s Inn”.
Several prominent settlers stayed at the Inn including Lord Charles Somerset. In World War II, the Inn was frequented by the air force men who were stationed at 43 Air School, close to Port Alfred. They nicknamed the pub “The Pig n Whistle” as traditionally this had been the name of the inns that served the air force in England.
Details: Restored rooms with antiques, en-suite rooms, there are also traditional old fashioned rooms with communal bathrooms. Don’t expect luxury! Its a basic Inn. Price range: $
Stay in a fully transparent dome …
The Pyramid in Storms River
The Pyramid in Storms River in Tsitsikamma is Africa’s first fully transparent pyramid, nestled in a natural forest with ocean views.
Prepare to be amazed and stargaze all night. Walk down the meandering boardwalk to discover the stunning solid glass pyramid with metal struts nestled in the forest – with its large deck, hot tub, chill net and gas braai, this is a one-of-a-kind option.
Details:Sleeps 2 guests only, it has a deck with outside shower, an eco friendly wood fired hot tub, a chill net and gas braai. There is a king-size bed, two sunken baths overlooking the forest, and a champagne table in the centre.Price range: $$$$
Stay in a cocoon in a forest
The Cocoon in Storms River
The Cocoon, at Misty Mountain Reserve, nestled amidst the lush canopy of trees, offers a truly magical and immersive experience for stargazers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Follow the tree-covered walkway to discover your suspended haven, where you can spend the night swaying gently in the breeze.
Details:Sleeps 2 guests in a King-size bed. Inside the Cocoon, you’ll find all the conveniences of contemporary living, including a TV equipped with Netflix and reliable Wi-Fi.Price range: $$$
Unique accommodation in MPUMALANGA
Stay in a luxury tree house in Sabi Sands …
The Treehouse at Lion Sands
The International Award Winning Lion Sands is situated in one of the finest wilderness areas in the Southern Sabi Sand Game Reserve, the only private reserve to have access to the perennial Sabie River, which it shares with the Kruger National Park.
Open to the wild and the heavens, the treehouse experience is of raw Africa, available at Ivory Lodge.
Details:The Treehouse Experience can booked in conjunction with accommodation at the lodge of your choice, at an additional rate, per person per night. Your room remains ready for your return at any point. You’ll pack a stay-over bag with the essentials, leaving the rest of your belongings back at the lodge.Price range: $$$$$$
Stay in a Bubble Suite …
The Bubble Valley in Piet Retief
The Bubble Valley in Piet Retief provides nature-lovers with a unique experience amidst the Mpumalanga Mountains. The bubble suites offer guests a world-class luxury stay under the beautiful African sky.
Facilities include outdoor spa treatments, a private Jacuzzi and bathroom amenities. Experience nature from the comfort of your Bubble
Details:It’s super cute and intimate with only two “bubbles”. Guests can enjoy stargazing and romantic requests are welcomed.Price range: $$$
Stay in a Shoe!
The Shoe Guest House in Ohrigstad
The Shoe is where the story of the Old Lady comes to life. It contains the furniture of the ‘Old Lady’ which includes things like her bed, dressing table, kitchen with fire place and her baby cradles.
All these furniture items were created and built by artist Ron van Zyl. The Shoe also contains a small museum featuring the history of the Ohrigstad Valley.
Details: The Shoe offers a number of self-catering units for comfortable accommodation. There is an on-site Tea Garden and licensed restaurant serving burgers, sarmies etc. Prica range: $
Unique accommodation in the FREE STATE
Stay in an actual castle …
The Castle in Clarens
Holiday house? How about a holiday castle in Clarens? That’ll do! It’s magical, dramatic, and surrounded by the breath-taking views of the mountains.
This is sure to be unforgettable holiday accommodation! There’s a grand indoor fireplace, little library, and outdoor braai. Every feature is enhanced by gold, cherubs, carved wood, tapestries from Dubai, and other ornate luxuries.
Details:Four-poster beds, baths with a view, and plush furniture. Guests have the entire castle at their disposal. Its a holiday home with 2 en-suite bedrooms, sleeps 4 guests. Everything you’d expect from an upmarket holiday home. Price range: $$$
Stay in a gypsy wagon …
The Gypsy Wagons in Clarens
Glamping is given a whole new face at Gypsy Wagons, where guests get to spend the night in a custom wagon.
Each wagon has a vibe and style of its own as well as a kitchenette, wood-burning oven (or indoor fireplace), and a bathroom. This magical getaway is in Clarens in the Free State, just over three hours from Johannesburg.
Details:There are 4 gypsey wagons each sleeping 2 guests. (Children 10 and older are allowed). The wagons are all insulated keeping them cool in summer and warm in winter. Price range: $$
in the NORTH WEST PROVINCE
Stay overnight surrounded by art …
The Art Guest House in Hartbeespoort Dam
Elsa Cornelissen’s art house is full of art, most of it hers (some of it is for sale), but it isn’t all on her walls. When you stay at The Art House, walk through her sculptured garden and her ‘shangrila’-style accommodation in Hartbeespoort Dam to really get a feel for things.
Well, close enough for you to escape from it all for a weekend or so, and respond to an environment made beautiful by someone with an eye for aesthetic appeal and grace.
Details: A small intimate guest house with only 5 rooms sleeps 10 adults. All units sleep two guests each and contain a fully equipped kitchenette, have air-conditioning and quality linen.Price range: $$
Stay overnight in a castle …
Excalibur Boutique Hotel in Rustenburg
Live out a childhood fairytale when you book a few nights in a fantastical suite in a castle. Grand design and opulent extras are what this boutique hotel in Rustenburg is all about.
Although the suites are majestic and elegant with a distinctive old-world charm, they also have the comforts of air-con and coffee machines.
Details: The hotel offers a choice of air-conditioned en-suite bedrooms, all uniquely decorated and furnished with either a King-size or Queen-size beds. Facilities include a TV with Netflix, a mini bar and Wi-Fi access.Price range: $$$
Unique accommodation in KWAZULU-NATAL
Stay in a tree house …
Sycamore Avenue Treehouses in Mooi River
Jacuzzis, fireplaces and private patios make these elegant tree houses in Mooi River in the Natal Midlands extra special. These quirky retreats are situated amongst the trees of the forest and the fynbos that is endemic to South Africa.
There are views of the Drakensberg Mountains and, in winter, guests may even have a sprinkling of snow over their magical forest setting.
Details:Treehouses sleep 2, 4 or 6 guests each. All units are offered on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis, have spa baths, fireplaces, heaters and complimentary hot refreshments.Price range: $$
Stay in a Zulu palace / art gallery …
Ammazulu African Palace in Durban
Ammazulu African Palace offers totally unique luxury accommodation on the edge of the Kloof Gorge and Krantzkloof Nature Reserve.
The Palace, reflecting on parts of KwaZulu-Natal history, is the vision of Durban artist Peter Amm, who has used his entire collection of Zulu Art and Crafts, incorporated into more than 40 beaded columns of exquisite beauty.
Details:With only 10 suites, the luxury lodge is intimate and provides the traveller with excellent accommodation and a unique experience. Our tip: Wander around the sculpture gardens … you will be totally amazed and awed at the the artist’s talent.Price range: $$$
Stay in a luxury houseboat on Lake Jozini
Shayamanzi Houseboats
Experience the first Houseboat in South Africa – the only one of its kind.
Onboard Shayamanzi Houseboats, soak up the stunning scenery of the Lebombo Mountains and superb wildlife of the Pongola Game Reserve on the shores of Lake Jozini.
Details: Shayamanzi Houseboats offers full board accommodation as well as tiger fishing (in season), a Jacuzzi, two activities per day (fishing, game viewing and bird watching) and transfers from Jozini Tiger Lodge.Price range: $$$$
Stay in a traditional African village …
DumaZulu Lodge & Traditional Lodge in Hluhluwe
Situated in the heart of Zululand, near Hluhluwe, DumaZulu offers an authentic African cultural experience in Hluhluwe. Each self-standing unit is designed to resemble different tribes of Africa, including Zulu, Swazi, North Sotho, Xhosa, Venda, Tsonga and Ndebele.
Each unit also has decor adding rich colours of the earth to the interior, hues of burnt oranges, rich reds and browns add to the tasteful ethnic feel.
Details:Each unit offers a comfortable, pleasant setting with en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, telephones and tea / coffee making facilities. Price range: $$$
Stay in a mangrove beach forest …
Thonga Beach Lodge in Mabibi
Thonga Beach Lodge lies in amongst the coastal forests and lakes of the Isimangaliso World Heritage Park with access to its sandy beaches.
The thatched luxury suites on wooden stilts, based on the local Thonga fishing villages, lies just above the beach in amongst coastal milkwood trees. Why wouldn’t you?
Details: All rooms at Thonga Beach Lodge have private balconies and 2 boast their own private plunge pools. Luxuriously decorated, the rooms exude a romantic ambiance.Price range: $$$$$
Unique accommodation in LIMPOPO
Stay in a castle in the wild …
Castle de Wildt in Modimolle
Castle de Wildt is packed with an abundance of character and charm that feels like it dates back to another era.
The venue works exttemely well as a function venue with ceremony halls, amazing accommodation and a coffee shop will leave you feeling you’ve had a wonderful function or visit.
Details:Charming features, open fires, outdoor dining serving fantastic refreshments they offer a unique experience. Price range: $$$
Stay in a tree house …
Pezulu Tree House Lodge in Hoedspruit
Pezulu is a small, exclusive Tree House Game Lodge situated in the game rich area of the Limpopo Province, only forty minutes away from the world famous Kruger National Park.
No nails have been knocked into the trees, rather the units have been built around the trees, resulting in huge branches which are still growing, passing through the Tree Houses. The Tree houses are ecologically friendly with nothing but wood used in their construction.
Details:The Lodge comprises of unique thatch and reed Tree Houses, including honeymoon and family tree houses. Each tree house has been built to blend with the environment whilst maintaining an element of luxury.Price range: $$$$
Unique accommodation in GAUTENG
Stay in a castle (or the nearest thing)
Castello di Monte in Pretoria
This Italian-style manor is not inappropriately called Castello di Monte. Set on the ridge of Waterkloof, in Pretoria, it can only be described as palatial, and its accommodation as opulent.
Yet the opulence is understated and elegant with hand-painted murals, four-poster beds and a garden beautifully laid out with lavender bushes and olive and lemon trees, to complete the sixteenth century theme.
Details:Which of the luxuriously appointed 5-Star rooms will you choose?Price range: $$$$
Stay in a medieval castle …
Equeen Inn at Castle Da Angelo in Pretoria
At the base of the Magaliesberg Mountain range is the lovely, historic, and picturesque Equeen Inn at Castle Da Angelo Castle.
In a lovely, secure location close to Hartbeespoort, this is a wonderful, medieval location.
Details: The guest house sleeps 32 guests in 14 rooms. Price range: $$
