Mountain view cottages in South Africa ~ South Africa has some of the most spectacular uncharted mountain ranges that often go unpublicised and remain unknown, even to return visitors.
So, it’s almost as easy to find mountain view cottages in South Africa as it is beach house stays. It boils down to whether you’re a mountain, or sea person, really.
But we love the romance of escaping to mountain view cottages where the sense of time stands still, and where there’s peace and quiet enough to catch your breath …
Explore our favourite mountain view cottages in South Africa
… in KwaZulu-Natal
iKhayalamafu in Monks Cowl
High in the Monk’s Cowl Reserve of the central Drakensberg Mountains and closer to paradise than anywhere else in the Champagne Valley. Step from your cabin into the Drakensberg World Heritage Site and walk beneath the dramatic Cathkin Peak and Champagne Castle.
How awesome are these cottages? There are two cottages available, each sleeps 2 guests only. Very popular, please book well in advance.
Montusi Cottages in Bergville
What better place to start than in one of the country’s most photographed ranges of mountains – the Drakensberg. These cottages offer the kind of mountain views South Africans are happy to boast about, one scape after the next. And plenty of hiking opportunities too.
There are six privately owned self-catering cottages. Each cottage has magnificent views of the Drakensberg’s Amphitheatre, a World Heritage site.
Berghouse & Cottages in Northern Drakensberg
High up in the Northern Drakensberg with unique panoramic views and its ideal location halfway between Johannesburg and Durban, this is one of those best-kept secrets in the Drakensberg. Book a stay and go and enjoy these spectacular mountain views and panoramas, as well as the laid-back atmosphere on offer here. You can thank me later!
A choice of cottages sleeping 2, 3 or 4 guests and one that even sleeps 8. Highly recommended, our guests love this venue.
Otters Den in Nottingham Road
Four characterful, secluded self-catering cottages in the unspoilt countryside of the Drakensberg overlooking Lions River. If you’re seeking a peaceful breakaway, then these thatched Mountain view cottages in South Africa with private balconies are up for grabs and very popular (no surprise really, look at that setting!).
If you’re after particularly romantic then have a closer look at Copper Cottage. Otters Den offers four secluded, self-catering cottages sleeping 2 guests each.
Hilltop Cottage in Underberg
Perched on the top of a hill overlooking the breathtakingly picturesque Bushmans Nek valley with unsurpassed views of the Southern Drakensberg Mountains, Hilltop Cottage is perfectly located for your country and mountain getaway.
Loved by our guests who include hiking in their inineraries, the comfortable cottage sleeps 4 guests in 2 bedrooms with 2 bathrooms.
Rockwood Mountain Cabin in Karkloof
Rockwood Mountain Cabin located in the Karkloof Nature Reserve is ideal if your family wants to get away from it all and go hiking up to the beautiful Godwini Falls or mountain bike down some slippery slopes.
The cabin is a 10 minute drive to the start of the Karkloof Canopy Tour and is located on the edge of the forest. Sleeps 6 guests in 3 bedrooms with 2 bathrooms.
… in the Eastern Cape
The Edge in Hogsback
What better mountain area to stay in than high up on the Hogsback Pass in amongst the Amatola Mountains. The Edge Mountain Retreat wins SA-Venues’ best self-catering cottages in Hogsback for the very reason that most of them are literally perched on the edge of the cliff. A cuter mountain view cottage you’re not going to find.
The Edge has a range of self-catering cottages and bed-and-breakfast rooms.
Kleinrivier Mountain Escapes in Groenvlei
Sharing two borders with the Groendal Wilderness Area, Kleinrivier offers you the ideal escape. Redefine the word “tranquillity” as you explore pristine mountain fynbos, rest in the shade of riverine forests or stroll through Karoo tropical thicket. And just lie back and savour those mountain views.
The Tented Camp, Stone Mountain Lodge and Self-catering Cabins (Dassies) give nature lovers of all ages a unique wilderness experience.
… in the Garden Route
Cliffhanger Cottages in Knysna
Cliffhanger Cottages offers a wonderful sense of being far removed from it all with uninterrupted views of the Outeniqua Mountains and lush surrounding forest. Escape to a world of epic sustainable luxury, where you can have the best of both worlds – modern amenities and the serenity of nature.
There are 3 cottages sleeping two guests each. Very private and, for the active, there is plenty to do on site and close by..
Charlesford View in Rheenendal
Charlesford View is a hidden gem where the harmonious blend of birdsong, the majestic Outeniqua mountains, and the unique beauty of the Cape Fynbos create an idyllic retreat. Escape the pace of modern living to take a breather in this blissful countryside, nestled in the secluded district of Rheenendal.
Charlesford View offers four stylish and thoughtfully designed cottages complement the surrounding landscape and seamlessly integrate luxury and natural beauty.
Alkantmooi Keurkloof in Plettenberg Bay
On the hilltop at Alkantmooi Private Nature Reserve you will find yourself surrounded by some of nature’s most exquisite visual displays. Here you can find Alkantmooi Keurkloof, which offers three stunning self catering units with outstanding views.
Alkantmooi Keurkloof offers a selection of three houses each with fantastic views and lots of style.
Ballots Bay Treehouse near George
Ballots Bay Treehouse is a unique beach home set in milkwood trees, perched above a protected pebble beach and the Meul River mouth. A haven for nature lovers, this unique wooden cabin is private and secluded, yet surprisingly close to all modern amenities.
Find yourself totally immersed in nature, while being in the comfort of a private and romantic beach house. Sleeps 4 adults and 2 kids in 3 bedrooms with 2 bathrooms.
… in the Western Cape
Klein Hangklip in Rooi Els
Klein Hangklip is a breath-taking Eco-Cabin in Rooi Els just outside the small seaside town in the Western Cape. Although situated more inland, you are only a few minutes away from the village centre and stunning beaches. Go here for the mountan views!
This eco-cabin is super-cool. It sleeps 4 guests in 2 bedrooms with 1 bathroom. Fully self-catering, its ideal for families.
Overseers Cottage in Constantia
The Overseers Cottage is located in the Table Mountain National Park which is home to a number of small creatures. The Hikers Cottage is a moderate 2 to 2.5 hours walk from Constantia Nek and boasts incredible views.
This is strictly hiking accommodation. The cottage can sleep up to sixteen guests in two fully equipped self catering units that are booked together. Visitors hike up and down the mountain.
Tula Retreat in Calitzdorp
The Klein Karoo will leave guests feeling in awe of the magic around them, at peace with life as it is and inspired by how precious each moment truly is. Awake to the crisp, clean air of this valley, abundant with spekboom. Return to the clarity of your purpose.
Does it get much better than this? It’s a luxury retreat for 2 guests only.
Klipbokkop House in Cederberg
Klipbokkop House at Mount Ceder offers magnificent 360 degree view of the surrounding landscape. It lies within easy reach along the main route through the Cederberg mountain range. Lie back in the hot tub and feel the daily stresses melt away as you marvel at these mountain views.
The luxury holiday home sleeps 6 guests in 3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms. Perfect for a family or group of friends. Book ahead! It’s (obviously) popular is booked up quickly.
Cederkloof Botanical Retreat, Citrusdal
This is mountain view cottages in South Africa exactly as you’d expect them, hidden at the base of the Cederberg Wilderness area on 270 hectares of fynbos and citrus. Not only is there a warm water spring but there’s a 4 km hiking trail that takes you to a viewpoint.
Ten fully equipped chalets, are equipped with a private spring fed Jacuzzi, and enjoy their own private piece of the mountain. Pet-friendly, the cottages sleep 2, 4 or 5 guests.
Camissa Cottage in Stellenbosch
Camissa Farm, which means “place of sweet water” in Khoi, is located in the Banhoek Valley between Stellies and Franschhoek. It is high in the mountains, up in the clouds with a stunning view into the valley itself and across the valley floor to the Simonsberg.
The cottage sleeps 6 guests in 3 bedrooms with 2 bathrooms. A hot tub is placed in the stone boma next to the cabin for you to enjoy a warm bath while taking in the view.
Mountain Cabin in Wolseley
We don’t have to say terribly much about this wooden cabin at the foot of the Witzenberg Mountains close to the Winelands’ town of Wolseley, as the pictures speak for themselves.
This holiday home in Wolseley comprises two bedrooms and two bathrooms, as well as an outdoor shower.
Die Beloofde Land in Uniondale
In the Langkloof in the Little Karoo, reconnect with friends or family and focus on real-life interactions free from the distractions of screens. Experience luxury accommodation on a lifestyle farm in the midst of natural beauty and tranquility. and lose yourself in the serenity and the views of the mountains!
The accommodation comprises 3 free-standing cottages or holiday home sleeping from 2 – 4 guests each. Book one for you and your babe or book all 3 and take the fam.
GlenDonald Cottage in Prince Alfred Hamlet
GlenDonald Cottage offers visitors the opportunity to experience the Cape Floral Kingdom in all its glory. This perfect mountain cottage lies hidden away in the mountains of the Western Cape, one of nature’s best kept secrets, situated at the headwaters of the Olifants River.
It’s a rustic cottage with 6 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, sleeping 12 guests. Pet friendly and kid friendly, but children need to be supervised, especially younger ones.
The Boathouse in Tulbagh
The Boathouse is set against the slopes of the Groot Winterhoek Mountains, part of the Cape Winelands. The farming valley is nestled between three mountains, Groot Winterhoek, Witzenberg and the Obiqua, and is only 90 minutes from Cape Town.
Private and exclusive self cottage which sleeps two guests only. On the lower level there is a ladder to access the water for swimming (swimming towels are provided) as well as a kayak and life jackets for your use.
Melozhori Pods
With nothing but an acacia-shaded valley extending to the Riviersonderend Mountains in the distance, and the sound of chirping birds and rustling leaves to keep you company, Melozhori is the ultimate reprieve.
Each wonderully laid out, very private and stylishly decorated pod sleeps 2 guests. Booked out way in advance so requires planning ahead. But well worth the wait.
Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve
Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve is located in an untouched wilderness area near Ceres, in the Western Cape, renowned for its scenic beauty and dramatic rock formations typical of the Cederberg. Kagga Kamma is equally unique in that it offers guests experiences and facilities they will not find anywhere else.
Book one of the cave suites for the full experience.
… in the Northern Cape
Loapi at Tswalu
Backed by the foothills of the Korannaberg mountains, Loapi is set to become Africa’s top luxury tented safari camp. Offering a true wilderness experience that is both private and exclusive, the camp’s six private safari homes under canvas are positioned to make the most of unimpeded views south across the reserve’s characteristic arid savannah.
Augrabies Falls Rest Camp
The chalets are within walking distance of the main falls and access to some of them have been made wheelchair friendly with an extensive network of boardwalks. Drives take you to scenic viewpoints with descriptive names of this rocky region like Moon Rock, Ararat and Echo Corner.
… in Mpumalanga
Timamoon Lodge in Sabie
This mountains-meet-bushveld lodge is rather magical, and whilst not a cottage definitely fits the bill when it comes to mountain views, access to the Panorama Route, and romance with a capital ‘R’. Off-the-beaten-track mixed with a touch of Zanzibar a stay here has been the highlight of many a visitor’s holiday.
If you’re looking for real privacy try Moon River lodge. Its a wonderful Mountain view cottage in South Africa!
umVangati House
When it comes to Mountain view cottages in South Africa we doubt you’ll find more gobsmacking views than from your mountain view suite.
Not technically cottages, but the suites all have magnificent mountain views and so we had to include this stunning venue!
Angel’s View Earth Grotto Suites
The Earth Grotto Suites offer a unique advantage on the edge of the cliff. The ten Earth Grotto suites at the Angel’s View Hotel in Graskop have phenomenal views and include luxurious bathrooms and an outside shower option for those summer days.
The cool deep verandas offer an escape from the world and the perfect spot to read or birdwatch. Choose one of the Earth Grotto Suites to experience these views!
Mount Sheba House
Sleepily tucked away amongst the mountains above the historic mining town of Pilgrims Rest lies Mount Sheba. Mount Sheba House is a self-catering Mountain view cottages in South Africa offered at Mount Sheba Resort. There is superb hiking, mountain biking along trails through thick indigenous forests, trout fishing, forest picnics and more.
Fenced off, family and pet friendly, the exclusive-use private house sleeps 6 guests in 3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms.
Tanamera Lodge in Hazyview
Follow a winding road into the forest and you shall find Tanamera Lodge, nestled on the malaria-free slopes of the Sabie River Valley. Offering breathtaking Lowveld scenery, Tanamera is a peaceful retreat, perfectly situated for exploring, Kruger National Park and the Panoramic Route on the R536 between Sabie and Hazyview.
Each of the 5 2-sleeper lux chalets is secluded, private and surrounded by the unspoilt indigenous bush – ideal for romantic getaways.
… in Limpopo
Lindani Game & Lodges
Lindani is blessed with varied topography; mountains, valleys, perennial streams and rivers, wetlands, kloofs, towering sandstone cliffs, mountain bushveld, open plains, magnificent trees and rock formations. Maps are provided in each lodge.
The Pods at Thaba eNtle in Thabazimbi
The Pods are located at Thaba eNtle, a private game farm that offers a unique bushveld experience. The Thabazimbi accommodation is offered in a wooden container home that boasts incredible views of the surrounding Thaba eNtle Private Boutique Game Farm.
Tomjachu Bush Retreat near Nelspruit
Tomjachu is an exclusive private estate set in over 1000 acres of game fenced mountain bushveld, located within the Crocodile Valley Nature Conservancy. Just 20 minutes from Nelspruit it overlooks the southern boundary of the Kruger National Park and the great Crocodile River valley.
Different accommodation options available. Whether self-catering or choosing to dine with us in our elegant dining room, with culinary delights served by our superb chef, good food and great atmosphere are assured.
Oriole at Kruger Cliffs in Hoedspruit
Oriole at Kruger Cliffs is ideally located for safari activities in and around Kruger National Park as well as activities in and around the Panorama Route. Enjoy views of the Drakensberg Mountains in the distance from the bedroom windows as they fill the frame.
Oriole sleeps 2 adults in 1 bedroom with 1 bathroom. 2 kids under 12 sharing with parents can be accommodated in Orioke.
Letlapa Stone Lodge in Thabazimbi
Letlapa Stone Lodge is situated on a 3000 hectare game farm, where game such as wildebeest, giraffe, eland, zebra and warthogs can be viewed. At the lodge there are splendid views of the surrounding area.
Letlapa Stone Lodge sleeps two guests. There is large deck that has outdoor seating, braai facilities as well as a private splash pool.
… in Gauteng
Wild Syringa in Magaliesburg
Wild Syringa in Magaliesburg is suitable for two guests looking for a tranquil haven away from the city. This rustic, secluded, private, log cabin styled cottage is located in the Buffelsfontein District of the Magaliesberg region in Gauteng.
The cottage sleeps 2 adults in one bedroom with 1 bathroom.
… in the Free State
Dynasty Red Mount Lodge
More of a ranch than mountain view cottage, this three-bedroom mountain holiday home in Clarens lies up against Golden Gate National Park. There’s a cosy fireplace for winter months and mountain views from any and every room. Perfect.
This cottage / house sleeps 6 guests in 3 bedrooms with 3 bathrooms.
The French Cottage in Clarens
The French Cottage Clarens is built in country French style with the iconic Clarens sandstone. The property is home to a large overhanging cave with bushman paintings and perennial waterfall as well as an orchard and forest.
The French Cottage sleeps 6 guests in 3 bedrooms with 2 bathrooms..
St Fort Farm in Clarens
At St Fort Farm you will experience Eastern Free State hospitality at its finest. Time is measured by the sun and the changing seasons, and things happen as they should, slow and steady. Not surprisingly, St Fort has always been characterized as an open home with warm hospitality and a big heart. Stepping onto St Fort takes one back to a bygone era when life was simpler.
There are three cottages at St Fort. Choose between the 2, 4 or 6 sleeper fully equipped and fitted self-catering cottages.
… in the North West
Phefumula Retreat in Maanhaarrand
We recommend Rhino Fields at this retreat for the mountain and bush views. It has a large living area, well equipped, built in breakfast bar, lounge/dining area with a very large fireplace ideal for chilly evenings.
The expansive patio has a built in braai and bar as well as a plunge pool ideal for cooling off in the Magalies heat and a romantic heated bath in the garden under a mosquito net.
Geranium Cottage in Rutenburg
Last on our list of Mountain view cottages in South Africa, Geranium Cottage is nestled against the southern slopes of the Magaliesberg Mountains 3 km off the R24, between Magaliesburg and Rustenburg. With the cliffs of the Magaliesberg as a backdrop, natural bush, beautiful garden setting and 360 degree panoramic views, tranquillity reigns.
The cosy cottage sleeps 2 guests in 1 bedroom with 1 bathroom.
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