Bastiaanskloof

TRIPADVISOR LISTED (NOT RATED)

I was delighted to be visited by two tortoises and a mongoose within hours of my arrival in this sublime 2 500-hectare private nature reserve, at the bottom of the Bainskloof Pass. Owner Caroline Swanson has developed the accommodation and swimming facilities with care, and diligently manages them. The four options are beautifully decorated, in tip-top condition and well stocked – from the choice between Nespresso and plunger (with pods and filter coffee) to the freshly baked loaf of bread, olive oil and milk in the fridge, there is great generosity. Deep within the fold of the mountains is purpose-built India House (pictured) – this is definitely the most beautiful house in the valley, and well worth the price tag; about 100 metres away but visually private is cosy Kraal Cottage. A little further along the pass are the other two cottages. They’re a little close to the road but walking distance to the Witte River’s swimming holes. Caroline has placed chairs on the grassy banks overlooking the water – a wonderful place to while away an afternoon as the mountains turn pink. Socialised dogs are welcome, and there are two hiking trails on the property. ROOM TIP India House is the most famous but I loved dinky, one-bedroomed Kraal Cottage – très romantic, with a fireplace in the bedroom. COST Kraal Cottage from R1 000 (sleeps two), India House from R5 700 (sleeps six), Restio from R1 250 (sleeps four), Wild Olive from R1 000 (sleeps four). CONTACT bastiaanskloof.co.za