Just 3 hours from Cape Town on one of the country’s most beautiful drives, snuggled on South Africa’s lesser-known western coastline within the picturesque Cederberg mountain range, is the stunning Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve and Wellness Retreat.
Malaria and predator-free, this family-owned wilderness retreat is a wealth of wonder, bursting with ancient African culture, dramatic landscapes and outstanding nature experiences, set within 7,000 hectares of flourishing flora and fauna. Home to mystical rock formations, crystal-clear waterfalls and the world’s largest outdoor art gallery, with over 130 ancient rock art sites dating back 10,000 years, endless adventure awaits eager travelers.
The journey to Bushmans Kloof provides one of the most scenic routes in South Africa and delivers the perfect prelude to a guests’ stay. Highlights include the laid-back village of Paternoster – the unlikely home of some of the country’s best restaurants, pristine sandy beaches, and a fascinating nature reserve – as well as Clanwilliam, one of the oldest towns in South Africa.
Bushmans Kloof harnesses the unique feel of this part of the world and provides a pure and deeply relaxing African experience. With only 16 rooms and suites, accommodating a maximum of 32 guests, this is a truly exclusive establishment.
Included in the accommodation options are two private villas, namely the Koro Lodge and new Cederberg House. Situated away from the main area of the reserve, these fully-inclusive villas provide privacy and comfort and come complete with a personal guide, chef and private swimming pools.
The property also has an exceptional onsite spa, with treatments drawing on ancient Africa traditions and using native products such as baobab tree oil, mafura butter, cape aloe and rooibos. The secluded Riverside Gazebo is ideal for couples seeking an alfresco, side-by-side treatment while taking in panoramic views from the outdoor spa gazebo, perched alongside the tranquil waters of the Boontjes River. Guests also have access to the crystal steam room, heated outdoor pool, health bar, fitness centre and tranquillity lounge.
The healing properties of Bushmans Kloof are unique; guests inhale the beauty of their surroundings by walking with wildlife and enriching their minds with tales of ancient Bushmen. A predator and malaria-free UNESCO World Heritage Site, guests can enjoy invigorating outdoor activities including nature drives, hiking trails, mountain biking, fishing, canoeing, and swimming in clear rock pools. They also have access to exquisite bushman paintings and on-site Heritage Centre, which includes permanent exhibits, photographs and specialist talks.
Dining experiences are extensive and include much-loved family recipes created by the owners. Unique venues are set up throughout the property, each thoughtfully designed in harmony with the natural attributes of the Cederberg Mountains. Dining at Embers, guests can savour contemporary Cape cuisine within a natural sandstone amphitheatre. Accompanied by a roaring fire and a myriad of candles and lanterns under the vast canopy of stars, this is Africa at its most seductive and transforming. The property rounds out its extraordinary culinary offerings with high tea; wine tastings; traditional South African braais, or barbecues; and guided tours of the organic garden.
Rates at Bushmans Kloof start from R5,220 (approximately £282) per night on a full board basis. Click here to book.
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Bushmans Kloof is part of Red Carnation Hotels and offers a perfect South African circuit with Red Carnation’s Cape Town hotel The Twelve Apostles and The Oyster Box in Durban. In June 2020, Red Carnation will open Xigera Safari Lodge in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Botswana.