Room with a View
Pictures courtesy of CapeNature. Article from the Winter 2012 issue of Wild Magazine.
Enjoy the breathtaking vistas from these rest camps in our parks.
1. Oudebosch Cabins, Kogelberg Nature Reserve
At Kogelberg it’s not so much a case of looking at a view as of finding yourself within it. Surrounded by vibrant fynbos and soaring mountain peaks, the new wooden cabins have large decks and windows on all sides so wherever you look your eye falls on a pretty scene.
The eco-cabins are beautifully made from alien timber and feature environmentally friendly elements such as solar energy and a sod roof. Kogelberg is a hiker’s paradise and in winter the Palmiet River that offers rafting.
Rates: From R1 300 a night for four people
Contact: 0861-CAPENATURE (0861-227-362-8873)
2. Galjoen Lodge, Goukamma Nature Reserve
Situated up on a ridge overlooking the tranquil Goukamma River and sparkling Indian Ocean, Galjoen Lodge has views you can get lost in. From the large deck you can scan for southern right whales and birds such as Knysna turaco and African marsh harrier. Accommodation in the reserve has recently been renovated and the comfortable interiors now complement the beauty of the panorama outside. The best way to see the reserve is by kayak, for hire from the office.
Rates: Off-peak base rate R800 for one to four people a night, peak rate R1 500
Contact: 0861-CAPENATURE (0861-227-362-8873)
“Galjoen Lodge has the best river and ocean views in Goukamma.” – Goukamma Conservation Manager Keith Spencer
3. Hilltop Camp, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park
Looking out from among the trees, Hilltop’s chalets have a commanding view of the rolling hills and valleys of Zululand. As its name suggests, the camp is located high up on a steep slope; down below the Big Five roam the plains. Take a cup of coffee out onto your veranda to look for the birds that abound in the scarp forest. Afternoon tea on the deck outside the restaurant may reward you with sightings of elephants. For once, you could be looking down on them.
Rates: Two-bed chalet R960 for one person, R320 for an additional person
Contact: Central Reservations 033-845-1000
4. Thendele Rest Camp, Royal Natal National Park
The 5 km wide rockface of the Amphitheatre is the eye-catching backdrop for the Drakensberg at its most picturesque. Within the mountain’s rugged embrace, clear streams twinkle in the sunlight while soft grasses adorn the foothills. Each chalet of Thendele Camp looks out onto the awe-inspiring expanse of the mountains. There are several hiking routes for visitors keen on a closer view.
Rates: Two-bed chalet R745 for one person a night, R250 for second person
Contact: Central Reservations 033-845-1000
5. Olifants Rest Camp, Kruger National Park
Perched like an eagle in its eyrie, this camp looks down on the broad ribbon of the Olifants River winding its way through the mopane below. Choose one of the river-view rondavels situated right on the perimeter and you’ll be able to watch animal comings and goings from your stoep. Regular visitors say units nine to 12 are the best. Even if you can’t secure one of these, you can still drink in the view from the restaurant terrace.
Rates: R980 base rate for 1 or 2 people a night
Contact: Central Reservations 012-428-9111
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