Every year we set off at Springtime to venture into one of our much loved parts of South Africa, to places where you would ordinarily just drive by en-route to your destination without a sideways glance. It is incredible to witness the absolute miracle of Nature occurring after the winter rains when these otherwise arid barren landscapes are transformed into dazzling colorful carpets of color that dance in the wind and sing to the soul “its Spring, its Spring”!

We bring to you some of our favorite places to stay, some more secretive than others, where you will be best located to explore the annual Spring flowers at your own time and pace with your family, friends and loved ones. We suggest you take your time to stay a couple of days in each spot as there is much to enjoy in these laidback little villages, farms and wilderness reserves where life takes on a slower rhythm and there is time to connect with real people, farm to table food, yourself, and the magnificent Nature all around you.

We can advise and book any of these beautiful places for you. Just contact us to chat further about your Springtime dreams and ideas.

Ps: the best time to plan your flower Springtime break is from beginning August to mid-September. If the rains are prolonged then the season can extend to end of September.

Oudrif Strawbale Retreat Cederberg: If getting as close as possible to Nature with a minimal carbon footprint appeals to you then a peaceful off the grid cottage built out of eco -friendly straw bales at Oudrif Nature Farm in the Cederberg is your answer. Located on the Doring River in the middle of the mountains where rockart paintings lie hidden in caves and the stars shine in a dazzling display at night, we love Oudrif for its off the beaten track vibe yet with all comforts vibe, friendly hosts Janine and Bill, the wholesome food and barbecues shared around a large table, the silence and incredible beauty. Its like having your very own private retreat in Nature. Prices from R1350 per person incl all meals.

Yellow Aloe Clanwilliam: This lovely guest house located in the village of Clanwilliam is one of our favorite places to stay. Why ? Because of its magical beautiful garden created by the owner Cheryl and surrounding your accommodation ( and breakfast table ! ) with the sounds of birdsong, butterflies and bees. Its also literally across the road from the church where the famous Clanwilliam Flower Show takes place end of August. Chat to us about booking private story telling walks in the village, wine tasting and guided flower trips in the mountains.  Prices from R850 per person incl breakfast.

Naries Namaqua Retreat: Naries is a beautiful & romantic hideaway on the edge of the Spektakelberg in northern Namaqualand. Staying in one of their Namaqua Mountain Suites is a unique and pampering experience. Apart from exploring the wildflowers this region is also rich in succulents which are found amongst spectacular scenery. Guide shipwreck and flower tours can also be booked. Prices from R2800 per person incl dinner and breakfast.

Koro Lodge Bushmanskloof Reserve: The ultimate pampering luxury stay awaits you at Koro Lodge in Bushmanskloof Reserve. Located in a quiet corner of the reserve with panoramic views, making it ideal for family escapes your stay at Koro Lodge is fully inclusive, with you very own chef, lodge host and wilderness guide on hand to help you create your very own Springtime experience ( think private picnics amongst the flowers, cycling and walking or even canoeing, game drives and rockart ). The Lodge can host up to six adults maximum and four children. Prices on request.

!Ah Guest House Paternoster: A gem in the quaint little fishing village of Paternoster on the West Coast, !AH Guest House is run by owners Annelise and Arnold who also happens to be an incredible chef. You are a hop and skip to the beach and the Cape Columbine Reserve is on your doorstep for walking and exploring. We love AH’s warm hospitality and home cooked cuisine. Prices from R850 per person incl breakfast.

Churchhaven West Coast National Park: We fell in love with this tiny hamlet on the lagoon with its white washed church, warm waters and iconic palm trees many years ago and although many of its properties have been modernized, Churchhaven still retains it barefoot beach charm. Located on the protected bird and marine sanctuary side of Langebaan Lagoon you can enjoy complete tranquility and relaxation with the flowers of the park and Postberg on your doorstep. Accommodation here is self -catering and ranges from a beautifully fully equipped beach villa to a simple cottage or even a house boat on the lagoon. Prices on request.

Papkuilsfontein Farm Niewoudtville:  This special farm and botanical haven for flowering bulbs has been in the Van Wyk family for generations and their love and authentic custodianship of the land is reflected in the beautifully restored authentic stone cottages dotted around the farm. There is a hiking trail through sandstone rock formations where you can see flowers, birds, animals and rockart. You can mountain bike or just relax on your front stoep and soak up the flowers to your hearts content. During flower season the family open up a guest house nearby where you can have all your meals. Prices from R1350 per person incl dinner and breakfast.

Kersfontein Farm West Coast: Time stands still as you enter through the gateposts of Kersfontein Farm and the grace and beauty of a bygone era envelops you. Located near Hopefield on the banks of the Berg River this is the ultimate place to unwind with good farm to table food, long walks along country paths or boating on the picturesque Berg River. Every Spring thousands of waterbirds flock to the river and the fields abound in countless wild flowers. Prices from R1050 per person incl dinner and breakfast.