We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The Tripadvisor website may not display properly.We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge

avatar-imageavatar-imageavatar-image
Traveller (488)
Dining (52)
Room & Suite (44)

View prices for your travel dates

Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.

About

#2 of 15 lodges in Oudtshoorn
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value
This is where you will find one of the most amazing hideaways in the Western Cape. It is a perfect stop over between Cape Town and Addo Elephant Part. Set amongst the mountains and the famous red Enon hills surrounded by game and nature - a secret place of magnificent views, glorious sunsets, and star filled nights without a single city light to distract you. Wonderful encounters with wildlife, fabulous food, long nights around the blazing fire and yet a mere 20 minutes away from the bustling town of Oudtshoorn. Other major attractions that are easily accessible from us is the exhilarating Swartberg Pass, the winey road through the wonders of Meiringspoort, the glorious Cango Caves and hysterical Ostriches. All this makes Oudtshoorn the tenth most visited region in South Africa If you are looking for a rustic, true African experience with breathtaking views then you have come to the right place. If you are looking for a Tourist Graded 5* luxury lodge this is not the place for you, but we do endeavour to give you all the comforts that you might need and our guests have definitely rated us 5*. There are plenty of activities to do whilst here, swimming, hiking, reading on your deck, watching the animals, and soaking up the scenery. There are board games and books to keep the children entertained. Our main lodge/dining area is where we light our nightly fires and serve dinner and breakfast with the added bonus of watching the animals dine aswell. This makes every evening a special occasion. We can also arrange tours at local tourist attraction sites, eg Cango Caves, Ostrich farms, Giraffe and/or Elephant feeding so please contact us directly for more information on these.
Read more
Suggest edits to improve what we show.Improve this listing
Property amenities
Free parking
Free wifi in the business centre
Pool with view
Restaurant
Bicycles available
Hiking
Airport transportation
Light therapy
Secured parking
Pool / beach towels
Outdoor pool
Shallow end in pool
Fence around pool
Breakfast available
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Horseback riding
Bicycle tours
Darts
Walking tours
Board games / puzzles
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Gift shop
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
First aid kit
Private check-in / check-out
Clothes dryer
Laundry service
Ironing service
Show more
Room features
Blackout curtains
Air conditioning
Housekeeping
Safe
Seating area
Coffee / tea maker
Extra long beds
Walk-in shower
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Private bathrooms
Refrigerator
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Show more
Room types
Mountain view
Non-smoking rooms
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Mid-range
Charming
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans, Dutch, German
557Reviews1Q+A80Room tips
Traveller rating
  • 483
  • 60
  • 11
  • 2
  • 1
Time of year
Traveller type
Language
  • More
Selected filters
  • Filter
  • English
Popular mentions
Sort by:
Most Recent
avatar-image
Albert & Suné Botes wrote a review 4 Mar
Stellenbosch, South Africa1 contribution
+1
A very pleasant experience. The hosts went out of their way to give us the best time possible and the food was top class. Sitting on the deck watching the sun set with a fire on the foreground is the essence of a trip to SA and you surely get it there. We did the hike on the farm and that was really beautiful. Those rock formations are just so impressive. We were quite surprised with the amount of animals roaming in this part of the country. Being locals and frequent visitors to the Kruger, the animals were nice, but not what the visit was about for us. The cottages are comfortable and takes care of all your needs.
Read more
Date of stay: February 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Management ZVML, Owner at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge
Responded 1 week ago
Thank you for this great review. We are glad you enjoyed your stay with us. I must agree with you the rock formations are beautiful. We are also glad you enjoyed the hiking trail we are developing another this year We are looking forward to you next visit. Kind regards Varley& Hannalize and staff
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
avatar-image
claudia G wrote a review 2 Mar
2 contributions
+1
Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge offers an unforgettable retreat amidst breathtaking scenery. The lodge itself is not just beautiful but thoughtfully equipped, ensuring a comfortable stay. The food served is nothing short of amazing, adding a culinary delight to the overall experience. However, what truly elevates the experience is the dedication and generosity of the hosts, Varley and Hannalize. Their commitment to ensuring guests have a memorable stay is evident in every detail, from providing insider tips to making bookings for various activities. Their warm hospitality truly makes guests feel at home. Overall, Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge exceeded our expectations, and we hope to return someday. We highly recommend it to anyone seeking a truly unforgettable getaway experience.
Read more
Date of stay: February 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Management ZVML, Owner at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge
Responded 1 week ago
Hi Claudia Thank you for this great review of our Lodge. We know it takes your valuable time to do this review. It was great hosting you and your lovely family. We are also happy that we could have contribute to your memories and your stay. We enjoy all our chats. Looking forward to see you some time back here in the future. Kind regards Varley&Hannalize and staff
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
avatar-image
Anna M wrote a review Feb 2024
1 contribution
We had an amazing time here! Everything was perfect, the chalet, the animals, the food and especially the hosiptality of Varley and Hannalize made our stay unique. Our children enjoyed It as much as we did. We can definitely recommend the giraffe feeding.
Read more
Date of stay: February 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Management ZVML, Owner at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge
Responded 1 week ago
Thank you very much for this great review and we appreciate the fact that you took precious time to write this. It was great hosting you. We are so happy that your children enjoy the giraffe feeding, it is a highlight. We hope to see you in the future again. Stay safe Varley&Hannalize and staff
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
avatar-image
Peter B wrote a review Feb 2024
Cape Town Central, South Africa2 contributions
We have traveled a lot in South Africa, but the view from the lodge is unique. The walk through the small game resort is an absolute must, fantastic! The hosts are very helpful and know a lot about what to do. The food is just amazing. .
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Management ZVML, Owner at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge
Responded 4 weeks ago
Hi Thank you so much for this great review. We appreciate the fact that you took time to do this review. We are also really glad you enjoyed your stay with us. We try to make each guest's stay as memorable as possible and I must agree we o have fantastic views and the hiking trail is great in the morning with all the animal around you. We are looking forward seeing you again sometime in the future. Stay safe and Kind regards The Varley Family and staff
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
avatar-image
Ulrich F wrote a review Jan 2024
1 contribution
Hannalize and Varley are special hosts. Everything is designed with great attention to detail. We were well looked after in all respects. The bookings for animal expeditions were also made for us. The small animal park on the lodge is like a small family. Especially the giraffe Melman. The kitchen of the hosts is great. The chalet we had conveyed in the best sense the idea of Africa. We'll be back. Monika and Ulrich from Germany
Read more
Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Management ZVML, Owner at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge
Responded 4 weeks ago
Hi Monika & Ulrich Firstly thank so much for this great review. We also appreciate the fact that you took your valuable time to write this great review. It was our pleasure to host you and we enjoyed every moment of it.Yes Melman is everyone's favorite and he knows it.It is also our pleasure to arrange for you excursions etc . We are looking forward to your return and you are welcoming to book direct with me in the future Stay safe Kind regards Varley&Hannalize and staff
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
avatar-image
lucabaccarelli wrote a review Jan 2024
Perugia, Italy9 contributions
We spent a night in this corner of paradise, it was a great stay and a superb immersive experience in the nature. The chalet is cozy and very well made, all the services perfect. The food amazing and the family very warm in welcoming us like part of them.
Read more
Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Management ZVML, Owner at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge
Responded 4 weeks ago
Hi Firstly thank so much for this great review. We also appreciate the fact that you took your valuable time to write this great review. It was for us an honour to host you. It is always a pity if you only come for one day as then it is impossible to really enjoy the lodge and surroundings, but we understand if a person is on a tide schedule. We also try to make everyone feel at home so that they can enjoy this little gem of a place, like we enjoy it. We are looking forward to your return and you are welcoming to book direct with me in the future Stay safe Kind regards Varley&Hannalize and staff
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
avatar-image
stanvan wrote a review Dec 2023
George ,South Africa26 contributions84 helpful votes
We , two couples semi ",retired " stayed with Varley and Hannalize and their team at the lodge just outside De Rust last weekend . From the very onset of our reservation the hospitality service level was exceptional. they even enquired as to our incoming route and then supplied concise photographic and descriptive directions right up to the game security gate . The Two chalets we occupied, were SPOTLESS and more than well appointed, with what my wife terms " attention to detail "especially for a game farm- we ourselves have 28 years experience in hospitality and it was the consensus that the photographs on the web site do not do the accommodation provided , full justice .... Loved the concept of being able to stroll out into the hills and Fynbos as sun sets or early morning , passing Giraffe and Buck and the TOTAL peace and tranquility that surrounds oneself at this venue. Then what to say about the meals we partook in , at the main lodge or the lovely intermate bar and deck area with its blazing fire after dark and the flood light water hole where the resident wild life seem to congregate, early evening . The meal provided us was vastly more and superbly created and tabled by Hannalize, than we could have expected . Even the breakfast had that "extra" consideration one would normally only get in a 5 Star hotel, let a bush lodge . When checking in, we overheard a foreign couple explaining they did not have a reservation, but just arrived from a close by accommodation establishment that they booked online- on its photographs but they stated " we could not stay there , it was bad"... needless to say , we noted they were accommodated and infract stayed on a Zwartberg Mountain lodge, which in itself says it all ..... Other than we will be back for a longer stay next time as this is a Gem .
Read more
Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with friends
Room Tip: Arrive as early as possible to experience the full facilities and breath the mountain air also...
See more room tips
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Management ZVML, Owner at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge
Responded 25 Dec 2023
Dear Stan Thank you so much for this great review and we appreciate the fact that you took your valuable time to write this review. Most of all we are so happy you enjoyed your stay with us. We try to make every persons stay memorable and nothing is to much effort for us. We really enjoyed all the story around the fire over a glass of good wine. We really hope to see you here again in the future . Even if it is just over a cup of good coffee . Stay safe till we meet again. Varley & Hannalize and Staff
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
avatar-image
Katrien wrote a review Dec 2023
6 contributions1 helpful vote
+1
Amazing place, even when arriving you saw a welcome fire burning against the stars . Hannelize is a wonderfull cook, we enjoyed the delicious food in this awesome setting, while looking at the animals . The beds where very good, and the only reason off a bad sleep is being to busy to look at the stars and the milky way.
Read more
Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled with friends
Room Tip: stay long enough :-)
See more room tips
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Management ZVML, Owner at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge
Responded 25 Dec 2023
Firstly thank you so much for what is in reality an excellent review, we deeply appreciate the time it took you to write it ! And the fact that you enjoyed your stay,with us, is so valuable for us as we strive to make each person's stay perfect and memorable as possible, for them. You were great guest and we love it to entertained you. And yes I must agree the stars are something to see, specially as it is so bright due to nou light or any pollution. We hope to see you again. Be safe till we meet again.Kind regards Varley,Hannalize and Staff
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
avatar-image
JanZe001 wrote a review Nov 2023
Cologne, Germany1 contribution
We really enjoyed our stay. In addition to the great experience of observing various animals in the garden, we felt very comfortable in the family atmosphere and would come here again. Best regards Isabel & Jan
Read more
Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Try the really nice dinner!
See more room tips
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Management ZVML, Owner at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge
Responded 29 Nov 2023
Dear Jan and Isabel, thank you so much for this excellent review, we really appreciate the time it took you to write it! You come here as guests and left as friends. We really enjoyed the talks and serving you. It was our honour to be your host.We really hope to see you soon. Even if it is just to come and drink a coffee or something to see what is new as we are constantly improving and upgrading the facilities etc. and to make sure that your stay here is something special and something to remember for the rest of your life. Warm regards Varley, Hannalize, Franco and Staff
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
avatar-image
JanW wrote a review Nov 2023
Innsbruck, Austria12 contributions16 helpful votes
Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge is more expensive than the average guesthouse in the Western Cape, is a complaint I have read. This is true, but, obviously, ZWML is not an average guesthouse. Its location is unique: it is located in the mountains 25 km outside of Oudtshoorn. There are 4 separate apartments with their own decks that give stunning views over the mountains. The garden is populated with many animals, so you can see a giraffe or zebras or antilopes when sipping your morning coffee. It is very quiet and very good for birdwatching. The owners are very friendly and take a great effort to ensure you have an enjoyable stay, whether with sightseeing tips, providing you with nice wine, or preparing a good steak on the fire. They are well-organized: e.g. they send you a good route description before you travel to them. The apartments are not terribly big, but have comfortable beds and well-functioning airco. Wifi works well, but only in the restaurant. You can park your car next to your apartment. The area is locked with an automatic gate to keep the animals in. We found the price-quality quite good, as we appreciated the beautiful location in nature and the very personal treatment. If you want a luxurious urban holiday resort, this is not for you.
Read more
Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Share
Response from Management ZVML, Owner at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge
Responded 29 Nov 2023
Hallo Wim, thank you so much for this excellent review, and thank you for taking the time to write it! We always try to go the extra mile to satisfy our guests and give them only the best. it was a pleasure for us to be of service to you. We look forward to your next visit. Yes I must agree with you that we aren't the average Guesthouse /Lodge. The animals makes us unique and specially waking up with them around you or enjoying that first cup of coffee while watching them. My wife and I still cannot get used to it, as it feel so unreal. Hope you have a great stay further in SA, Warm regards Varley,Hannalize, Franco and staff
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Previous
123456
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Oudtshoorn area.
PRICE RANGE
S$230 - S$280 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
South AfricaWestern CapeOudtshoorn
NUMBER OF ROOMS
5
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

Claim Your Listing

ZWARTBERG VIEW MOUNTAIN LODGE: UPDATED 2024 Hotel Reviews, Price Comparison and 529 Photos (Oudtshoorn, South Africa) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge
Which popular attractions are close to Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge?
Nearby attractions include Karen Muir Pottery and Herb Nursery (6.3 km) and Karen Muir Pottery (6.3 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include an on-site restaurant, free parking, and airport transportation.
Which room amenities are available at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a refrigerator, and blackout curtains.
What food & drink options are available at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, breakfast, and barbeque facilities during their stay.
Is parking available at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to an outdoor pool during their stay.
Does Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are any cleaning services offered at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge?
Yes, laundry service and a clothes dryer are offered to guests.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, German, Dutch, and Afrikaans.
Does Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the mountain view available here.