Explore the breathtakingly beautiful and botanically diverse Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve.
Nestled on the banks of the Palmiet River and neighbouring the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, The River Retreat’s two off-grid, self-catering cottages are perfectly poised for botanical exploration, hiking, mountain biking and swimming in the river…
….or quite simply relax, unwind and tune in to the naturally healthy rhythm of the wilderness.
“We could happily live in Upstream forever! Our cottage is beautiful, the attention to detail is incredible, the views are unforgettable, the morning river swims are sublime and the fynbos makes us feel as if we are part of the most exquisite painting.”
GENINE AND STEVE
ABOUT THE RIVER RETREAT
SELF-CATERING COTTAGES
A member of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve
The River Retreat self-catering cottages are perfectly situated to explore the various surrounding reserves within the UNESCO Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve and are based next door to Cape Nature’s Kogelberg Nature Reserve. This reserve is a World Heritage Site and considered to be the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom with approximately 1800 plant species of which 150 are endemic or noteworthy.
Our two riverside cottages, Upstream and Downstream, were sensitively built in timber with the critically endangered Kogelberg Sandstone Fynbos ecosystem in mind and with the aim of having as little an impact on the receiving environment as possible. The interiors focus on natural simplicity with a light and fresh finish and a relaxing colour palette which blends seamlessly into the landscape. Amenities and decor elements have been consciously curated for their environmental-ethics as well as supporting local NGOs, design, art and craft.
Each cottage is set privately in the fynbos with sweeping mountain views and easy access to the river, ideal for nature loving couples and those just needing to escape for some peace and quiet in the mountains. Yet the cottages are near enough to walk to eachother should you wish to rent out both. In this way, The River Retreat is also well suited to hiking groups or two families of four, accommodating a maximum of eight people.
