South Hill Vineyards' chic new houseboat is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and water babies

4 Aug 2020

The recently-added houseboat accommodation option at South Hill Vineyards,a member of Cape Country Routes, in the charming Elgin Valley needs to be added to your secluded social distancing getaway list now that leisure travel has opened up.

I recently enjoyed a two-night stay aboard this refurbished off-the-grid, solar-powered original Langebaan houseboat and can only recommend it for outdoor lovers and water babies.

South Hill Vineyards' chic new houseboat is the perfect getaway for nature lovers and water babies

Boasting three bedrooms, which can sleep up to eight, six adults or two adults and four children (though I feel a max of four may be the most comfortable space-wise) a spacious living area, well-equipped kitchen, indoor fireplace and a braai and fire pit area on the banks of the dam, you have all you need for a secluded self-catering getaway in nature.

Birdwatch from bed

The permanently moored houseboat has been refurbished in a chic, nautical Scandi style with lots of natural wood and neutral colours and boasts beautiful views of the Kogelberg mountains and vineyards seen from decks leading off the three bedrooms. Watching baby ducks float by from bed was truly magical.

What sets this accommodation apart from others and its major drawcard are the options of many water sports. A kayak, SUPs, snorkel, flippers and pool pillows are all included in the price of the stay allowing for catch and release bass fishing, and much fun upon the dam waters. While a spacious deck with comfy loungers, umbrellas and a rooftop sun deck offer great sunbathing and R&R opportunities.

Tip: Grab a pool pillow and blanket and head to the sundeck at night to see a truly magnificent starry night sky.

A stay usually includes a wine tasting of the South Hill range of wines. However, as alcohol sales and public drinking is currently not permitted this offering is not currently available.

Bookings and enquiries

Cost: R4,500 per night (until end Sept 2020, from 1 st Oct – end April 2021 R4860 per night) for the full House Boat (minimum stay: two nights over Friday/ Saturday weekend and public holidays). Individual room night rate is available during the week, please enquire for further information. Contact or 021 844 0888

South Hill also offers a secluded honeymoon cottage and a luxurious six-roomed guesthouse.

For more info go to southhill.co.za or capecountryroutes.com

*Ruth Cooper was a guest of South Hill Vineyards and Cape Country Routes