These four-, six- and eight-sleeper chalets are spacious with modern amenities and a fully equipped open-plan kitchen, braai area and undercover gas braai on the balcony. Fronted by the Breede River and spacious lawns, the chalets are spaced out to ensure a reasonable amount of privacy. Relax on the loungers, in the lounge with its TV (with DStv) and fireplace or take a short walk across the lawn to the outdoor spa bath overlooking the river.
We stayed in the eight-sleeper double-storey chalet, with its large en suite master bedroom, which includes an in-room bath and open-plan basin and shower area – definitely my favourite room. The two upstairs twin rooms share a bathroom and the double room downstairs has an adjacent bathroom. The airy lounge with comfy couches and a dining table has a view of the river, so sunsets are a treat.
Activities include paddling on the Breede River (at only R100 for two hours, I recommend you give this a go), fishing, cycling (bikes can be hired) and there’s a jungle gym, little pool and trampoline for kids.
If you’re up for hiking, the 2,5-kilometre Green Trail is easy and there are benches and some swimming and fishing spots along the way. You’ll need to be reasonably fit for the Red Trail, a six-kilometre, two-and-a-half hour walk.
It’s a really quiet and spacious family holiday spot you could go easily back to year after year. It’s close to Swellendam and visits into the town make for a great outing. There’s free wi-fi in all units. need to know You’ll have to walk up stairs to get to the entrance to each chalet, so it’s not wheelchair friendly. Kids have to be watched around the river.
On the longer walking trail you may spot bontebok, eland, red hartebeest, springbok and zebra. Fishing rods and reels are available at reception for a small fee.
What it costs to stay at Stonehill River Lodge
Self-catering from R1 600 to R1 800 a unit a night (sleeps four to eight).
Stonehill River Lodge contact details
Tel 011-267-8500, email [email protected], www.dreambreaks.co.za.
