Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge

About Us

Story Behind Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge

History shapes who we are, and it is with this in mind that we share the story of our lodge. This is the history as far as we can trace, based on the most accurate records available.

Our story begins with Jann Barder, who, in May 2008, found himself in the Klein Karoo, between Oudtshoorn and De Rust, by accident. His caravan had broken down, and while waiting for repairs, he saw the potential to create a beautiful private game lodge from scratch. At the foot of the Swartberg Mountains, with its stunning star-filled night skies, Jann built and successfully managed this unique lodge until 2016.

In Des 2016, Jann sold the property to Chris& Belinda Bal, who further developed the lodge by building the Kudu Chalet and a larger, new lodge with a swimming pool.

In 2020, the Varley family took over ownership on May 15th, right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Their vision was to elevate the lodge’s status to a 4-star property by joining the South African Tourism Bureau and becoming part of the international grading system. Since then, they have worked hard to upgrade the roads, chalets by installing aircons and panel heaters, the lodge by installing panel doors isolation in the roof and a ceiling, Building a foyer and new parking area , and other facilities.

But their vision doesn’t stop there. The Varley’s have big plans for the future, including the addition of a spa, a gym, an expanded restaurant, a large wine cellar, new camping sites, and much more. Their goal is to make this a destination where guests can come to relax and experience peace and tranquility in an exceptional setting.

If you are interested in the history of the lodge then click the button below

View History

From the moment you turn off the Vergelegen Road onto the windy track over the riverbed, you know you are in for something special!  You realise immediately that this IS a secret place, a hidden gem, a little piece of African magic unlike anything else you will ever have experienced.  It is this very same feeling that you as a Guest feel, that makes each one of the Zwartberg View Team happy to work here and be part of this unique experience that guests recieve.  

We strive to provide the highest quality of hospitality services by offering our guests a real African bush experience and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Our lodge offers unique tranquil luxury which includes 360 degree majestic views of mountains (Eon Rooi Koppe range), wild animals, Karoo bush, spectacular sunrises and breathtaking sunsets – even from the luxury of our guests’ beds. Our guests also get to enjoy the unrivalled experience of watching an array of magnificent wild animals enjoy their “dinner” just a few meters away from their dining table or sundowner sofa on the terrace . A true African delight which few guest lodges can offer!

What we have not changed is the heart and soul of Zwartberg View – it is here you shrug off the modern world and forget about your problems!  Come relax, unwind, disappear for a couple of days and leave feeling refreshed and wanting to come back.

The Lodge and Surroundings

Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge is situated between the Eon Rooi Koppe range and offers a fascinating view of the Swartberge and surrounding mountains in the distance. Far away from the hustle and bustle you can enjoy nature and the various animals it has to offer. With Hiking routes taking you to the top of the mountain giving you a 360 degree view of the valleys and mountains surrounding.

Fauna and Flora

You can take a walk in the mountain in between the thorn trees and meet Zebra, Black Wildebeest, Giraffes and various Antelopes along the way. There are numerous types of birds (for bird lovers) as well as butterflies, dragonflies, beetles and the beautiful flora with its rich assortment of flowers, bush and grasses is a pleasure for any nature lover.

Click to find out more about either the Fauna or the Flora.

Activities in the Area

There are many activities in the area for guests of all ages to enjoy. Hiking routes, feeding animals, wine and gin tasting, game drives, skydiving and many more. For all of these activities Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge has the ability to confer discount, allowing our guests to not only experience the true African experience but also to explore the area and all it has to offer. Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge is also the perfect stopover location for trips to and from Cape Town.

Click to find out more about the Activities in the region.

Meet the Team

Anton

Anton

Groundkeeper

Annelise

Annelise

Chef & Housekeeping

Sammy

Sammy

Groundkeeper

IMG_4369

Varley & Hannalize

The Host and owners

The History of Zwartbergview Mountain Lodge