The setting is stunning, away from busy roads and was a truly fantastic stay. We were welcomed by Varley and Franco and made to feel at home straight away. This... read more lodge has a super relaxed atmosphere with the animals popping down to get a bite to eat right outside the lodge verandah. The food was excellent and there was nothing Franco didn't know about the animals, whose care was of the upmost importance. We're so glad Melman (the giraffe) came to see us off and I'm lucky my partner got in the car as he could quite easily have stayed. Would highly recommend the lodge for a little piece of paradise, with beautiful sunsets against the red mountains.

  My husband and I set out on a mini road trip for 10 days at the end of July beginning of August, and my husband being the planner he is,... read more opted for each destination to be booked prior to our departure. I therefore booked 5 getaways (two nights each) over our 10 day period. Zwartberg View Mountain Lodge had been recommended to us and so we included the Lodge in our itinerary. Without knowing what to expect, I had been looking forward to our stay in George the most BUT that said, Zwartberg exceeded all expectations, and was my absolute favourite stay/getaway of all. On arrival we were literally met first by the local giraffe - Melman (what a treat) - and then by the owners Varley & Hannelize. From that moment on our stay did not disappoint. The rooms are exceptionably comfortable (oh my word that bed!!!), and the surroundings are breathtaking. We set out each morning for a walk around the farm, enjoying not only the walk but also being able to see the local Lodge animals in the distance as they avoided meeting us head on. After our exercise we would head down to the main common area and deck for a delicious (late) breakfast. The rest of the day can be spent relaxing and soaking in the view or exploring the surrounding areas (the Meiringspoort is definitely worth the drive if you have never been and the small village of De Rust was a treat too). In the evening we would head down to the deck for sundowners and watch the animals come in for their dinner. We also opted for dinner in the evening and besides being absolutely delicious, the chef was also very generous with the portion sizes (so much so that we never finished a meal). If you enjoy your wines, then Varley has a serious selection of some very enjoyable cultivars. The evenings were finished off around a large fireplace enjoying the absolute peace and quiet and some more lovely red wine. If you enjoy the outdoors, wide open spaces, and good old fashioned South African hospitality then this is the place to spend a couple of days or more (we were very sad to leave after two days and could definitely done another night or so). Thank you Varley, Hannelize, and Zwartberg Mountain View Lodge for providing an unforgettable getaway.

  Excellent service, rooms, views - this is the place to go to get away from everyday stress and just RELAX. Recommend this facility to anyone looking for something special, tranquility... read more and a little piece of heaven. More

  Varley and his wife are an absolute joy and great hosts. Their warmth and hospitality know no bounds. They go above and beyond to make your stay truly exceptional. The... read more accommodation was comfy and equipped with all the necessary amenities. A pleasant surprise was the efficient air conditioning that kept the chalet comfortably warm. The food offerings were not only delicious but also abundant, leaving no room for hunger. Having drinks on veranda while gazing out at the wildlife during the evenings was a special experience. Varley's wealth of knowledge about the animals adds a fascinating dimension to your stay. Whether you're a couple looking for a romantic getaway or a family with children, this destination is perfect for a weekend escape. Summertime promises an added charm with the availability of a pool. Our stay there was thoroughly enjoyable and memorable.

  The perfect place to hit that "reset" button, escaping from that rushed lifestyle. Here you only experience peace for the soul by taking a walk surrounded by nature or drinking... read more a sundowner on the porch whilst the animals are feeding right in front of you!

Truely grateful that we discovered this hidden gem!

A big thank you to the management and staff for providing top class service, we will definitely be back!

  Great stay in a wonderful scenery with own wildlife at your doorstep.
Magnificent home made dinners, fantastic BBQ food !!.
The Varley family provides a lovely hosting and hospitality!
What... read more do you want more ?

  On a roadtrip with my son, and on our way back from Addo, we decided to stay over around Oudtshoorn, ending up with the magnificent views and hospitality of the... read more Varley Family and their no nonsense approach to comfort and excellence.
Viewing the animals from the evening dinner deck brought a new perspective to the different personalities of animals, from the skittish kudu to the regal Giraffe and the intrusive little troublemaking Guinea Fowl.
We had a good rest, loads of hot water, clean and comfortable lodging and spectacular morning and evening views. The type of "Visiting friends/family" holiday experience with the exuberant hospitality we have known as kids.
Will definitely return to the Varley family and follow their progress and growth with a keen eye. Special place. Special people.

  We were greeted and welcomed by the friendly owner which made for a great first impression. The accommodation, food and service were excellent. Our irregular movements were accommodated without objection,... read more even late into a Sunday evening. The owners and staff went out of their way to help with a personal matter which was highly appreciated. We are already planning our next stay next year. Top marks for a top destination!

  We were a family of 6 and stayed in Kudu (4 sleeper) and Oryx (2 sleeper). Both chalets were well equipped with quality bed linen and towels. Kudu chalet has... read more a large barbecue facility for self catering. Both lodges have amazing views of the 3 mountain ranges. We had breakfast and dinner at the lodge and both meals were mind blowing. The lodge also has a lovely pool area and a bar, with beautiful views of the mountains and the wildlife on the farm (Springboks, Kudu, Zebra, Giraffe, Swartwildebeest, Oryx) to name a few. You can also take a hike through well laid out hiking trails and view the wildlife on the farm up close. The owners also arranged a sundowner for us on top of a hill with stunning views of the 3 mountain ranges. The owners and staff were exceptional, friendly and helpful, they did not hesitate to assist with special requests and made great suggestions for nearby attractions, of which there are plenty. If relaxation is your thing, do not hesitate to stay at this lodge, you will not regret it, we had a very special time and will definitely visit again in future. More

  What a wonderful surprise to find such lovely accommodation set on the side of the mountains, the fires at the main lodge was amazing and the food was 5 star,... read more to top it off was the enjoyable evenings at the fire laughing in conversation with the gracious hosts will definitely be back soon. Thanks Owen and Caryn