ECO RETREAT

This retreat is conveniently located in the most scenic parts of the Eastern Cape, only 50 km west of Port Elizabeth, and close to the N2. The very popular beach resort at Jeffreys Bay, is only 35 km away to the southwest. 180km from Uniondale and Baviaans Kloof

This retreat is a privately owned conservancy and sanctuary to many endangered fauna and flora.

ACCOMMODATION

Visitors have a choice in unique and extra-ordinary accommodation: fully equipped chalets, log cabin, cottages, pioneer ox wagons, base camp for hikers and camping sites.

We have four chalets with spectacular views over the hills and valleys. All our chalets are fully equipped for self-catering. Linen and towels are provided. Every chalet has a BBQ area.

Wood is available. You only have to bring your clothes, food and drinks.

CHALETS

  • The rondavel (Naguiltjie) is designed as a bed-sitter with one double bed for 2 persons only.

  • The log cabin (Wielewaal), is a cosy chalet with a stunning view of the valley. This chalet sleeps four. It has a main bedroom with a double bed and a loft with two single beds.

  • The stone chalet (Kroonarend) is a great family chalet that sleeps 6 people. It has a main bedroom with a double bed, and a second bedroom with two single beds. Two additional beds in the living room can also be used.

  • The cottage (Taaibos) has two single beds in the main bedroom, (for couples they are put together to form a king sized bed) There is a bunk bed in the lounge/kitchen, it can sleep four people.

  • There are also 3 ox wagons for the more adventurous guest. Two of the wagons have a double bed, with an adjoining cabin providing sleeping space for two more guests on a bunk bed or sofa bed and there is an ox-wagon that only sleeps 2.

  • General facilities: 24-hour front desk, Children’s play area, Secured free parking, Laundry service, BBQ Picnic area, WIFI available.

Rates Available On request Only

BACK PACKER’S UNITS & CAMP SITE

This camp site is situated in a picturesque area of the farm close to a mountain stream.  It is a favorite past-time amongst campers to hike along the stream to our waterfall with a rock pool to swim in.

The campsite and Back packer’s units are ideal for larger organized groups.

The Back Packer’s units are situated at our Camp site.  

There are 2 buildings:

  • The Smithy Cabin that sleeps 6 persons

  • The Stables Cabin with bunk beds for 8 persons

  • Groups must provide their own bedding and towels and use the camp site ablutions and lapa. 

  • The communal washroom facilities consist of 4 toilets, basins and showers.

  • There IS electricity, but a “donkey” fire is used for hot water.

  • The old barn (lapa) can be used for gatherings and activities.

  • There is a small kitchen with an electric outlet, a small fridge and basin

  • There are convenient facilities for a BBQ.

  • Larger groups can bring their own tents or OFF – ROAD caravans.

  • NB:  Only off-road caravans or campers can be used as the road crosses the river at a shallow section which is not accessible to standard/ ordinary caravans.

  • RATES: Contact us for special rates for groups.

    Camping sites:  R150.00 p/p/p/ night (own tents/ trailers/ caravans).

BERGRIVIER ACTIVITIES

HIKING TRAILS:

here is a whole network of day trails to be enjoyed.

All trails are color coded,well-marked and easy to follow.  Trail maps available.

  • The Nguni trail is an easy to moderate 2km “breakfast’ hike for all families.

  • The Waterfall trail is a most enjoyable and very popular walk to the waterfall and back, (3km).  Most of the time hikers can enjoy swimming in the big rock pool!

  • The Fynbos trail is an easy 4km and have stunning scenery, it is also very popular for bird watchers and hikers who love to identify our beautiful plants.

  • The Oppi-Koppi trail is a moderate 5km, has a bit more challenges and will reward hikers with awesome panoramic views.

  • Then there is the Two Valleys Trail of 10km for the more experienced and fit hiker.  These trails can also be linked and enjoyed by very fit trail runners!!

BIRD WATCHING

Bergrivier is blessed with a big number of beautiful bird species. It is a paradise for bird watchers!

Knysna Louries are seen very often.Crown Eagles have nested in our “kloof” close by, Fish Eagles, Jackal Buzzards, African Goshawks are soaring over our hills regularly.

You will also see a number of the Cuckoo families, Coucals, Owls, Black headed Orioles, Bokmakieries, Fly catchers, Sun birds – just to name a few.

At nighttime you will hear the well-known call of some night jar species too. So, bring your bird lists, books and binoculars!!!

4X4 TRAILS

Proudly presented, are our new and exciting 4 x 4 trails

  • Come and test your vehicle and driving skills on our 14.6 km route consisting of a Valley Loop and a Mountain loop, graded 2 – 3.

  • An easier and more beautiful scenic drive on top of the mountain also takes you through fynbos, indigenous forest, and beautiful valleys.

  • Bookings are essential. (Rates on request)

  • Campers preferring to use their own tents or bush caravans may do so and use the camp facilities.

MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS

  • Bring your own mountain bike and come and enjoy all our dirt roads.
  • Follow the 4 x 4 trails over a variety of terrains which will test all levels of enthusiastic mountain bikers.

  • Ride along water streams, crossing small riverines, up to the mountain top with panoramic views, scenic valleys, through fynbos and indigenous forests. (Free of charge with booked accommodation).

MORE PLACES OF INTEREST CLOSE BY:

  • Jeffreys Bay beaches, pubs, golf courses, restaurants.

  • St Francis Bay canals, Penguin Sanctuary, Chokka boats/ fishing
  • More hiking and biking at Jeffreys Bay Bike Park

  • Horse riding at Papiesfontein – 20km from Jeffreys Bay.

  • The Baviaanskloof NatureReserve and many more.