Zwakala River Retreat

Zwakala River Retreat is a beautiful place where the simple things in life matter. Situated on the banks of a fresh water stream high up in the magical Magoebaskloof mountains of Limpopo, it is the earthy cottages,the indigenous flowers and herbs, the candlelight, cosy log fires, and long river walks that draw one in to a slower pace of life where you can simply just be and let yourself enjoy. We also have a farm venue perfect for weddings or gatherings. Zwakala Brewery is our newly established craft brewery on the farm - enjoy a tour or a tasting or the breath taking views from our tasting room! Plenty of cycle routes and hikes in the area and we have a 2.5km river stretch for fly-fishing enthusiasts.

Cosy cottages, cabins and a private campsite are all on the banks of the river. Old fashioned candle light and lamps, steaming hot water from donkey boilers and open log fires make for romance and togetherness. We have chosen not to have electricity in the cottages and cabins but they are fully equipped with all the necessary comforts like crisp white linen and down duvets, strategically placed solar lights, gas stove and fridge.

Mina's Art Cafe and Farm VenueThe original old shed and farm house from the early 1900s has been lovingly renovated into Mina's Art Caf and Venue. It has a charming feel with old stone reveals, stick ceilings, a large fireplace and an old fashioned stoep overlooking a terraced garden with grand shady trees and spectacular views over the valley. It has a fully equipped kitchen where delicious menus are prepared from the freshest ingredients. Mina's is an ideal venue for farm style DIY weddings that are meaningful and real. We are also open for group celebrations and gatherings on request. We can accommodate up to 150 guests.

On the Farm we have a swimming in the river, walking, trout fishing, cycling, free range horses and abundant medicinal herbs.

In the area: Hiking trails, well-marked cycling routes , adventure activities, a cheese farm, indigenous forests and grasslands, quaint pubs and eateries, fresh air and beauty everywhere.

booking enquiry no obligation!

Reviews

"Awesome forest retreat"

07 November 2019

"It was amazing to wake up in the morning to the sounds of all the birds in the surrounding forest."
"Lovely views, Romantic setting"

09 September 2019

"We had a lovely, quiet weekend between the trees. Will definitely visit Zwakala again."
"A long way down !!"

04 September 2018

"Lovely down by the river but the website did not mention that we had to drive about 16 Kms on a very bad steep dirt road to get there or that there was no electricity. Luckily we have a good 2x4 car and a 4x4 caravan or we would have never made it back up to the main road. Also, the owner had not had confirmation from you that we had booked. Beautiful place but not the best experience."
"Zwakala"

08 July 2018

"Unfortunately we did not stay there for our booking."
"Not what we expected"

04 June 2018

"R900 per night is a bit much for what you get out of it. The room was filled with dead bees and we did not appreciate the manner in which we were greeted upon arrival."
"Rustic beauty"

20 January 2018

"Great location, super brewery..... great for birding.Romantic & unpretentious.An absolute must for mountain biking."
"Awesome!"

15 January 2018

"It is one of the most beautiful places we have ever camped. Quiet, private and it was absolutely wonderful waking up with the sound of the flowing river :-) Highly recommended!"
"Little piece of paradise"

03 July 2017

"Perfect for nature lovers looking for a break away. River is beautiful. Accommodation is cozy. Wish we stayed for longer"
"Beautiful location!"

19 June 2017

"Lovely setting, clean and neat accommodation. Will most certainly be back!"
"Amazing outdoor retreat!"

05 June 2017

"Staff and owners really very friendly and welcoming, the location is in the midst of the forest with a beautiful little river and waterfall. Great hikes start from the farm and from Haenertsburg nearby. They even have a brewery on the farm with very tasty beers which functions as the local get-together. The sunday farmersmarket on the farm is a blast."
"Beautiful and affordable getaway"

10 July 2015

"Zwakala River Retreat is a perfect place to unwind for a few Days. It is set along a beautiful river and in a stunning forest. There are loads of trails where you can walk, trail run or mountain bike. The staff and owners are very friendly and accommodating. The cottages have everything you need to make your stay comfortable. Great value for money! We can't wait to go back!"
"Legodi Cottage"

13 October 2014

"What a lovely place to stay, relax and get back in touch with yourself, family and nature! The scenery of the river, trees, bushes and flowers was awesome. Thank you for a fantastic weekend and be sure to see us again in the near future."