Birches Cottage

In the 7-hectare Brittlewood Estate, with the cascading Umzimkulu river bounding one side and blue mountain sky the other, lie the Birches and Willows cottages.

Designed to satisfy the needs of the most discerning traveller, Birches and Willows are luxuriously appointed and serviced daily to international standards.

Set in a private garden riverfront estate, the Birches and Willows combine luxurious country living with a host of outdoor adventures, self-drive activities and cultural pursuits. The most memorable aspect of your visit will be the superlative service, attention to detail and the sincere interest of the Birches and Willows team in your personal comfort.

There are a host of outdoor facilities available in Underberg and its surrounds. If a visit the highest pub in Africa is on your schedule, you will require a valid passport. Besides a visit to the pub, local tour operators offer day excursions to San painting sites, horse trails, biking, quad bike excursions, 4X4 excursions, hiking, birdwatching, trout fishing, white water rafting, tubing, rock climbing, abseiling, golf and lots more.

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Reviews

  • "Beautiful scenery"

    06 June 2021

    "Quiet & secluded yet you're close enough to town should you need to do your daily shop. Surrounded by nature this cottage is just the perfect getaway destination. Our highlight was the walk to the different pools, deck, river - it's been so well thought out and just beautiful! Will definitely be back."

  • "Exceptional stay! Will absolutely be back!"

    27 April 2021

    "We could not have loved this place more. The hosts were beyond amazing, the views, comfort, peace and all round hospitality was above and beyond. Our cottage was clean, lovely and so very comfortable. The fact that it was cleaned daily was a real treat and unexpected!"

  • "The river walk"

    10 January 2018

    "Loved the river walk and little hideaways. Clean and friendly."

  • "The river walk"

    10 January 2018

    "Loved the river walk and little hideaways. Clean and friendly."

  • "Friendly service and beautiful views!"

    07 January 2018

    "Lovely stay! Large cottage with comfortable furniture and facilities. Fridge a little small! But that is the only issue we had. Neighbors very close and cottages share a wall, but we werent bothered. Gorgeous surroundings and very friendly hosts!"

  • "Warm and Cosy"

    14 May 2017

    "Thank you for a very comfortable, clean and cosy stay, with very friendly hosts. We will definitely be back next time we are in the Underberg."

  • "Wonderful setting"

    13 December 2016

    "We had a lovely one night stay at the Cottage. The walk down to the river and the serenity of the place is magnificent. The cottage is close enought to town but far away from "civilisation"."

  • "We absolutely loved it!"

    25 October 2016

    "The cottage was spacious and clean. The bathroom was huge! The owners were very patient to answer all our questions in detail and in a friendly manner. I loved that the place is surrounded by nature. We enjoyed the garden and loved the walk to the river. We spotted a couple of animals on our river walk. The bonus was the herb garden where we were allowed to help ourselves to some herbs. Very peaceful and tranquil place."

  • "Peaceful location"

    14 September 2016

    "We were met by the owner of the property who showed us our accommodation, which was very clean and well equipped. There are nice walks on the property. We were only there for one night and found it to be more than adequate."

  • "Peaceful"

    29 August 2016

    "Thank you, so peaceful, everything we needed was there. Nice and clean. Although we stayed for one night we enjoyed it a lot."

  • "Comfy cottage"

    25 July 2016

    "We enjoyed a very warm comfortable evening in your lovely cottage despite the chilly weather outside.Thank you! The surroundings are lovely and we took a quick stroll down to the river."

  • "Spectacular!!"

    04 July 2016

    "<p>My wife and I needed a short break from our demanding city lifesyles. We just wanted seclusion and Birches Cottage offered nothing short of that. It is beautifully nested away.</p><p>Huck and Elsabe gave us a very warm welcome. The cottage is really spacious with everything you will need for self catering requirements. It is well kept and very clean.<br></br><br></br>Being lovers of coffee (more like addicts), we had to try the famous cappuccino at Lemon tree restuarant. Our verdict? It's by far one of the best cups of coffee we've had. Perfect temperature and good quality beans.<br></br><br></br>The food at Lemon Tree is also good, we had the pot pie made in a delicious mixture of beer and served with wedges. I think I might have rekindled my love fo pastry this weekend! We also loved the fish Rhulani ordered....nicely made.<br></br></p><p>Overall we loved Birches Cottage and plan on coming throughone summer and staying for longer. We will highly recommend it to our friends and families.<br></br></p>"

  • "Fantastic stay"

    26 June 2016

    "We really enjoyed our 8 day stay at the comfortable Birches Cottage!<div><br /></div><div>The cottage with its gas fireplace was great and we enjoyed every moment. The bed, linen, towels, shampoo, lotion and welcoming drinks - there are too many fine touches to even mention. Do yourself a favour and take the walk down to the river - it is an absolute must!</div><div><br /></div><div>The owners are a fantastic couple with a beautiful restaurant in town - Lemon Tree. They serve the best breakfast in town!</div>"

  • "Comfortable nights stay."

    20 June 2016

    "-Best nights sleep in a comfy king with percale linen in the Willows bedsitter!<div>-Welcoming sherry most delicious.</div><div>- Filter coffee and biscuits a nice touch.</div><div>-The biggest bathroom with bath, basin and separate shower/ loo....shampoo, conditioner, soap, bubble bath &amp; body lotion provided.</div><div>- The walking trail down to the river cut out of the hillside was fantastic!</div><div>- Encountered a rabbit and a deer on my walk around the property... Priceless!</div><div>- Did not meet the owners, but Happiness came to greet us when we arrived.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>"

  • "super accommodation"

    23 April 2016

    "<span style="font-size: 12.16px; font-family: arial, verdana; color: #808080; background-color: #f9f9f9;">We were very well looked after at the accommodation. There is a lot to do but just relaxing and doing nothing was also lovely as the accommodation was very comfortable. I liked the large living spaces (bedroom and Kitchen/sitting/dining area)</span><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, verdana; color: #808080; font-size: 12.16px; background-color: #f9f9f9;">Martin Coombs</span></div>"

  • "Relaxing and comfortable"

    29 March 2016

    "Th Owners are very friendly and the property is great for a relaxing stay."

  • "Birches Cottages review"

    22 December 2015

    "The estate was magnificent and beautiful- where space became the place and time became the moment A perfect, quiet and serene place to catch up with yourself. We would love to come back :) Elsabe and Huck were very kind and helpful, thanks for creating such a beautiful space."

  • "Goed"

    09 November 2015

    "Ons het lekker bebly en dit baie geniet. Goeie plek vanwaar omgewing verken kan word"

  • "Peaceful"

    01 April 2015

    "<p>We had such a peaceful and enjoyable time, the units are well looked after and we were treated like family. <span style="line-height: 1.5;">Loved the fact that it was not in town, we took a walk down to the river and it was so relaxing. </span><span style="line-height: 1.5;">The breakfast at the Lemon Tree in town was so good. </span><span style="line-height: 1.5;">Will be back sooner rather than later.</span></p>"

  • "Amazing place"

    08 December 2014

    "A beautiful, cozy cottage with amazing views. The estate has beautiful garden and trails which lead to a river. Serene and peaceful. We had a wonderful weekend there. The owners were very kind and friendly. The breakfast, which was served at their restaurant, was filling and delicious."

  • "Lovely experience"

    18 August 2014

    "We loved our stay at Birches Cottages. It was quite cold, but they had heaters throughout the unit as well as feather duvets and electric blankets.The food was exceptional and our host was extremely helpful with activities in the area and ensuring that we had everything we required during our stay."

  • "Warm little unit, even warmer hosts"

    01 August 2014

    "Arrived during a cold snap to a warm welcome and amazing hosts. Clean, well-equipped little cottage that had an amazingly large and comfortable bed. All the necessary items and our hosts were even willing to give us a few items we needed too. Breakfast was UNBELIEVABLE. We were blown away by our visit to the Lemon Tree Bistro, and I honestly wish we lived in Underberg so I could become a local. Left with full hearts and tummies. Need I say more."

  • "A lovely cottage"

    29 April 2014

    "A lovely quaint cottage. It is very peaceful and the walk to the river is beautiful. The hosts were exceptional and the breakfast at the Lemon Tree Bistro was fantastic!. Thank you Huck & Elsabe."

  • "What a wonderful family experience"

    28 April 2014

    "Such a lovely stay, from the moment we arrived we felt such warmth and hospitality. We would love to go back soon. Was the perfect little getaway for my little family. Thank you!"

  • "What more could you ask for?!"

    17 March 2014

    "I recently stayed in this delightful place for the weekend. The hosts were exceptionally welcoming and helpful. The breakfast was superb. It's located in a very nice private area with the stunning river valley just below the property.The accomodation was spacious and very well appointed with everything one needs.Most certainly would stay here again when back in the Underberg."

  • "Excellent!"

    15 December 2013

    "Thank you for a relaxing few days. Just what we needed."

  • "Home away from home"

    22 October 2013

    "We wanted to rest, and that we did in Comfort, peace, with lots of hospitality and friendship!"

  • "Outstanding"

    08 July 2013

    "The most outstanding and amazing place to be. The cosiness of the cottage and the warmth of the staff made our stay extra special.The extraordinary people Huck and Elsabe with their charming and friendliness personality made us feel as if we were in heaven. The Lemon Tree Bistro is a must to visit as their Cappuccino's and Hot Chocolate is to die for. Meals are prepared timeously and deliciously.Well done to Huck and Elsabe and to everyone at the Birches Cottage and the Lemon Tree Bistro for making our stay a memorable one."

  • "A great relaxing escape from the buzz of city life"

    19 June 2013

    "The hospitality from Huck and Elsabe was heart-warming. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and the breakfasts at the Lemon Tree Bistro."

  • "What a gem"

    06 May 2013

    "Beautiful little gem and the breakfast is something extraordinarily special! Will return."

  • "Great for relaxing"

    07 March 2013

    "Good place to relax. Neat and quiet with a good stretch of river flowing through the property."

  • "A pleasant, calm retreat at Birches"

    18 December 2012

    "Even though we only stayed 2 nights, it was peacefull and very pleasant. The cottage was spotless and well fitted out. The estate has some great walks and stunning views of the valley."

  • "A fantastic cottage to stay-over!"

    07 October 2012

    "A great and very well equiped lodge just a few kilometers outside Underberg. The short trails to and from the river are great and very well maintained. The owners of this lodge both have the right level of hospitality in their blood ! We had dinner as well as breakfast in "The lemmon-tree"(owned by the same owner as the owner of the cottage) and it was great. Friendly regards, Giny and Ted Posthumus, Maseru, lesotho/The Netherlands."

  • "Wonderful"

    16 July 2012

    "We had a wonderful stay (for the weekend) at Birches and Willows. Beautiful walks on the property and the breakfast at Lemon Tree was excellent. The cottage was clean and comfortable and very spacious."

  • "An amazing stay!"

    05 April 2011

    "The cottage is amazing! It is spacious and very comfortable. Huck and Elsabe's personal touces makes this place even more special, and Happiness' assistance and great service is much appreciated. I would recommend this to anyone, and we are already planning a return trip."

  • "The best in the Southern Berg!"

    29 March 2011

    "Wow! What more should we say. Birches Cottage was absolutely superb. Well done Huck and Elsabe. Derek, myself and the kids were so happy to stay in a B&B which has so much to offer. We will certainly be back as soon as we can and will keep coming time and time again as Underberg has a special place in our hearts and so does Birches Cottage - not forgetting The Lemon Tree Bistro. Thanks again Derek, Zel and the kids."

  • "Nice and quiet"

    26 January 2011

    "Nice, quiet place with beautiful garden and great walking path to the river."

  • "Very comfortable"

    28 May 2010

    "Birches was very comfortable, and the environment picturesque. Would definitely have a repeat visit. Huck and Elsabe are very hospitable. Great pancakes and interesting store at Lemon Tree."

  • "Very comfortable"

    28 May 2010

    "Birches was very comfortable, and the environment picturesque. Would definitely have a repeat visit.Huck and Elsabe are very hospitable. Great pancakes and interesting store at Lemon Tree. "

  • "Fantastic"

    21 July 2008

    "Absolutely wonderful! We will definitely go back!"

  • "Fantastic"

    21 July 2008

    "Absolutely wonderful! We will definitely go back!"

  • "Very good"

    02 January 2008

    "Lovely place - very spacious cottage. On the property you have access to the river (great in summer). Also close to a lot of adventure destinations: hikes in the Drakensberg, tubing, mountainbiking etc. The 4km gravel road to the cottage is not too great.Very friendly and helpful staff. "

  • "Very good"

    02 January 2008

    "Lovely place - very spacious cottage. On the property you have access to the river (great in summer). Also close to a lot of adventure destinations: hikes in the Drakensberg, tubing, mountainbiking etc. The 4km gravel road to the cottage is not too great. Very friendly and helpful staff."

  • "Lovely, exceptional B&B"

    07 May 2007

    "We had a lovely time at Birches cottages, it was by far the most luxurious cottage that we have stayed in (and we love travelling). The hosts (Huck and Elsabe) are warm, friendly people that ensured all our needs were met. We would definitely go back someday and recommend it to all."

  • "AMAZING BIRCHES"

    30 January 2007

    "Peaceful, beatiful place - out of this world hosts (HUCK and ELSABE) we will definitely go back - astonishing veiws, comfortable and superb accommodation - beatifully decorated.AMAZING!!!!!!!!!"

  • "Birches Bliss"

    09 January 2007

    "Apart from the beauty of the surrounds the general approach to environment and people at Birches adds to the positive experience. This is not just about business."

  • "Fab place to stay"

    25 July 2006

    "We stayed at the Birches and it was wonderful. The biggest and most comfortable bed ever, everything was clean and tidy and the breakfasts were great. I would recommend it to anyone."

  • "Fab place to stay"

    25 July 2006

    "We stayed at the Birches and it was wonderful. The biggest and most comfortable bed ever, everything was clean and tidy and the breakfasts were great. I would recommend it to anyone."

  • "Feedback re Birches Cottage"

    02 July 2006

    "This must count as one of the best holidays we've ever had.We have been to many lesser-known destinations in the country, but this is the first that we are adamant we will return to.The service and hospitality were fantastic.The house is tastefully and exquisitely furnished, we lacked nothing.Elsabe and Huck are wonderfully friendly people and definitely have the right approach to running a guesthouse.The tranquility of the guesthouse and surrounds was revitalising.It is also central enough to a whole host of activities and places of interest, winter or summer.We had an incredible stay at Birches Cottage and look forward to our next visit. "

  • "Feedback re Birches Cottage"

    02 July 2006

    "This must count as one of the best holidays we've ever had. We have been to many lesser-known destinations in the country, but this is the first that we are adamant we will return to. The service and hospitality were fantastic. The house is tastefully and exquisitely furnished, we lacked nothing. Elsabe and Huck are wonderfully friendly people and definitely have the right approach to running a guesthouse. The tranquility of the guesthouse and surrounds was revitalising. It is also central enough to a whole host of activities and places of interest, winter or summer. We had an incredible stay at Birches Cottage and look forward to our next visit."

  • "Just Perfect in every way"

    22 March 2006

    "We spent two nights with our sons, aged 16 and 13, at Birches and Willows cottages.Huck and Elsabe made our visit so memorable, even reserving tubes for us prior to our arrival, as the main reason for our visit was for us to do some river tubing with the boys.They are in a wonderful position to do this, being a short walk to the river and back home again afterwards. We thoroughly enjoyed a 1 1/2 hour trip down the river, especially as Huck was able to advise me where to get out so that I didn't have to 'brave' the Tokolosh rapids!The scenery and accommodation is superb and little extra's, so cheerfully provided by Happiness, such as Rosemary sprigs scattered throughout, early evening Sherry and chocolates and even the use of a weber braai as it was raining, give this Bed and Breakfast a 5-star grading .Breakfast was great!We can't remember how long it is since we lingered so long, chatting in a wonderful atmosphere at the Lemon Tree Bistro, enjoying breakfast with a distinct continental flavour - 'Kent sandwich' crisp rye bread, grated cheese, ham, scrambled eggs and a special sauce on top.With excellent Cappuchino and fresh pancakes to finish we were most definitely set up for the day.We arrived as guests but felt as though we left as friends - thank you."

  • "Enjoyed our stay"

    05 December 2005

    "All of the family enjoyed their day and night at Birches Cottage. We will recommend the establishment to all of our friends and family."

  • "Customer rating"

    07 November 2005

    "Perfect accommodation, perfect hosts and perfect place. We were treated like royalty and would recommend Birches Cottage to anyone who wants to get away from it all and find a peace of heaven."

  • "Customer rating"

    07 November 2005

    "Perfect accommodation, perfect hosts and perfect place.We were treated like royalty and would recommend Birches Cottage to anyone who wants to get away from it all and find a peace of heaven."

  • "Warm hospitality!"

    26 September 2005

    "The place was very nice, warm hospitality (particular thanks to Happiness and Thabo), but the road to arrive the Birches cottage was really bad!"

  • "Warm hospitality!"

    26 September 2005

    "The place was very nice, warm hospitality (particular thanks to Happiness and Thabo), but the road to arrive the Birches cottage was really bad!"

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