The Art of the Winter Retreat

While summer fades, winter invites a slower, softer rhythm. Crisp walks, cosy fires and warm drinks set the tone for a season to savour. It’s the perfect time to escape – whether to misty mountains or a rustic farm – and unwind, reconnect, and reset.

Gauteng

Sima Kade Bush Retreat, Magaliesberg Why you’ll love it: Hidden away in a private valley, Sima Kade’s secluded cabins, treehouses, and bush lodges come with cosy fireplaces, wood-fired hot tubs, and blissfully limited cell signal. This is the perfect place to switch off and unwind.

What to do: Bird-watch from the deck, explore secluded trails, and end the day in the hot tub before enjoying an unhurried dinner under the trees. Stay: Hekpoort, Magaliesberg More info: sima-kade.co.za

Mountain Cabin One, Cradle of Humankind Just one hour from Johannesburg, this high-end cabin offers uninterrupted views, a cargo net, hot tub, and a fireplace – and with in-cabin massages and platter deliveries, you never have to leave.

What to do: Order a platter, fire up the hot tub, and stare at the stars from the cargo net. Where: Cradle of Humankind More info: cabinfeverescapes.com

Western Cape

Frog Mountain Getaway and Nature Sanctuary, Swellendam

Set in a secluded valley just outside of Swellendam, this destination feels more like coming home. Each cottage is rustic and intentionally simple, allowing the surrounding landscape to take centre stage. Scents of damp earth and fynbos fill the air, with nearby rivers providing a gentle soundtrack.

What to do: Walk to the waterfalls or stroll along the enchanting forest trails. Soak in the hot tub, read by the fire, or watch the rain from the covered patio with a glass of wine. Where: Portion 5 of Farm 149, Buffeljagsrivier More info: frogmountain.co.za Bergsicht Country Cottages, Tulbagh

Tucked away on a fruit farm in the Tulbagh Valley, all eight cottages are equipped with an indoor fireplace and outdoor wood-fired hot tub. From secluded luxury two-sleeper cottages to larger family cottages, the magical Winterhoek and Witzenberg mountains frame the view from every stoep.

What to do: Sink into the hot tub as the mist rolls off the mountains, curl up by the fireplace with a book, or drive into Tulbagh for wine tasting along one of the Cape’s most underrated wine routes.

Where: Winterhoek Road, Tulbagh

More info: bergsicht.co.za

Kwa-Zulu Natal

Otters Den, Nottingham Road

Set along the banks of the Lions River in the heart of the Midlands, Otters Den is pure countryside charm. Watch the mist roll in from your private deck or retreat indoors with something warm. It’s understated and unhurried, encouraging you to slow down.

What to do: The nearby Midlands Meander provides cosy cafés, craft shops, and farm stalls, while afternoons are for fishing, reading, or doing as little as possible. Where: 60 Dargle Road, Fort Nottingham Road

More info: ottersdensc.co.za

Sani Valley Lodge, Sani Pass

Perched on the iconic Sani Pass, this is “hushpitality” at its finest. With crackling fireplaces, underfloor heating, and private patios overlooking the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, it’s ideal for R&R. Savour crisp mornings and enjoy zebra sightings with your coffee, and relax into slow evenings with red wine and cosy blankets.

What to do: Go for a gentle walk, book a treatment at the on-site spa, or simply enjoy the views while soaking up the peace and quiet.

Where: Sani Pass Road, between Himeville and Underberg

More info: sanivalley.co.za

Eastern Cape

Maple Grove, Hogsback

Nestled among hazelnut and maple trees, Maple Grove provides three accommodation options, each equipped with wall heaters, plush throws, electric blankets, and fireplaces. Enjoy peaceful storybook landscapes from the comfort of the great indoors.

What to do: Pull on your warmest socks, light the fire, and work through your reading list. The nearby village has a craft brewery, quaint restaurants, and a Saturday morning market.

Where: Hogsback, Amatola Mountains

More info: maplegrove.co.za

Misty Mountain Reserve, Tsitsikamma

Where the Tsitsikamma mountains meet the Indian Ocean, the winter chill fuels the charm here. Settle into ocean-view lodges with fireplaces, forest and lakeside tented suites, or star-gazing domes with outdoor hot tubs.

What to do: Stroll along indigenous trails or enjoy crisp, salty coastal walks. Afternoons are for reading by the fire or soaking in the hot tub as the temperature drops.

Where: Tsitsikamma

More info: mistymountainreserve.co.za

View the original article in SPAR Savour Magazine.