Schoemanskloof Retreat

The Schoemanskloof Retreat comprises two self-catering guest cottages on Falls Fish Farm (we do goldfish and koi) in the beautiful indigenous valley of Schoemanskloof - The Mountain Pondokkie near the top and Khaya Mandevu at the bottom of the mountain. The Mountain Pondokkie is an old stone cottage, originating from around 1900. It is accessed by vehicles with high clearance only (4x4 in wet weather), but we are happy to shuttle guests up to the cottage from the main gate (about 2km) upon request. Khaya Mandevu near the river below is an old farmhouse, overlooking a dam with a stunning view of the mountain. It is more easily accessed than the Pondokkie but also needs a vehicle with fairly high clearance.
Both cottages can accommodate up to six people in three separate sleeping areas and are ideal getaways for nature lovers and those keen on activities like birding, hiking and mountain biking. At the Pondokkie you may even be joined by our resident feral cat who helps keep the rat and mice population down!

The Pondokkie sleeps six comfortably in one separate downstairs bedroom and two loft rooms upstairs above the lounge ? these two sleeping areas are curtained off but privacy is limited so you need to share this with family or good friends. The loft rooms are accessed by steep stairs and guests are required to use these with caution, especially with young children.

There is an en-suite bathroom with shower, basin and loo, and a second with a bath, shower, basin and loo. Linen and towels are provided.

The fully-equipped kitchen has a gas stove and a fridge with freezer space. A wheelbarrow with a grid is provided for braai's.

Water is provided by a mountain stream which we all happily drink but please bring bottled water if you are worried about tummies not used to it or be prepared to boil the water.

The lounge has a fire-place but no TV and the first lot of firewood is free ? thereafter it is available for purchase at R30 per bag. There is also a covered patio with incredible views; ideal for relaxing.

Khaya Mandevu has similar facilities: a bedroom with a queen size bed & bathroom en suite; a 2nd bedroom with a 2nd bathroom with a shower and loo; and a 3rd bedroom with 2 double beds in it. There is also an outside shower and a small dip pool. The fully equipped kitchen has a fridge, gas hob and an electric oven.