A Traveler’s Guide to Finding the Perfect Place to Stay in Tulbagh

Do you dream of exploring the charming town of Tulbagh? Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through its picturesque streets and breathtaking landscapes? Then you have come to the right place! In this guide, I will help you navigate through the vast selection of accommodations in Tulbagh, so you can find the perfect place to stay for your next adventure.

When it comes to finding the best rated accommodation in Tulbagh, there are a few key factors you should consider. First and foremost, location is paramount. You want to be conveniently situated near all the main attractions and amenities that Tulbagh has to offer. Whether you want to explore the historical sites, relax in nature, or indulge in local cuisine, choosing a central location will ensure you can make the most of your time in this enchanting town.

Another important aspect to consider is the type of accommodation that suits your needs and preferences. Tulbagh offers a wide range of options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels and self-catering cottages. Think about what you value most in your accommodation – is it comfort, convenience, or a unique experience? Knowing your priorities will help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect place to call home during your stay in Tulbagh.

The reviews and ratings of previous guests are also invaluable in your quest for the best accommodation. By reading their experiences, you can gain insight into the quality of service, cleanliness, and overall ambiance of the establishments you are considering. Keep an eye out for consistently positive reviews, as well as specific comments that align with your personal preferences. This way, you can ensure your stay in Tulbagh exceeds all your expectations.

Lastly, it’s important to consider your budget when searching for accommodations in Tulbagh. Prices can vary greatly, so it’s essential to find a balance between affordability and quality. Setting a budget will help you narrow down your options and avoid any potential financial stress during your trip. Remember, finding the perfect place to stay doesn’t mean breaking the bank – there are plenty of wonderful accommodations in Tulbagh that offer great value for your money.

So, if you’re ready to embark on your Tulbagh adventure, keep these factors in mind as you research and book your accommodation. With the perfect place to stay, you can make the most of your time in this idyllic town, create unforgettable memories, and truly immerse yourself in the beauty that Tulbagh has to offer. Happy travels!

When I was on a mission to find the top-notch accommodations in Tulbagh, Southern Africa, I wanted to make sure I left no stone unturned. That’s why I chose Pippa de Bruyn, a professional reviewer, to thoroughly evaluate 30 of the top-ranked options in the Hotel, B&B/Inn, and Speciality Lodging categories. She also visited many unlisted options. The result of her extensive research is a tried-and-tested guide that you won’t find anywhere else.

So, why should you choose Tulbagh? Well, let me tell you a thing or two:

• First and foremost, Tulbagh boasts breathtaking alpine farm surrounds. From the town to the Winterhoek corner in the north, the views are simply stunning. Picture yourself nestled in a small horseshoe valley, surrounded by the Obiqua Mountains, the Witzenberg peaks, and the Winterhoek Mountains. At every turn, you’ll be treated to magnificent vistas that will leave you in awe.

Did you know that the Winterhoek Mountains have peaks that reach over 1500 meters and are always covered in snow during the winter? The nearby Witzenberg Mountains are also often dusted with snow. As a result, having a fireplace is essential in this area, especially because it gets incredibly hot in summer.

Church Street is a unique place in South Africa. It boasts a remarkable collection of Cape Dutch, Edwardian, and Victorian buildings, many of which were restored after a devastating earthquake in 1969. Unfortunately, over the years, tourism has taken over, and most of these beautiful buildings have been converted into accommodations. As a visitor, there might not be a strong sense of local life, but the street is still peaceful and charming, especially at night. With old-fashioned lamp lights illuminating your path, you can stroll to a restaurant while being serenaded by the soothing sounds of frogs and crickets.

If you’re a wine lover like me, you’re in for a real treat when you explore the hidden gem wine estates. You absolutely have to try Saronsberg’s amazing Shiraz wines – they’ve won awards for both of them! And don’t forget Rijk’s Pinotage; it’s a must-try too.

Tulbagh is a place with stunning surroundings that rival Franschhoek, but at half the price. It’s become a top wedding destination, and for good reason. There are so many wonderful options for hosting a small or large party. Just keep in mind that it’s always busy here, so make sure to book well in advance. And if you can, book for a longer stay. Trust me, it’s worth it. If you only stay for one night, especially on a Saturday, the rates tend to be higher. But if you stay for three nights or more, there are usually discounts available.

What’s great about Tulbagh is that it’s also one of the friendliest destinations for the LGBT community, outside of Cape Town.

Now, let’s talk about the best historic B&B farmhouse in Tulbagh.

1. Montpellier Manor House

Welcome to the Montpellier Manor House, a historic residence that will transport you back in time. As I step into its 300-year-old walls, I can’t help but imagine what it would be like to call this place home – even if only for a weekend. The manor exudes elegance with its antique-filled rooms and sprawling estate.

Inside the house, you’ll find a grand kitchen table that could easily host a lavish banquet. The lush gardens surrounding the property are filled with hidden nooks waiting to be discovered. As you stroll along the vine-shaded terraces, you’ll come across a magnificent 14-metre pool, perfect for a refreshing swim on a sunny day. And don’t forget to visit the beautiful hillside chapel, a place of quiet reflection.

One of the highlights of Montpellier Manor House is their award-winning wines, which you can sample and savor to your heart’s content. The variety of flavors and aromas will enchant your senses and leave you wanting more.

The manor can accommodate a total of 18 guests, with four luxurious en-suite bedrooms and a dorm-style loft that can sleep an additional 10 people. Please note that the loft is accessed via a fairly steep stairway in the garden, so be cautious when making your way up.

If you require more space, there is an Annex located a short walk away. This separate building can sleep eight guests in four bedrooms. However, keep in mind that the kitchen in the Annex is not up to the same standard as the main house.

Adjacent to the Annex is the Wooden Cottage, but it pales in comparison to the grandeur of the manor. Though it might not match the opulence of the main residence, it offers a cozy and intimate setting for a smaller group.

If you prefer a self-catering option, you may consider Rietdakkies, located a short drive away. These three units are clustered together on weathered decks, providing a rustic country retreat. However, if you seek a little more luxury, I recommend exploring other options reviewed on these pages.

Experience the charm and grace of Montpellier Manor House. Book your stay today and indulge in a truly memorable getaway.

Here’s a tip for your room: You have your pick of any of the four rooms in the Manor House, except for the one with the frilly four-poster bed if you’re a little particular. And if you round up some friends (up to 18), you can even have the whole national monument to yourselves. The cost per room, per night, starts at R900. To book, visit montpellier.co.za.

A great deal on a small self-catering cottage

2. Kloofzicht Lake View Cottage

Hey there! Let me tell you about Kloofzicht Lake View Cottage.

You can find this beautiful place just four kilometers south of Tulbagh town. The best part? They offer four different options for self-catering. There’s the Country House, the Loft, and two cottages. Each one has its own unique charm. And guess what? You’ll have access to a large pool with amazing views of the mountains. How cool is that?

Now, let me tell you about my favorite – the Lake View Cottage. It’s a cozy little unit with a lovely layout and antique furniture that gives it a farm-style vibe. And wait till you see the large open fireplace! It’s perfect for those chilly nights. The best part is the barn-style doors that open up to a deck where you can enjoy stunning mountain views. It’s simply charming.

But that’s not all. There’s also the Country House, and let me tell you, it’s something special. It’s a double-storey thatched house with five bedrooms. And let me tell you, those bedrooms are huge and super comfy. Four of them even have their own bathrooms. The kitchen dining table, right next to the cozy fireplace, is the perfect spot for a long and lazy winter lunch.

So, whether you’re looking for a cozy cottage or a spacious country house, Kloofzicht has got you covered. And with their friendly staff, you’ll have all the support you need during your stay. Don’t miss out on this incredible experience!

Advice: The Lake View Cottage is a great choice if you want a beautiful view, although it only has one bedroom. If you have a larger family but prefer not to stay in the big Country House, the Loft is a two-story option with two bedrooms that can accommodate up to nine people.
Price: The cottages start at R800 per night per cottage.
Contact: You can reach out to them at kloofzichtestate.co.za

Check out these fantastic wine-farm cottages

3. Saronsberg

Imagine stumbling upon a hidden treasure in the form of a wine farm called Saronsberg. As I enter, my eyes are immediately drawn to a magnificent triple-volume gallery-tasting room that offers breathtaking views of a tranquil dam. Rising from the water is a captivating Angus Taylor statue, evoking images of a mythical female Pan. The beauty of the surrounding mountains matches the allure of their exceptional wines.

Once I’ve immersed myself in the astonishing art collection, I’m eager to indulge in a taste of their heavenly Shiraz. I can’t resist the temptation to grab a bottle in each hand, taking a leisurely stroll across the lush lawns to my cozy cottage. The moment I step inside, I’m greeted by the flickering flames of a crackling fire, offering a warm and inviting ambiance.

Saronsberg goes above and beyond to ensure a delightful and comfortable stay. The 16 renovated laborer’s cottages are thoughtfully spaced apart, allowing for privacy while still fostering a sense of community. Whether I’m traveling alone or with a large group, the “village” provides ample accommodation options, boasting a total of 51 beds.

The interior design of each cottage is tasteful and refined, reflecting the owner’s passion for art. The focal point of every space is a grand open fireplace, serving as a hub for cozy gatherings. It’s a shame that many other establishments in the valley lack this convivial setup, with their stoves tucked away in corners or fireplaces confined to kitchens and dining areas.

For added enjoyment, Saronsberg offers a communal pool. To my delight, there’s also a shaded function area adorned with long tables and benches. It’s the perfect spot to relax and unwind, whether on your own or in the company of fellow guests.

If you’re looking for the perfect room tip, I’ve got one for you: Number 11 at Raptor Rise Cottage has the most incredible mountain views. Can you imagine waking up to that every morning? It’s like a dream come true.

Now, let’s talk about the cost. You might be pleasantly surprised to know that you can stay in this amazing cottage for just R1,200 per night. That’s such a great deal for the experience you’ll have.

If you’re interested in booking, you can contact them through saronsberg.com. They’ll be happy to help you with all the details and answer any questions you might have.

Best private cottage

4. Raptor Rise Cottage

Welcome to Raptor Rise Cottage!

If you’re searching for solitude and tranquility surrounded by vast fields, a wide porch with breathtaking mountain views, a cozy living and dining area with a grand fireplace, a well-stocked kitchen, and a decent-sized swimming pool in your own private garden, then you’ve come to the right place. My name is Averil, and along with my husband Bill, we restored this cottage with meticulous attention to detail. Originally intended as our own personal retreat while we renovated our farmhouse, the cottage quickly became a popular destination for our guests, and it has remained busy ever since! We’re now in the process of transforming other buildings on our farm. Bill recently refurbished our stables, located near the farmhouse, into four cozy self-catering units that can accommodate two guests each, as well as a spacious family unit with two bedrooms.

Room tip: If you’re a small group of two, then Raptor Rise Cottage is the perfect choice for you. It can accommodate up to eight people comfortably. The cottage features two en-suite bedrooms connected to the lounge. Additionally, there’s an upstairs loft with four single beds that offers breathtaking views. You can reach the loft by using the outside staircase near the kitchen door.
Cost: The cost starts at R550 per person when sharing.
Contact: You can reach them at raptorrise.co.za

Best snow-capped mountain views

5. Mont Rouge

Wow, I can’t believe I get to stay at Mont Rouge, right at the foot of the towering Winterhoek Mountains, on this incredible 60-hectare fruit farm. There are four cozy cottages to choose from, and each one is just perfect. They’re nestled along a peaceful stream, so I can listen to the gentle sound of the water as I take in the breathtaking mountain views. Whether I decide to relax on the sofa or sit out on the deck, the scenery is absolutely stunning.

What makes these cottages even more special is the attention to detail put into each one. Marisha du Plessis, the wife of one of the Du Plessis farmers, has done an amazing job decorating them with her own personal touch. You can tell that she truly loves hospitality because she goes above and beyond to make sure every guest feels welcome. The whole atmosphere here is one of gratitude and celebration for the beauty that surrounds us.

I heard that Marisha’s next project is to create swimming holes in the river for each cottage by next summer. How cool is that? I can already picture myself taking a refreshing dip after a day of exploring.

Tip for choosing a room: It all depends on how many people you have with you. They have different types of cottages to accommodate different group sizes. Cottage 1 and Cottage 2 are connected but still have separate bedrooms and lofts. They share a deck, but don’t worry, there’s a door between them. So, if you have a big group of up to 15 people, you can rent them together as one unit. If you’re looking for a cozy and romantic escape, Cottage 3 is perfect for honeymooners. It has an open-plan layout with a living area, bedroom, and kitchen all in one. Lastly, Cottage 4 can sleep up to six people.
Price: The cost is R1 600 per cottage per night.
Contact: You can reach them at montrouge.co.za.

Why this place is great for a luxurious house party

6. Guinevere Guest Farm

Welcome to Guinevere Guest Farm!

When you turn off the R46, you’ll find yourself on a long dirt track that leads you to the magnificent family home of Guinevere Guest Farm. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle, this secluded gem offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s the perfect place to host an extravagant house party, and that’s exactly what this bed and breakfast has become.

During my visit, I discovered that the farm was preparing to host a trance party in its nearby fields. All the DJs and organizers were going to be accommodated in the house itself. Speaking of the house, it boasts nine spacious bedrooms. Upstairs, you’ll find eight of them, and three of those are family rooms that can comfortably sleep six people each. There’s also one self-catering unit downstairs. In total, the house can accommodate a maximum of 32 guests.

As you explore the house, you’ll come across a delightful bar-lounge area on the upper floor, which opens up to the pool and outdoor decks. Downstairs, there’s a large dining room adorned with beautiful art pieces and a fully-equipped demonstration-style kitchen.

Guinevere Guest Farm is passionately managed by William Wyness and Carly Esterhuizen. The couple, who are also busy farmers, have decided to rent out their amazing property to groups (with a minimum of 10 guests) over weekends. However, they are more than happy to offer bed and breakfast stays during the week.

Room tip: If you’re looking for spacious bedrooms, all of them here are enormous. The lower unit can accommodate four people and has a large fireplace and a kitchenette. It’s a great choice if you’re not part of a big group or if you value privacy.
Price: R14,000 per night, sleeps 28
Contact: guinevereguestfarm.com

Discover the Best Historic Accommodation in Town

7. Cape Dutch Quarters and Tulbagh Hotel

If you’re looking to stay on the historic Church Street, you have two great options. The first is the Tulbagh Hotel, which offers B&B Heritage Rooms. This charming country hotel has a staff that goes above and beyond to ensure your stay is unforgettable. They currently have three Heritage Rooms available, and they’re even planning to renovate The Toll House to provide more accommodations. While the non-heritage rooms are still in great shape, they may not have the same character as the Heritage Rooms.

The second option is Cape Dutch Quarters (CDQ), which offers eight self-catering choices. Located on Church Street, CDQ provides a unique experience for those who prefer to have their own space. Each self-catering option is beautifully designed and offers all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay in Tulbagh.

Whether you choose to stay at the Tulbagh Hotel or Cape Dutch Quarters, you’ll be in the heart of the historic Church Street, surrounded by the beauty and charm of this picturesque town. Both options have their own appeal, so it’s up to you to decide which one suits your preferences and needs. Either way, you’re in for a truly memorable stay in Tulbagh.

Hey there! I wanna tell you about CDQ, a really cool place in Tulbagh. They’ve got this amazing guest house called the Tulbagh Country Guest House, with five bedrooms! Plus, they’ve got these awesome self-catering units on Church Street. CDQ is like the go-to spot for tourism tips in town, it’s practically the unofficial tourism bureau!

There’s so much to choose from at CDQ. You’ve got the Coachman’s Cottage and Family Suite, which can sleep up to four people. And then there’s the Wagon Shed, perfect for two people. These places are all part of the guest-house complex, which even has a pool. How awesome is that?

Over on Church Street, you’ll find The Victorian House, which can sleep up to eight people. And just next to it is the Coach House, perfect for two. And if you’re up for a short walk, you can check out the Wittedrift Art Manor, a big old house that sleeps up to 12 people. You can even stay there on a bed and breakfast basis.

If you prefer something smaller, CDQ has got you covered. They’ve got these cute, little converted buildings called Stables and Bain’s Barn. Stables can sleep three people, while Bain’s Barn is great for two.

Now, let’s talk about Travellers Lodge. It’s got three flats, but personally, I wouldn’t book any of them. They just don’t have that special something, you know?

So, if you’re planning a trip to Tulbagh, CDQ is definitely the place to check out for your accommodation needs. They’ve got so many options, you’re bound to find something that suits you. Plus, they’re like a local expert, ready to give you all the tips you need to make the most of your stay. Enjoy your trip!

Here’s a great tip for you: If you’re looking for the ultimate room on Church Street, the Tulbagh Hotel’s Honeymoon Suite is your best bet. It’s enormous and perfect for a romantic getaway.
Price: Starting from R974 per person sharing
Contact: tulbaghhotel.co.za

The Perfect Farmhouse Getaway

8. Oudekloof Wine Estate & Luxury Farmhouse

Welcome to Oudekloof Wine Estate & Luxury Farmhouse!

This place is truly special. Nestled high up in the mountains, Oudekloof is a gorgeous heritage building that has undergone a stunning renovation. The moment you step inside, you’ll be mesmerized by the modern open-plan design and breathtaking views of the vineyards and Witzenberg mountain range from the deck.

Here, you have the option to stay on a B&B or, if you let us know in advance, a DBB basis. But let me tell you, this farmhouse is perfect for a group getaway. With its spacious and inviting kitchen, it’s the ideal place for a group of 10 to gather and enjoy each other’s company.

The living room is something out of a dream, with its enormous open fireplace that adds a touch of warmth and charm. And if you want to cool off, head outside to the pool. Imagine taking a dip while surrounded by stunning views – it’s the ultimate relaxation.

For those who love the great outdoors, Oudekloof has got you covered. There are mountain trails waiting to be explored, perfect for cycling or taking a leisurely walk. And did I mention that the old wagon route over the Obiqua is right on the property? It’s a piece of history that you can experience firsthand.

Preserving nature is important to us, which is why over half of our 440-hectare estate is dedicated to protecting indigenous wildlife, fynbos, and renosterveld. So when you stay here, not only do you get to immerse yourself in luxury and beauty, but you also contribute to the conservation efforts.

Come and experience the magic of Oudekloof Wine Estate & Luxury Farmhouse. We guarantee that you’ll have a truly unforgettable stay!

If you’re looking for a great place to stay, I’ve got a tip for you. On this farm, there are two smaller self-catering options, but the best choice is the five-bedroom main house. It’s the one you should book. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Let me tell you about the best spots in this house. Upstairs, there are the Cabernet and Shiraz suites. They have beautiful thatch ceilings and offer amazing views. It’s like being in paradise! And if you want some extra coziness, both the Shiraz and Chardonnay suites have Jetmaster fireplaces. How perfect is that?

Now, let’s talk about the cost. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to know that it starts from just R250 per person sharing. That’s a great deal for such a wonderful experience!

If you’re interested and want to know more about booking, you can visit oudekloofwineestate.co.za. They’ll have all the information you need to make your reservation.

And to give you a taste of what you can expect, take a look at these beautiful images by Teagan Cunniffe. They’ll make you want to book your stay right away!