Jenna, our General Manager from our incentive team, recently travelled to Cederberg for a getaway with her sister and mother. They stayed at the Cederberg Ridge Wilderness Lodge, a luxurious wilderness lodge located in the rocky Cederberg Mountains area, that’s just a 2.5-hour drive from Cape Town and the Cape Winelands.

This area is known for its grandiose mountains, rooibos tea farms, hiking trails and San rock art. From the unique birdlife to dips in crisp mountain rock pools, a stay in the diverse landscape of the Cederberg is a glimpse of paradise.

First impression of Cederberg Ridge Wilderness Lodge?

This beautiful gem in the Cederberg has been on my bucket list since its opening in 2018. Upon arrival, our expectations were exceeded by what we saw and experienced; it’s a warm and cosy lodge with a modern flair. The lodge has the most spectacular uninterrupted views of the Cederberg Mountains and a friendly welcoming team.

Which traveller would enjoy this?

Cederberg Ridge Wilderness Lodge is a haven for travellers who enjoy exploring the great outdoors or want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for peace and tranquillity.

Being a boutique property, the owners still gave thought to all types of travellers and can accommodate families or small groups of friends by means of inter-leading rooms and classic rooms (these are wheelchair-friendly).

What activities did you do?

Despite the very chilly August air and heavy grey clouds on the Saturday morning, we ventured out into the unspoilt Cederberg wilderness on a 16 km hike, combining 2 of the lodge trails into 1 as we were eager to enjoy as much of the outdoors as possible. The change in terrain as we hiked up and around the Kanonkop was so pretty, and we couldn’t help but to stop frequently and take in all the openness and beauty that surrounded us.

We also enjoyed sampling several delicious Cederberg wines from the well-stocked wine selection at the lodge and left with a new favourite.

Our 2-night stay was over too quickly as there is so much more to do and see so I would recommend a 3-night stay which would enable you to enjoy a visit to the ancient rock art sites that’s arranged through the lodge (self-drive or guided option available), a spa treatment and some cycling.

Highlights of the trip?

I loved exploring the wilderness straight from our suite without having to get in a car and drive somewhere; relaxing outside on the restaurant deck listening to the weaver birds chirping and making their nests in the trees; star gazing… it doesn’t get much better than the Cederberg’s night sky.

Our hosts Craig and Leisha went out of their way to set up a private dinner for a birthday celebration, baked a beautiful cake and had the entire team sing happy birthday. Every meal from start to finish was an experience in itself, and we enjoyed the menu options and some fabulous local dishes on offer.

Any final comments?

We enjoyed a truly memorable experience at Cederberg Wilderness Lodge and it’s a property that our entire group would highly recommend to our guests, family and friends.

Cederberg is an excellent destination for families or small incentive groups. Are you thinking of a mountain getaway for your next trip? Drop us a message.

Written by: Jenna De Allende