Sometimes one chooses a place so one can explore the surrounding locality - but here is a delightful Victorian hotel which is really a destination in itself. There are extensive gardens from which are many miles of hiking trails. You can swim in the river or the dam or the hotel pool. Go outside after dark and lie on your... More

We had read about the Retreat in a guide book and it sounded fabulous. We were not disappointed. We had decided to drive Route 62 rather than take the more conventional route to the Garden route. This meant we travelled through the Little Karoo. Fabulous scenery and when you get to Calitzdorp you turn left and drive for about 23... More

If you are looking for fabulous walks in beautiful mountains, this is the place for you. The retreat center is beautifully set in a remote area, very quiet and peaceful. I and my husband, both in our late sixties, spent two days here enjoying early morning walks in the sunrise, swims in the dam, and delicious dinners in good company... More

Good accommodation and quirky hosts. It is a long way from anywhere so be prepared for isolation, but also a wonderful opportunity to relax and stop travelling. We particularly enjoyed eating with all the other guests on the terrace. Wonderful view of the Milky Way at night as there is no light pollution. More

We were totally surprised what we have found! For people who are tired of city life, this is just what the doctor ordered! It is the most tranquil place where you can enjoy the unspoiled nature and do some hiking in the mountains, swim in real unpolluted, cool rock pools in the mountain stream when hot. Most comfortable accommodation, we... More

A unique experience. Dow to earth people running it - with a continental touch. Marie, who make the most delicious food is Swedish. She and Grant are the most charming hosts. This is a place where you can recharge your batteries, chill out, think. A Retreat in every sense of the word. More

This really is a place where you can sit back, relax and enjoy the views, birds and surrounding nature. Hikes are availible, but also just sitting on the verandah or near the pool is a treat. The lovely hosts really make you feel welcome and introduce you to other guests. The meals are excellent, the rooms clean and comfortable. More

We left Europe in snowstorm for two weeks in South Afrika. After two great days in Capetown we went to The Retreat at Groenfontein. During our stay on christmas 2010 we were taken care of in a most wonderful way. We will never forget Grant and Marie and their staff, the meals, the bedrooms, the wonderful nature. Not to forget... More

I rarely write reviews because I think it’s unfair in many ways, to criticize anything you’re unable to do yourself - but occasionally, just for the hell of it, I look at Tripadvisor, to read some of the current reviews of guesthouses we’ve stayed at previously. In doing so, I recently came across a vicious and personalized attack on the... More