A tranquil retreat in the heart of the Swartberg Mountains

Brian Berkman is thoroughly charmed by a nature reserve and its hospitality in the Klein Karoo. Wildehondekloof Private Game Reserve is about 60km outside of Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape on the road that leads past the Cango Caves.

Peace and tranquillity off the grid on a spectacular farm in the Swartland

Dassenheuwel Farm Stay has the orginal farm homestead for families with all the creature comforts, or the cottages for couples. The choice is yours, writes Riaan Hattingh.

The perfect place to explore ‘big sky country’ near the Gariep Dam

Farmer’s Weekly found the ideal midway stopover between Gauteng and the Western Cape or Eastern Cape if you travel in that direction, says Riaan Hattingh.

Remote, rugged and unforgettable

A fly-in safari experience transports guests into one of the last great remaining wilderness areas, says Brian Berkman.

Queen’s Hotel in Oudtshoorn

Brian Berkman says this hotel is still filled with Klein Karoo charm and the glory days of the ostrich feather boom.

Espresso chocolate brownies

These delicious brownies can be enjoyed on their own, or with cream and ice cream. Make sure you make a double batch; your guests will be coming back for seconds, says Lorraine Steyl.

Easy vanilla panna cotta with white chocolate

While this panna cotta may look daunting, it is actually a very easy recipe that will impress friends and family, says Lorraine Steyl.

Lamb shank parcels

These lamb shank parcels are perfect for a Christmas dinner. They are not only delicious but they look the part too, says Lorraine Steyl.

Butter chicken with peaches

The star of this dish is the creamy and spicy sauce, says Lorraine Steyl.

Slow-roasted, juicy pork belly

Step aside, ham! This pork belly may very well earn its place at your future Christmas feasts, says Lorraine Steyl.

Visit a lodge on a game farm in the tranquil Waterberg

You will find pure bliss and tranquillity, as well as excellent game viewing and adventurous hiking, biking, angling and rock climbing at this versatile lodge, writes Riaan Hattingh.

Quirky and arty accommodation at the summit of Bainskloof

Brian Berkman takes to the healing waters at McBains near Wellington and enthuses about the free-spirited space where the owners see themselves as guardians of this extraordinary natural resource.

Idyllic stay in a cottage on the banks of the Breede

River Edge Accommodation offers a superb self-catering stay in cottages on the Breede River near Wolseley in the Western Cape. Camping on the riverbank is also possible, says Brian Berkman.

Fishing and birding bliss at Linger Longer near Dullstroom

The Prinsloo family have added five comfortable cottages to their working farm to provide a delightful getaway for city dwellers. Riaan Hattingh paid it a visit, and came away well rested and highly impressed.

Birds, bees and blissful days in the tranquil Vredefort Dome

The Shallow Pig, a family cottage nestling in the Vredefort Dome, offers the perfect place to unwind, says Riaan Hattingh. And if you want a diversion, the nearby town of Parys offers good food and fun activities.