Cederberg Ridge Wilderness Lodge is located just 2.5 hours from Cape Town, on a route north that encourages you to meander through road-trip highlights like Riebeek Kasteel, Porterville and Citrusdal.

Don’t underestimate the trip, not for its length but rather its subtle yet potent effect on the spirit. The Cederberg’s wide open spaces and magnificent mountain range quickly seep under your skin, starting the process of unwinding while still on the road.

This sense of serenity is strengthened from the moment you step inside the lodge’s calm, sophisticated interiors to be greeted with cool air conditioning in summer and a cucumber sorbet, or something to warm you next to the crackling fire in winter.

The original stone farmhouse has been updated, while retaining its sense of place and scale. Large French doors open onto a generous wrap around verandah, with views over the lawn, pool, veld and escarpment beyond. It houses the reception, sitting room, library, bar and restaurant.

Dining happens al fresco, weather permitting. The wine and drinks list has been curated well, favouring local spirits and boutique wine farms from the area. A pre-dinner sundowner is the perfect way to end the day, watching the mountains turn pink and the weaver birds dart about the acacia tree just off the deck. The menu too showcases the South African context, with game, seasonal fruit and veg, and flavours of fynbos, buchu and rooibos infusing classic continental cuisine.

Away from the light pollution of the city, the Cederberg is known for its night skies, and the lodge arranges after-dinner stargazing with a member of staff. This is one of the many activities and excursions on offer at Cederberg Ridge, that is if you choose to drag yourself away from the spa or picturesque pool.

Hiking is a popular pursuit in the Cederberg and you don’t have to go far here: the lodge is set on a 3 000 ha citrus and grape farm with self-guided or guided walks on offer. Find out from your guide about the endangered Clanwilliam Cedar, a tree endemic to the area that Cederberg is named for, and the efforts to preserve it. You can also arrange to take a bike to explore the property.

The surrounding mountain ridge catches the morning and afternoon light in the most spectacular fashion. That’s the view you wake up to from one of the nine spacious and private suites. All have fireplaces, bathtubs, and outdoor showers.

With its easy access from Cape Town, Cederberg Ridge is an unexpected city break… its mountain-top setting combined with a bushveld feel that’s rarely found in the Western Cape creates that longed-for sense of escape.

What we love!

• The service. The experienced husband and wife management team of Craig Parsons and Leisha Cornelius, and well-trained staff, do an excellent job of welcoming you, making you feel immediately at home and anticipating your needs without being intrusive.
• The pool. If you visit during the Cederberg’s hot, dry summer months, you’ll be spending a lot of time by the pool. Happily it is a good size for taking long slow laps as you soak in the panoramic views.
• The spa. A massage truly tips the relaxation scales. Picture a room scented with Africology products, light filtering in gently through gauze curtains, and soft music to help you completely unwind.
• Exploring the area. Cederberg Ridge’s seasonal activities vary and are on a rotating roster which may include Rock Art excursions, guided Rooibos Farm tours, excursions into the Cederberg, farm tours, and boating trips to Clanwillian dam in summer, amongst others.

What you need to know…

• The rates are calculated on DBB (Dinner, Bed and Breakfast) or FBA (Full Board and Activities, which includes two scheduled excursions per day). Drinks, spa treatments and transfers are excluded.
• The lodge and suites all have wi-fi.
• Don’t forget to pack your swimming costume in summer and hiking shoes all year round – winter evenings may be chilly, but you’re likely to be blessed with mild days that are perfect for hiking.

Reviewed by Amelia Brown