Bushman’s Kloof

In the Cederberg Mountains 168 miles north of Cape Town, lies Bushman’s Kloof, a unique wilderness reserve and wellness retreat. The rugged landscape is ideal for hiking, biking, canoeing, or swimming, and–except for the rare Cape Leopard–the reserve is largely free of predators. You will encounter other wildlife in the area, including hartebeest, eland, bat-eared foxes, and one of the largest private herds of Cape Mountain Zebra in the world. The mountains also form the northern frontier of the Cape fynbos ecoregion, so there is a spectacular array of flowering plants to be seen. Beyond the beautiful location, the property is notable for being a sanctuary to more than 130 ancient San Rock art sites. Tours are available of the sites, which have been awarded the highest level of South African National Heritage site designation for the preservation efforts of the reserve.

All of the retreat’s rooms and houses are done in an indigenous-influenced Cape Dutch style and overlook landscaped gardens and the mountains beyond. The food is organic, locally sourced, or grown on-site, and is often served al fresco in scenic locations. A variety of relaxing treatments and classes are offered by the well-regarded spa. Meditation on the natural environment is a consistent theme at Bushman’s Kloof because they believe that it can be the most healing treatment of all.