The River Retreat Kogelberg: Downstream Cottage

Who could resist a swim in the mild and meandering Palmiet River, surrounded by sun-drenched hills and swaying fynbos? That’s what you’ll find at The River Retreat’s two off-the-grid timber units (Upstream Cottage and Downstream Cottage), each boasting two bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, an outdoor dining deck with large glass windows and sliding doors, a wood-burning fireplace in the lounge and – of course – private access to the pristine river. While both cottages are very similar, Downstream Cottage has an additional dining deck overlooking the river for unique family or group gatherings.

Part of the UNESCO Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, these cottages promise to deliver a fully immersive experience of nature in its breathtaking, untamed glory. The neighbouring Kogelberg Nature Reserve is a magnificent World Heritage Site with approximately 1 800 plant species. 

Good to know
There is no signal or WiFi at the cottages – a genuine digital detox.

THE LODGINGS

Bedrooms + bathrooms

• 2 bedrooms (one queen and two singles)
• 1 bathroom (shower only)
• Bathroom amenities 

Indoor living

• Well-equipped kitchen with an electric fridge-freezer and a gas stove and oven
• Kitchen counter with four bar stools
• Open-plan living area
• Wood-burning fireplace (a bundle of firewood is provided) 
• Coffee and tea facilities
• Limited solar system (powers only the fridge-freezer, lights and plugs to charge phones and laptops)

Outdoor living

• Outdoor dining deck with large glass windows and sliding doors
• Additional deck overlooking the river (Downstream Cottage only)
• Private access to the Palmiet River

THINGS TO DO

On the property

• Hiking 
• Mountain-biking
• Swimming in the river
• Sunbathing
• Stargazing 

In the area

• Hiking and mountain-biking
• Clarence Drive (one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives)
• Various beaches
• African penguins in Betty’s Bay
• Quaint cafes and shops in Kleinmond, Betty’s Bay, Pringle Bay and Rooiels