If you’re looking for an escape with a fine view, The Edge Mountain Retreat in Hogsback, Eastern Cape is one not to miss.
The reception and restaurant area of this lodge is roundly unassuming – little prepares you for the mountainous backdrop hidden behind it. With heart-stirring self-catering chalets on the verge of a cliff, The Edge Mountain Retreat sure deserves its name. Some days swirling mists swallow the view, but with fireplaces indoors it’s okay to curl up under the feather duvet instead.
Image by Melanie van Zyl
When the sun shines, you can hike these cliffs or roam flowering gardens planted with azaleas, rhododendrons, beeches, birches, dogwoods, camellias and enormous oaks, chestnuts and liquid ambers. Thanks to the mountainous heights, birdwatching is good too. Here you might catch birds of prey, including eagles, jackal buzzards and kites enjoying the thermals that spiral up from the cliff edge – keep your eyes peeled for the endangered Cape parrots that frequent the area. If these views are lacking, there are many waterfalls to explore nearby – find the best lookouts at the Kettlespout Falls and at The Eco-Shrine.
Image by Melanie van Zyl
Do it
Self-catering cottages range from romantic stays for couples to two- and three-bedroom cottages for four or more. Some chalets only have garden views, so specify the cliff-facing ones when you book. My favourites were Over-The-Edge rondavel, perfect for couples, with a stunning viewing deck (from R1,100 for two), and Thunderstone rondavel, which definitely takes the cake for privacy and panoramas (from R1,400 for two).
The Edge Mountain Retreat from Elise Kirsten on Vimeo.
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