If cabin fever is getting you down in Cape Town’s colder months, this list is for you. The Western Cape is home to some amazing natural hot springs for a winter getaway so you can still enjoy the outdoors no matter the time of year.
Below you’ll find a list of some luxurious hot springs coupled with relaxing accommodation and leisure activities to get rid of that winter chill.
Caledon Hotel & Spa
Well known to locals, The Caledon Hotel and Spa is a popular choice for Capetonians. It’s just over an hour away from the city (about 113km), making it a great spot for a weekend away or even a day trip. This Overberg retreat boasts not only their natural hot springs but also the hundred-year-old Victorian Bath and an award-winning spa.
The well-appointed accommodations include the choice of their standard rooms, superior rooms, or a suite for extra space and comfort.
Price: Prices per night start at R1395 and vary depending on the day or time of year. Day tickets range from R75-R175 from Tuesdays to Sundays (it’s not available on Mondays), which you can book on Computicket.
Address: 1 Nerina Avenue, Caledon, Western Cape, South Africa
Website: www.tsogosun.com/hotel/the-caledon-hotel-spa
AKTV Goudini Spa
A true fan-favourite with a long history of being the resort of choice for Cape Town locals, AKTV Goudini Spa is a must visit. Located in the picturesque Boland area, 95.5km from Cape Town central, ‘Goudini’ (as it’s known to the locals) has no shortage of activities – from its mineral pools, to its supertube, tennis and volleyball courts, and games room. The accommodation is self-catering and fully equipped with an array of offerings to cater for large or small groups. Guests can choose from the Boland Houses (6 or 8-sleeper units), Badsberg Flats (5 or 6-sleeper units), Slanghoek Villas (6-sleeper units), or the Rondawels (4 to 6-sleeper units).
Price: From R515 – R5405 per night (depending on chosen unit and days of the week). Day visitors pay R120 for adults and R95 for kids.
Address: Wyzersdrift Road, Rawsonville, Western Cape, South Africa
Website: goudinispa.co.za
The Baths Natural Hot Springs
If you’re looking for an idyllic resort with natural springs reaching 43 degrees celsius and a good amount of history thrown in, The Baths is for you. It is located near Citrusdal, a small town at the base of the Cederberg mountains amidst lush farmlands. Mention of the springs, which flow from an artesian well, dates all the way back to the year 1739 when the Dutch East India Company constructed a building and bath huts to facilitate bathing in the springs. However, the history of the area can be traced much further back so it’s worth visiting the San Rock Art nearby.
There’s no shortage of activities in Citrusdal where visitors can do some hiking, play a few rounds of golf, or explore the scenic surroundings on horseback. Accommodation options include chalets, flats, caravans, and camping sites.
Price: R1200 – R4000 per unit per night. Camp site prices range from R180 – R220 per night.
Address: The Baths Farm, The Baths Road, Citrusdal, Western Cape, South Africa
Website: thebaths.co.za
Montagu Springs
Montagu is a charming little town surrounded by the Langeberg Mountains and known for its rich agricultural heritage (vineyards and orchards abound!) and, of course, its renowned natural hot springs. The resort is located on the famous Route 62, a scenic road connecting the Western Cape and the Eastern Cape and known for spectacular views and some of South Africa’s most remarkable ecology. It stretches for 850km and offers unique opportunities to visit and support small farming villages and boasts the title of the longest wine route in the world!
Aside from the stunning location, the resort itself is fully equipped with a myriad of activities including sports facilities (tennis, cycling, football, and volleyball), multiple swimming pools both heated and cold for the warmer days, as well as playgrounds and a games room for kids. Accommodations on offer include large and small chalets in a variety of different styles, or private villas nestled away in the slightly higher reaches of the resort.
Price: R835 – R2455
Address: Uitvlugt St, Badshoogte, Montagu, Western Cape, South Africa
Website: montagusprings.co.za
Warmwaterberg Spa
Warmwaterberg Spa is another Route 62 gem located between Barrydale and Ladismith. The mineral hot spring is situated on a large property which offers self-catering accommodation (houses, chalets, caravans, or camping facilities), a restaurant, and a spa. The nearby Barrydale is well worth a visit, especially during tourist season when visitors flock to the town to check out the local markets as well as their annual sporting events and spring festival.
Price: Self-catering accommodation ranges from R690 – R1890
Address: Scenic Cape Route 62, Warmwaterberg, Western Cape, South Africa
Website: warmwaterbergspa.co.za
Calitzdorp Hot Springs
Calitzdorp Hot Springs offers a tranquil retreat in the Klein Karoo mountains with water temperatures reaching a comfortable 50 degrees celsius. If the heat gets too much, there are two cold pools to cool off in and a variety of sports facilities to make use of. The real draw of this resort, however, is the magnificent flora and fauna set against a picturesque backdrop. Calitzberg Hot Springs is also a bird watcher’s delight with a dedicated birdwatching spot to absorb all the sights and sounds of over 72 different species.
Visitors can choose from a variety of chalets to accommodate large or small groups or opt for the immersive campsite with your pick of caravans or tents. Activities range from wine tasting to fruit picking, hiking, and even the occasional outdoor festival.
Price: Chalets range from R618 to R1236 per unit per night depending on the season and size of the chalet. The caravan and tent site ranges from R225 – R449 per night.
Address: DR1688 Road, Calitzdorp, Western Cape , South Africa
Website: calitzdorphotsprings.co.za
