The Shepherd's Cottage

• Property TypeHouse
• Guests6
• Bedrooms3
• Bathrooms2
• Minimum Stay2 Nights
• + 
• • FEATUREPool

About The Shepherd's Cottage

Escaping to the peaceful solitude of the Karoo works quiet wonders on one’s well-being. At the Shepherd’s Cottage, you’re invited to fully disconnect and embrace the silence, stillness, and solitude that only the open plains can offer. With nothing but the vast expanse of land to influence your thoughts, even time begins to slow. And when night falls, the deep indigo sky, pierced by countless stars, reminds you why a Karoo night is in a league of its own.

Self-Catering Accommodation

Shepherd’s Cottage offers three well-appointed bedrooms. The main bedroom features a king-size bed and an en-suite bathroom with a toilet, bidet, and shower, along with direct access to the stoep and sweeping views. Two additional queen bedrooms each have their own views and share a spacious en-suite bathroom equipped with a toilet, bidet, and double shower. All linen, bath towels, and swimming towels are provided for your comfort.

The cottage is off-grid and fully solar-powered, ensuring a seamless escape with no load shedding. The kitchen is fitted with a gas stove and oven, fridge, freezer (with additional freezing facilities), a four-slice toaster, and a Nespresso machine with a starter pack of ten pods.

Designed for rest and reconnection, the living and dining areas open onto breathtaking views of the Swartberg mountains. A central wood-burning fireplace keeps the entire home cosy, while additional electric and gas heaters, hot water bottles, and blankets ensure warmth through cooler nights.

Step outside to the stoep or cool off in the elevated, Karoo-style plunge pool. The outdoor boma and firepit area is ideal for starlit braais, with two bags of wood provided. A Bluetooth speaker, WiFi, and all the comforts of a well-thought-out home round out the experience.

Hiking On Site

Each guest receives the De Aap Trail Guide & Reference Map upon arrival, a helpful companion to the many scenic walking and hiking routes within the Nature Reserve.

Trails range from gentle strolls among the Fynbos to more demanding hikes through gorges and valleys, with points of interest named in true Karoo style. It’s a perfect opportunity to explore the unique ecosystem, either alone or with loved ones, and to gain a deeper appreciation for the distinctive plant and animal life that flourish in this extraordinary part of the world.