The Garden Route, South Africa
Thorntree Country House
Charming Family-run Homestead Hotel in the Interior
Situated further into the interior of the Garden Route in the Klein Karoo near Oudtshoorn, this charming family-run homestead has all the character and warmth of a guesthouse with the flair of an elegant countryside hotel.
For those interested in seeing the Garden Route’s more rural side, life in the Western Cape’s interior is rooted in the farming of the settlers and the rugged landscapes of the Little Karoo, scenic mountain passes and traditional settler towns such as Prince Albert. And what many see as a more authentic alternative to the coastal route.
Thorntree has sixteen well-appointed rooms (two inter-leading ones for families) housed in converted and restored farm buildings dating back to the 1800s, filled with all the modern amenities but capturing all the charm of peaceful countryside living, with 360-degree views of the picturesque Schoemanshoek Valley.
The perfect base for some of the area’s unique activities such as caving, abseiling, ostrich farms and scenic drives and treks, Thorntree is an absolute delight to either relax in for the entire day or to return to after a day’s outing.
Highlights
Caving at the Cango Caves
Visit the local Cango Ostrich Farm and Cango Wildlife Farm
Trips to the Swartberg Pass and Little Karoo
Sixteen rooms (two inter-leading)
Swimming pool
Restaurant
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Trip Inspiration
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Places to combine Thorntree Country House with
Etosha National Park
Encounter by Ongava is an intimate safari camp set within Ongava Game Reserve, on the southern edge of Etosha National Park. You’ll be surrounded by Mopane woodland and wildlife moving freely through the landscape.
There are eight spacious walk-in tents: seven standard tents and one paired tent that works well for families or small groups. Each tent has an en-suite bathroom with an outdoor shower and a private deck.
You can head out on game drives across the 30,000-hectare Ongava Game Reserve. The area is known for its rhino population, as well as lion, zebra and antelope, including the endemic black-faced impala. We especially recommend private guided nature walks, where you can slow down, appreciate the small details and explore with minimal impact. There may be the chance to approach white rhino on foot, as well as spend time bird watching.
For a wider safari experience, take a guided excursion into nearby Etosha National Park, Namibia’s prime savannah wilderness area. At the Ongava Visitor Centre, learn about the region’s geology, wildlife, plants and ecology.
Back at camp, slow down by the pool, settle into the library or gather at the bar as evening falls. The day softens into drinks, quiet conversation and the sounds of the reserve.
