After a long and trying year, here are eight of the best South African family getaways you can enjoy this December. Better still, why rush it. Next year’s twelve public holidays fall enticingly near to weekends in 2025. So, with a bit of forward planning, you could secure yourself a full month off work through long weekends to enjoy any of the family friendly stays below …
SOUTH AFRICAN FAMILY GETAWAYS
1. CHAMPAGNE SPORTS RESORT
Surrounded by the majestic Drakensberg mountains, this resort truly is one of the ultimate South African family getaways. It has something for everyone and if sports is your game then you’ve come to the right place. Golf, basketball, bowls, a kiddie play area, gym, squash courts, putting greens, tennis and mountain biking. There’s even a helicopter ride in your future to satisfy your Airwolf desires.
2. AFRICAMPS BOUTIQUE CAMPS
A list of 2024’s best South African family getaways cannot be without AfriCamps boutique camping. All the fun of camping minus the self-deflating mattress and plastic cutlery. They’re all over the show now, but we’re most taken by Pat Busch Mountain Reserve in Robertson. It’s a small slice of heaven in the rustic Western Cape. A laidback ‘glamping’ spot that’s perfect for a bit of rest and relaxation far away from the maddening crowds in 2024.
3. KURLAND HOTEL
Situated on a 700-hectre private estate in Plettenberg Bay, this hotel loves to cater for younger guests. Children’s rooms are appropriately appointed with mini-me gowns and toys, there’s even a Children’s Dining Conservatory for meals. But, best of all, children less than five-years old stay for mahala. And there’s a babysitting service on request so you can enjoy the spa or a romantic dinner for two.
4. PEZULU TREE HOUSE AND GAME LODGE
One of the South African family getaways for the family that loves nature. Situated in Limpopo, the accommodation is built in harmony with the surrounding environment. That’s why growing tree branches come through the units. Enjoy a guided walk among the giraffes and zebras. And a day visit to Kruger National Park, God’s Window or one of the many animal rehabilitation centres nearby.
5. PINE LAKE MARINA
Teenage-holiday dreams are made of these. They’re about mingling shyly with other teens, plenty of space away from lame adults and smartphones. And, of course, plenty of water-sport activities. Pine Lake Marina in Sedgefield ticks all the right boxes to ensure a happy teenager on holiday. Just be prepared for grumpiness on the ride home when the holiday fling comes to an end.
6. CLARENS COUNTRY HOUSE
Once a sheep shed, this beautiful century-old stone building in the Free State is set in the Clarens Golf Estate. Perfect as a summer retreat or winter wonderland getaway (snow falls regularly in season) there’s plenty to do for all generations. Including a game of golf, in-house spa treatments, a trip to the local brewery or some extreme adventures like zip-lining, white-water rafting and archery.
7. SANPARKS FOREST TIMBER DECKS
In the heart of the Diepwalle forest in Knysna, this camping site is situated on wooden decks where you can setup your canvas home … away from home. Pack some lunch and explore the hiking trails, mountain-biking routes, as well as the flora and fauna unique to the region amongst the lakes and kloofs. And prepare to be awestruck.
8. WALKERSONS HOTEL AND SPA
Oozing old-world charm in Dullstroom, the luxurious hotel was modelled to emulate a Scottish country manor. With all the niceties for a truly indulgent stay, Walkersons is a must in the area. Should the relaxing become too sedentary, there are a host of on-site activities. Including fly fishing, horse riding, hiking, golf and whiskey tasting. But we’d recommend relaxing poolside before enjoying the award-winning chef’s fabulous feasts.
GOT A TIP FOR THE SOUTH AFRICAN AUDIENCE?
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