Phillipskop Mountain Reserve

Perched on the slopes of the Klein River Mountains, with sweeping views across the Overberg from the Akkedisberg to Gansbaai, Phillipskop Mountain Reserve is a place for you to unwind and explore. The reserve, around 250ha in size, is dominated by the pointed summit of Phillipskop and covered with almost pristine fynbos. It is situated just 10km outside Stanford and within easy reach of Hermanus and Gansbaai.

The spacious chalet-style cottage has 3 bedrooms: a double en-suite and two twins with a shared bathroom containing bath and shower. All towels and bedding are provided. The main living area is open plan with plenty of room so that you are not getting under each other’s feet. It comprises a dining area with large 8-seater table; a kitchen with fridge-freezer, gas stove, microwave and other essential items; and a comfy sitting area with views up to Phillipskop. The sitting area has a log-burning stove for the cooler months, and the cottage is supplied with solar hot water, including electric back-up so that you never run out. There is the essential braai area on the mountain side of the cottage and a large deck on the valley side, so that you can take in the views.

The reserve itself is available to explore, whether it is just a gentle walk around the slopes to the waterfall, or a more adventurous hike to the cave, rock stack or even the peak of Phillipskop itself. Flowers abound throughout the reserve and if you want to learn more about the unique fynbos that grows in this part of South Africa then you can request a guided walk.

There is a lot to do in the neighbouring area. The popular Klein River Cheese Factory is just below the reserve, with its famous picnics on offer during the summer months and play area for children. The Birkenhead Brewery, various vineyards and restaurants provide plenty of opportunities to engage your taste buds. The old town of Stanford is lovely for a historic wander or to enjoy the various local markets that are put on through the year. Boat trips, especially good for birdwatching, can be organised from there along the Klein River. Further afield, there is Hermanus, with its whale-watching, or Gansbaai, for shark-cage diving and boat trips to Dyer Island.

We are sure that you will enjoy all that Phillipskop has to offer. Whether it is just a weekend to unwind and soak up the views, or you are staying longer to explore both the reserve and the wider area with all its attractions.