My Best Child-friendly Accommodation across the Western Cape and Northern Cape

A few years ago, I compiled a list on My Best Child-friendly Restaurants and Wine Farms near Cape Town. Since then, the response to that post has been overwhelming.

At the time of my writing it, most of my friends had children but never knew where to take them. And I was inspired to write a post to help parents.

Fast forward a few years and now, as a new mother myself, I have a deeply vested interest in not only finding child-friendly places but also in sharing them.

Load Up the Pram, Baby, Let’s Hit the Road

I know it’s daunting travelling with kids (any parent, grandparent or guardian can attest to this) but it can be so worthwhile.

The memories we’ve already built with our child in the first year of life are priceless.

Our little one has travelled across two provinces. We have tackled the West Coast, Route 62 and the vast Cape Overberg Region and now even parts of the Northern Cape, including icy Sutherland (famously the coldest town in South Africa).

We have eaten out at restaurants and cafes, explored small towns and farm stalls along the way, enjoyed incredible game drives, touched pristine beaches with tiny toes, watched gorgeous coastal sunsets or awe-inspiring starlit skies together and, of course, savoured the very best in child-friendly accommodation. And now? I’m sharing it with you.

Because baby- and child-friendly travel is possible. What’s more, it can be so special! (Just don’t forget the baby bag at home.) As I said in my child-friendly restaurants post, nobody gets to put baby in the corner. 🙂

My Best Child-friendly Accommodation near Cape Town or in the Western Cape

 

De Hoop Collection, De Hoop Nature Reserve (Nearest town: Swellendam or Bredasdorp)

De Hoop Collection, located near to the small Overberg town of Bredasdorp and some three hours’ away from Cape Town, is one of the most magical family-friendly accommodation stays you will find in the whole of South Africa – and beyond.

It’s no surprise that people travel from all over the world to stay here with their families. After enjoying our first big family holiday at De Hoop Nature Reserve in springtime, I can truly see why.

De Hoop Collection offers stunning amenities and service, excellent nature- and game-viewing and a host of incredible experiences to cherish for a lifetime.

My only advice, especially if travelling with little kids, is to make sure you have some basic medicine on hand as it is a bit remote compared to some accommodation stays.

Beyond that, De Hoop promises the most wonderful child-friendly accommodation and is the ideal family getaway in the Western Cape.

• Camp cot or children’s bed available?

Yes, a camp cot was provided for us, complete with a little blanket for my baby. It made settling in so easy. Our baby also had the most splendid view from his camp cot.

• Interleading or family rooms?

We stayed in the Cloete 1 Suite, which was spacious and perfect for a family stay, especially with a small child.

You have the option to rent both Cloete 1 and 2 Suites to create interleading accommodation. This is ideal for bigger families.

Alternatively, De Hoop offers other, additional family-friendly accommodation.

• Stroller-friendly property?

Definitely, it is rustic but you can use a stroller. However, our suite was centrally located and everything was within short walking distance (a short, two-minute walk or so) too, including the Fig Tree restaurant, the child-friendly pool (near the tennis court) and the tennis court.

• Child-changing facilities?

We didn’t need any as we changed baba in our car or at our suite but I assume there are some on the property.

• Outdoor play area or indoor play space?

Yes, De Hoop Collection has a lovely outdoor play area near the restaurant. The Origins exhibit is also family-friendly and even has some interactive play features, such as educational fun facts, ostrich eggshell painting and more.

Beyond that, a number of De Hoop’s activities are family-friendly and fun for all ages. For more information, please see my De Hoop review.

• Kids’ club or babysitting service?

Yes, babysitting services can be pre-arranged. Please speak to the De Hoop Collection team directly about this.

• Child-safe pool or swimming on-site?

Yes, the swimming pool near our suite, which is closest to the tennis court, is family-friendly. Please note that the swimming pool near the restaurant is, however, strictly for adults.

The swimming pool near the tennis court is enclosed by a fence but there is no swimming pool net so parents are responsible for their children’s safety.

• Child-friendly eatery: with kids’ menu or high chair?

The Fig Tree restaurant is hugely child-friendly. They were so welcoming and accommodating to our little one. It was baby’s first big ‘dinner’ experience at a public restaurant too but we managed.

The restaurant did provide us with a high chair. While there isn’t a specific kids’ menu, children happily eat the food at this restaurant.

For little ones busy weaning, you might have to bring your own solids or, for example, request something like baby-safe fruit from the kitchen like we did on occasion.

• Kid-friendly activities on-site or nearby?

There are a number of child-friendly experiences, including nature drives, game viewing from your accommodation or the surrounds, visits to the dunes, sheltered beaches and rock pools and/or the beach café at Koppie Alleen, the interactive Origins exhibit (children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult though), swimming in the child-friendly pool, embarking on an eco boat cruise and much more.

Again, for more information, please refer to my De Hoop review.

• Accommodation contact info:

+27 (021) 422 4522, info@dehoopcollection.co.za

 

The Farmhouse Hotel, West Coast (Nearest town: Langebaan)

This West Coast gem is one of the lovelier hotels you will find in a small town but with views of the lagoon, excellent facilities and professional staff and the most striking sunsets, The Farmhouse Hotel makes for a wonderfully family-friendly getaway. As a bonus, they are also pet-friendly (upon request) so the whole family can enjoy a seaside escape.

This was one of the first experiences we had dining out for breakfast or afternoon tea with our then-six-month-old baby and we found the restaurant staff so welcoming and friendly. There were also kids of varying ages staying at the hotel.

• Camp cot or children’s bed available?

Yes, the hotel can provide a camp cot upon request. We stayed in the Panoramic Lagoon View Hot Tub Room, which included a handy day bed.

However, the hotel has special Family Rooms too. The Family Room 20 offers two spacious bedrooms, while the Family Adventure Pads can sleep two guests and two children aged 0-14 years. For an additional price per night, you can add a bunk bed.

• Interleading or family rooms?

Yes, as mentioned, they have Family Rooms.

• Stroller-friendly property?

We found the property generally stroller-friendly but there are stairs in places.

• Child-changing facilities?

Not as far as I know. We just used our room.

• Outdoor play area or indoor play space?

Yes, they have a nice outdoor play area in front of the restaurant on the lawn. It also enjoys lovely lagoon views.

• Kids’ club or babysitting service?

No, they don’t offer babysitting services as far as I know.

• Child-safe pool or swimming on-site?

Yes, there is a pool on-site (with pool loungers and lilos available to guests). Some rooms also have a hot tub, which I suppose can be nice for older kids.

Parents are responsible for ensuring their children’s safety, especially as the pool is not enclosed or fenced off and does not have a net.

• Child-friendly eatery: with kids’ menu or high chair?

Yes, the restaurant La Petit Maison welcomes children. Despite being a fine dining eatery, we found them so graciously welcoming to our little one. They have a kiddies’ menu for under 12s.

We didn’t use a high chair as we just held our baby while eating but I am sure they can probably provide one. But you will need to check with them directly.

• Kid-friendly activities on-site or nearby?

Yes, there is the outdoor playground, as well as an indoor pool table and games room, which also offers some board games to enjoy. Beyond that, older kids will no doubt enjoy the daily tea time.

Of course, the West Coast offers many outdoor adventures, which include stand-up paddle boarding, beach walks, kite surfing, swimming at the lagoon, exploring the West Coast National Park or the Fossil Park, adventuring at Thali Thali Game Lodge and more.

• Accommodation contact info:

+27 (0 21) 430 4000, bookings@thefarmhousehotel.com

Karoo Prinia, The Barn on 62, Route 62 (Nearest town: Montagu)

Karoo Prinia, located at The Barn on 62 in tranquil Route 62 town, Montagu (my old home town) is such a idyllic places for couples with a baby or even larger families to enjoy.

It’s really one of the most beautiful places we have stayed. What’s more, we found the hospitality so warm and inviting, in true Klein Karoo style.

Everything about this accommodation stay is lovely but the best part is that they welcome children. It’s not highly advertised on their website but they can happily have families to stay.

They are also pet-friendly to well-behaved dogs by arrangement. But you should definitely discuss your pet’s stay with them in advance.

Karoo Prinia remains so special and memorable that we really would love to visit again once our baby is older (at the time of our visit, baba was only about seven months old). Especially as Montagu itself is such a hugely family-friendly town.

For more details on this Route 62 charmer, please see my review here. 

• Camp cot or children’s bed available?

Yes, for babies up to around 18 months, they provide a camp cot on request. Our baby enjoyed the best views from the camp cot too.

For older kids who stay, they normally bunk overnight with their parents.

• Interleading or family rooms?

Our unit was the Karoo Prinia cottage, which is a self-catering unit with upstairs and downstairs levels.

It does offer the option to create interleading accommodation by adjoining the neighbouring cottage (Red Bishop). This is ideal for larger family stays.

• Stroller-friendly property?

Yes, the location is very central (on Montagu’s main street, Long Street). The property’s layout makes it quite manageable even with a stroller.

There is also a great veranda for sitting outdoors with the stroller if needed.

• Child-changing facilities?

I am not sure. Possibly in the restaurant’s bathroom but we didn’t need any changing facilities as our cottage was so close by.

• Outdoor play area or indoor play space?

Yes, there’s a lovely outdoor play area, as well as the organic garden and the cottage’s own lawn area for kids to explore.

Please just ensure they do so under adult supervision and don’t damage the organic garden in any way.

There is also a beautiful swimming pool at the cottage but again, parent supervision is required.

• Kids’ club or babysitting service?

No, there are no services like that on offer here.

• Child-safe pool or swimming on-site?

There is a swimming pool available with the Karoo Prinia. However, parents are responsible for ensuring their children’s swimming safety. There is no net over the swimming pool and it is not gated.

• Child-friendly eatery: with kids’ menu or high chair?

The restaurant is a stone’s throw away and offers some lovely breakfasts and lunches, some of which are certainly kid-friendly enough.

They can also provide a high chair and it’s a very pleasant, relaxed setting (with an outside courtyard and pond area too) so it’s certainly welcoming to families.

• Kid-friendly activities on-site or nearby?

Not specifically on-site, no. However, Montagu has some incredible family-friendly activities in and around the town, including rock climbing, peaceful strolls about town, nature walks and hikes in the nature garden or mountains, MTB trails for adventurous families, tractor rides, hot water springs, bird watching at Leidam, fun at the family-friendly Saturday Park Market and so much more.

• Accommodation contact info:

+27 (073) 893 2767, thebarnon62@gmail.com

 

Spier Hotel and Spa (Nearest town: Stellenbosch)

Spier Hotel and Spa is one of the more child-friendly accommodation options you will find on any South African wine farm.

Although we have not stayed there with our child, nor since the hotel and spa’s big revamp, I know from past experience that this establishment was hugely welcoming to little ones and had many tiny guests staying there during our visit in 2023.

More to the point, the hotel offers truly stunning accommodation for families with kids.

For parents, the spa is also a tempting option, especially as you can arrange babysitting services or leave the little ones to play at Spier’s Buzz Cafe.

To me, Spier is one of the best family-friendly estates in South Africa. We love Spier and always find the estate so welcoming to families.

We enjoyed a picnic and tasting with our then-three-month-old and it was a wonderful experience from start to finish.

• Camp cot or children’s bed available?

Yes, a camp cot is available on request.

• Interleading or family rooms?

The hotel has interleading king/twin rooms are available, as well as two exclusive-use three-bedroom private villas.

• Stroller-friendly property?

I can confirm this from personal experience. Spier Wine Farm has mostly flat or accessible paths.

• Child-changing facilities?

Again, I can confirm from our personal experience. The estate has changing facilities in their bathrooms.

• Outdoor play area or indoor play space?

Yes, Spier is hugely child-friendly. There is an outdoor play area available, as well as the incredible Elemental Play Garden.

For hotel guests, little ones enjoy complimentary access to the awesome Kids Buzz Club, developed by Play by Nature. (Play By Nature also has their own fun play cafes and workshops across Cape Town and Stellenbosch.)

• Kids’ club or babysitting service?

Yes, in recent times, the hotel has also introduced a thrilling, positively beautiful play club reserved exclusively for little hotel guests.

It’s called Buzz Club and is run by the highly esteemed, interactive Play By Nature team. Buzz Club is suited to kids ages 3-12.

It offers a bunch of fun activities and experiences, including collage-making, flower threading, bug spotting, charcoal drawing, leaf pressing and more. Parents can join or else, leave them under careful guidance.

Babysitting services at the hotel are available on request.

• Child-safe pool or swimming on-site?

Yes, there is a heated, child-friendly pool. Please ensure your child’s safety as there is no netting over it.

• Child-friendly eatery: with kids’ menu or high chair?

Yes, high chairs and kids’ menus are available. Little ones can even do juice tastings or enjoy picnics.

• • Kid-friendly activities on-site or nearby:

    

There are some great, child-friendly experiences at Spier.

Aside from the gorgeous grounds, which offer so much outdoor space to roam and play and the incredible Kids Buzz Club, there are family-friendly picnics (we love Spier’s picnics), the immersive Elemental Play Garden, garden mixologist tasting experience, self-harvest experiences that allow kids to see the estate’s runner ducks in the food garden, pram-friendly farm walks and for older kids, even fun segway tours! Younger kids can also enjoy segway mini rides though!

• Accommodation contact info:

+27 (021) 809 1100, reservations@spier.co.za

 

DK Villas: Harbour View (Nearest suburb: Hout Bay)

DK Villas’ Harbour View is a stunning three-bedroom, self-catering apartment situated centrally in Hout Bay.

With sweeping views of the nearby harbour, wild Atlantic Ocean and impressive Hout Bay mountains, including the famous Karbonkelberg and The Sentinel, this beautifully appointed self-catering apartment provides guests with a dreamy prime location in this charming coastal village.

But perhaps what is most staggering about this apartment is the luxury comforts (everything from stylish SMEG appliances to spacious, tranquil bedrooms) and lovely indoor porch that it boasts which elevate it to a truly luxurious stay.

It feels more like a professional, chic hotel stay, just with the space and privacy that the excellent, welcoming hosts, Johann and Petra, afford their guests.

From their detailed correspondence and helpful guides before arrival to their prompt check-in assistance and thoughtful touches, they are a breath of fresh air in an accommodation space where you can so often feel like a number rather than a honoured guest.

They really ensure a home-away-from-home stay. Although, quite honestly, my home is sadly never this tidy. Indeed, this is quite possibly the most impressively neat, spotless place we have ever stayed.

In fact, by all accounts, DK Villas’ delightful Hout Bay apartment remains one of our most memorable, seamless stays to date all round.

A Seamless, Soothing Stay in Hout Bay

From the wonder in our child’s eyes as the evening stars and lights rolled into the inky night sky (exquisitely viewed from the indoor porch and lounge) to the calm peacefulness I felt here that enabled me to sleep deeply for the first time in a long time, there is something truly unforgettable about Harbour View.

While we had fast WiFi and a massive TV (equipped with DStv), I scarcely had a need for any of the usual entertainment. Instead, I mostly found myself sipping quality tea as I paged through the apartment’s travel guides and books on South Africa and its beauty – or gazing wordlessly out the window at the distant harbour and mountains shrouded in grey fog.

Whether you are travelling with friends, as a couple or even as a family, this stylish apartment comfortably sleeps a maximum of six guests, including children.

Our toddler travelled with us and absolutely loved the apartment. Baba especially had fun roaming the indoor porch and lounge area, which enjoy stunning views of the ocean and below, the hub of activity that is Hout Bay’s Main Road.

As Hout Bay is an especially child-friendly place (with most restaurants and cafes warmly welcoming little ones) that has plenty of indoor- and outdoor-attractions nearby, it’s the perfect spot to explore as a family.

• Camp cot or children’s bed available?

Yes, upon request, a camp cot can be provided for your little one.

Older kids can comfortably sleep in the beds. There are three beds, one queen-sized bed in the main bedroom (with en-suite bathroom) and then two double beds.

• Interleading or family rooms?

As a spacious three-bedroom villa, the property is naturally suited to families. Aside from the master bedroom, there are two other lovely bedrooms, one near the front door of the apartment (overlooking the complex’s garden area) and another across from the semi-en-suite bathroom.

The bedroom layout caters perfectly to children or extended family members, as they offer both proximity and privacy in one.

• Stroller-friendly property?

There is a lift (children under 12 must be accompanied by adults at all times, especially in this small lift) or flights of stairs, as the apartment is on the second floor. But you can use a pram in the lift.

We didn’t need our pram in the apartment though, so we left it in the car, as the apartment offers two safe, designated underground parking bays.

• Child-changing facilities?

The apartment has two gorgeous bathrooms and plenty of space around the home to change little ones as needed.

Outdoor play area or indoor play space?

While the apartment itself is situated in a secure complex, Hout Bay is essentially one giant playground.

You are a short drive away from local beaches, the harbour and even some lovely parks.

• Kids’ club or babysitting service?

  No, this is not provided during your stay but, as mentioned, Hout Bay is exceptionally family-friendly, so most restaurants and shops welcome children without batting an eyelid.

• Child-safe pool or swimming on-site?

No, there is no on-site swimming pool.

• Child-friendly eatery: with kids’ menu or high chair?

The apartment itself does not have a high chair but we made do with baba eating on our lap in the indoor porch.

Otherwise, there are plenty of child-friendly spots nearby, including Hout Bay’s Clay Cafe, The Collective Cafe, The Deli Social (our top brunch pick) and more.

For extra food excursions, we loved the splendid Nostos (owned by Hout Bay legends, Spiro and Julie), The Sentinel Cafe (a great little spot near the beach), Ice Dream, which offers authentic Italian gelato and South Yeaster Bakery for baked goods.

• Kid-friendly activities on-site or nearby:

Hout Bay offers experiences for all ages. From picnics and family drives along Chapman’s Peak Drive (which was regrettably closed during our stay due to a rock fall) to harbour boat trips (including out to the well-loved Seal Island, formally known as Duiker Island) and day outings to fun at Clay Cafe, Earthworx or World of Birds, there is plenty to see and do, even with little ones, in Hout Bay.

The nearby Constantia Wine Route and Llandudno beach provide extra entertainment for outdoor adventurers.

• Good to know:

  DK Villas has two other gorgeous Hout Bay-based apartments in The Boardwalk and Riverview. However, only The Boardwalk can additionally accommodate families with kids.

• Accommodation contact info:

+27 (082) 822 4434, info@dkvillas.co.za

 

Val du Charron Wine and Leisure Estate (Nearest town: Wellington)

The gorgeous wine and leisure estate, Val du Charron, a proud member of Cape Country Routes, lies tucked away in the peaceful Bovlei Valley just outside Wellington.

It offers guests both four- and five-star luxury accommodation choices, swimming, wine tasting and cellar tours, MTB fun (via Wild Boar trails), child-friendly facilities (including a wonderful playground and splash pool, ideal for those scorching Wellington days) and two lovely on-site restaurants, Pizza Vista and The Grillroom.

Some of the most wonderful aspects about Val du Charron though are its rich Cape history (which dates back to 1699), excellent service across the board (especially from the Guest House and breakfast buffet team and Pizza Vista staff in our experience), wines and of course, the breath taking views of the spectacular Wellington mountains.

Indeed, the estate offers incredible scenery no matter where you are, especially as the accommodation and restaurants all overlook the mountains and farmlands beyond, either through balconies or patios.

We thoroughly enjoyed exploring the estate too during our cellar tour and farm walk, which allows you to see the olive groves and vineyards up close.

What’s more, Val du Charron can easily accommodate a great amount of guests, as the Guest House alone has 40 en-suite rooms.

A Tranquil Winelands Escape

I think one of the biggest drawcards for us though was the sense of peacefulness we felt and our desire to linger longer.

(It’s one of the first work trips for my blog wherein I have actually switched off and relaxed fully.)

Usually, I itch to explore the local region or pop out to see different sights and other eateries but with Val du Charron, we had everything we needed right there.

The quality service, the lovely food and drinks (from pizza and grilled meats to lavish buffet breakfasts, in-room coffee and teas and a wide selection of hot and cold beverages, including beautiful estate wines, cocktails and mocktails and milkshakes), the beautifully appointed, luxury accommodation and on-site facilities and amenities kept us present and content for almost our entire stay.

(We popped into Wellington once for a late Saturday afternoon adventure but mainly so my partner could see the town on his first proper visit to it.)

Other highlights from our trip was how welcoming staff were to us, especially with our busy toddler in tow, and how seamless and refreshing our stay really was.

Our King Room with Patio offered everything we needed from privacy and insanely comfortable King/Twin beds and speedy, stable Wi-Fi and DStv to a massive walk-in shower, a pool-fronting patio, safe, tea and coffee facilities and bar fridge, air conditioning and a daily cleaning service.

• Camp cot or children’s bed available?

Yes, upon request, a camp cot can be provided for your little one.

We stayed in a King room, with a patio that was near to the pool and lawn but because our child is young, we managed with the camp cot perfectly. Bedding was also provided.

For older kids, the Family Rooms have awesome bunk beds that look so much fun!

(We will definitely have to revisit once our child is older so we can try a Family Room.)

For technology-savvy kids or teens, the bunk beds also have charging points.

The Manor House is also child-friendly, as it sleeps four adults and two children.

• Interleading or family rooms?

Yes, the Guest House rooms are en-suite and child-friendly, especially the Family Rooms.

As a bonus, children ages 0-6 stay for free, while children ages 7-12 only pay 50% of the sharing rate.

• Stroller-friendly property?

There are some stair cases but generally, the facilities are accessible via ramps or lifts, including The Grillroom, which is adjoined to the reception and Guest House building.

• Child-changing facilities?

Personally, we found it easiest to just change our little one in our comfortable room.

Outdoor play area or indoor play space?

There is a wonderful, scenic playground and splash pool on-site, near Pizza Vista.

• Kids’ club or babysitting service?

  No, this service is not provided during your stay.

  Please watch your children, especially around the pools.

• Child-safe pool or swimming on-site?

There is an on-site pool for the Guest House, as well as for the Manor House (only for private guests staying there, naturally).

However, these are not gated or covered, so please ensure you keep an eye on your children at all times.

• Child-friendly eatery: with kids’ menu or high chair?

Val du Charron has two on-site restaurants in Pizza Vista and The Grillroom. Happily, both are quite child-friendly.

We found both restaurants could kindly accommodate us with adjusted meals for our little one.

Pizza Vista has a decent kids’ menu, while The Grillroom is a bit more limited but it will serve older kids well.

Both eateries have a single high chair per restaurant.

Staff were wonderful and welcoming with our child at both eateries.

We also found the Guest House breakfast buffet to be great for children with fresh fruit, full cream yoghurt and flapjacks. The breakfast buffet is great for young and old!

• Kid-friendly activities on-site or nearby:

Pizza Vista has a wonderful play ground, jungle gym and splash pool (available during summertime) that is ideal for little ones.

Older kids can enjoy walks around the estate or navigating the MTB trails with their parents, as the estate offers easy access to the Wild Boar trails.

Beyond that, Wellington offers its own child-friendly activities.

To name a few, these include the Wellington historical walk, museum, local horse rides, Bontebok Ridge Reserve, Bainskloof Pass, Welvanpas and Tweede Tol, which offers hikes and rock pools. (As a child, we did a school trip there and it remains one of my favourite outdoor memories. The pools and streams are gorgeous.)

Just a note: Bainskloof is sometimes closed due to road works or rock falls.

• Good to know:

I am so excited to share an exclusive Tamlyn Amber Wanderlust and Val du Charron discount code for your next getaway to this beautiful Wellington estate.

By using my 2026 discount code, TAWVDC, you can get up to 45% off your accommodation, depending on when you book your stay.

Please note: 

• This code is only valid from May 2026 until 31 August 2026.
• The discount is only valid for direct VdC website bookings.

• May 2026 bookings: Get an additional 25% off.

• June – August 2026 bookings: Get an additional 20% off.

How to Apply Your Discount:

1) Head over to the official Val du Charron website's accommodation page.

2) At the top of the subsequent booking page, click on "Do you have a promo code?" link.

3) Enter my code "TAWVDC" into the text box and click the Apply button.

4) Your discount will then apply to your booking. :)

• Accommodation contact info:

+27 (021) 873 1256, stay@vdcwines.com

 

 

 

Sugarbird Manor, Devon Valley (Nearest town: Stellenbosch)

Nestled on a 21.6-hectare working protea farm called Protea Heights in the verdant Devon Valley, Sugarbird Manor is a peaceful Stellenbosch Winelands escape for travellers, couples or families seeking quiet luxury, relaxing country spaces and gorgeous valley views only a short drive from Stellenbosch itself.

With panoramic views stretching across vineyards and the valley to the Simonsberg, Stellenbosch and Helderberg mountains, Somerset West and even False Bay, Sugarbird Manor is a relaxing base for solo travellers, couples or families with kids to enjoy a charming countryside getaway.

A Luxurious Winelands Retreat in Devon Valley

On-site, this luxury, 4-star guesthouse offers lush, expansive gardens, a cosy breakfast room and two stunning courtyard spaces (one near the main pool and another behind the breakfast room, enclosed in a dreamy garden space with outdoor seating, flowers and tranquillity aplenty).

For wine lovers, the farm is also home to Botanica Wines, their very own wine (with Arboretum, Big Flower and Flowergirl ranges respectively). It pays homage to the farm’s beauty, proteas and the history of Protea Heights, which has been running as South Africa’s first commercially cultivated protea farm since the 1940s.

Please note: We enjoyed a one-night stay and take-home wine box after I was fortunate enough to win their Instagram competition in 2025. However, all views and opinions remain my own.

• Camp cot or children’s bed available?

Yes, camp cots can be provided upon request for little ones.

For families travelling with older kids or larger family groups, they also offer family options, like the Courtyard Double Queen Room.

• Interleading or family rooms?

We stayed in one of the cottages a short walk/drive from the main guesthouse, which was perfect for us.

The cottages are fully furnished with self-catering facilities, TV and Wi-Fi, a open-plan kitchen and lounge area, a private front patio and even a garden seating area behind the cottage. So you enjoy both space and seclusion.

• Stroller-friendly property?

Generally manageable around the main guest house and cottage patios but because it’s a working protea farm with garden slopes and dirt hiking trails, an all-terrain pram or baby carrier is definitely best if you’re exploring the broader farm grounds.

• Child-changing facilities?

No dedicated public changing stations. But having our own cottage made changing baba super easy and convenient.

• Outdoor play area or indoor play space?

While there isn’t a traditional playground or jungle gym on site, the farm itself offers endless space to explore. Kids will love the gardens, lawn spaces and the three gentle hiking trails starting right from the property.

• Kids’ club or babysitting service?

No, there are no child-minders or babysitting services available here. Please keep a close eye on the little ones yourself.

• Child-safe pool or swimming on-site?

There are also two pools on-site – the infinity pool near the main guesthouse and another garden pool, near the cottages, which we had easy access to.

However, parents need to be extra vigilant, as neither pool is fenced off, nor fitted with a safety net.

• Child-friendly eatery: with kids’ menu or high chair?

Breakfast is served daily either in the breakfast room, outdoor courtyard or garden space.

During our stay, they did have a baby seat available on-site, though the straps were unfortunately broken.

For lunch and dinner, you can head out into Devon Valley or central Stellenbosch, where family-friendly wine estates and eateries await just a short drive away. Otherwise, the guesthouse has coffee- and tea-facilities and snacks available on an ‘honesty bar’/trust basis that you settle at checkout.

During our stay, we enjoyed light lunches at both Cake Canteen and Bonne Esperance and found both lovely!

You can also order-in using UberEats or MrD. Please just confirm the details with reception before using this method.

• Kid-friendly activities on-site or nearby?

On the farm, you can enjoy scenic walks along three trails, exploring the beautiful gardens, birdwatching or relaxing by the pools.

Nearby in Stellenbosch, families are spoilt for choice with several golf courses and amazing wine estates (featuring play parks, family picnics, outdoor experiences and so much more) in the immediate area.

• Accommodation contact info:

+27 (079) 124 2124, reservations@sugarbirdmanor.co.za

 

Other Child-friendly Western Cape Accommodation I Like:

• Thali Thali Game Lodge (read my accommodation review here)

• Windtown Lagoon Hotel (read my accommodation review here)

• !Khwa ttu (read my accommodation review here)

• Boschendal Wine Farm

• Cape Grace Hotel

• Airbnb: The Cove Beach House

 

Child-friendly Wine Farms and Restaurants near Cape Town:

I plan to keep adding to this list. 🙂 But I also have a great post on some child-friendly wine farms and restaurants near Cape Town. You can read it here.

 

My Best Child-friendly Accommodation in the Northern Cape

Exactly twenty years ago, I first visited Sutherland and the Northern Cape province as a tween and fell in love.

To me, it was a place of remote, seemingly barren lands (how little I knew then); bone-chilling temperatures and penetrating cold even in November; and some of the most incredible starlit skies I ever hoped to see.

I previously had such a memorable first experience visiting Sutherland that I was very excited to introduce my own little family to this part of the country.

And, while it meant enduring some long hours on the road (averaging 4-5 hours per trip, including brief stops, with a restless toddler), it was so worth it.

Before my return visit, there were two things that were unforgettable about Sutherland: the cold and the stars. And now, after this, I can gladly add a third to my list: Rogge Cloof.

Rogge Cloof Private Nature Reserve (Nearest town: Sutherland)

Our destination was the exciting Rogge Cloof, a special member of Cape Country Routes and a beautiful Karoo guest farm and incredible, high-altitude private nature reserve near Sutherland.

We knew to expect remoteness at this Northern Cape reserve in the heart of the ageless, tranquil Karoo but what we didn’t know was how wonderful and refreshing that remoteness, and its subsequent silence, would feel, even with a young child in tow.

I would just advise having all the medicine, toys and snacks you need, especially if travelling with younger kids. The closest town is Sutherland and it’s pretty limited and very remote.

But it was Rogge Cloof that made me half-want to swap the city for a simpler Karoo life – with its incredible, kind people; wild, vast spaces as far as the eye can see; amazing game- and bird-life and, perhaps above all, it’s exquisite, professional service, accommodation and food, all of which was so thoughtfully adjusted to include our little one’s needs. (Even the food our toddler enjoyed was plated so beautifully and with such attention to detail.)

• Camp cot or children’s bed available?

Yes, a spotlessly clean, lovely camp cot and breathable sheet was provided for our toddler.

• Interleading or family rooms?

There is family-friendly accommodation, including our gorgeous cottage, Wolskuur, which sleeps four (two adults, two children). There are two daybeds and a comfortable king-sized bed. For smaller children, there is ample cot space.

Alternatively, Rogge Cloof offers other additional family-friendly accommodation on their property, including all of their self-catering options and even their inclusive Orion Suites.

What’s more, the accommodation offers beautifully appointed spaces that are spacious and stress-free for parents with children.

Tip: For larger families or friends’ groups travelling together, book a cottage or suite nearby to loved ones.

• Stroller-friendly property?

Yes, we used our pram, especially going in and out of the Rittersaal Dining Hall and main reception building.

The terrain near the Eco Village (where the main reception, facilities and accommodation, excluding the Adventure Centre, are situated) is typical of the more rocky, rugged Karoo ground but it’s perfectly manageable. (There are a few small steps at reception’s main entrance though.)

I wouldn’t recommend using a pram for general excursions unless you have a proper off-road/all-terrain stroller.

• Child-changing facilities?

We just changed nappies in our cottage or car.

• Outdoor play area or indoor play space?

There are no dedicated play areas but the recreational area near Rittersaal is lovely. It offers comfy chairs, countless books, a toddler-friendly wooden chair and tables and sunny, sheltered spots overlooking the boma and vineyards.

It’s perfect, even on the chilliest afternoon, to enjoy as a family.

Beyond that, almost all of Rogge Cloof’s activities are family-friendly. Within reason, of course.

For example, you probably won’t be able to take your toddler on a 4- to 5-hour-long hike (if you try, you’re certainly a braver person than I am…) but they can join for the adorable Saturday morning springbok feeding.

• Kids’ club or babysitting service?

No, there are no babysitting services available here.

You are therefore entirely responsible for your child(ren) and their safety at all times.

• Child-safe pool or swimming on-site?

Yes, Rogge Cloof has a lovely farm-style swimming pool, known as the Poplar Tree Pool (near Rittersaal). It’s ideal for cooling off in the warmer months.

For Oryx House guests, there is also exclusive access to a separate, farm-style pool.

Please note: Neither pool is covered but the main Poplar Tree Pool is closed off by a secure gate and encircling wall.

• Child-friendly eatery: with kids’ menu or high chair?

Rittersaal Dining Hall offers set menus, meal times and food options, which must normally be reserved the day before.

However, they do have some kids’ meals available, particularly as their Light Meal options.

There are no high chairs available. We just used our pram or held baba on our laps and that worked fine.

For little ones who are weaning, maybe bring your own solids or request something like baby-safe fruit or rice and seasonal vegetables (which you can easily cut up or leave unseasoned) from the kitchen.

Our toddler thoroughly enjoyed the food and drinks on-offer. It hardly required us to customise according to toddler-friendly needs.

In fact, this was probably one of our more child-friendly dining experiences, despite their being no dedicated children’s menu per se.

We also found staff really go the extra mile, even for the littles, which truly made an impression on us as parents.

• Kid-friendly activities on-site or nearby?

There are a number of on-site child-friendly experiences.

These include: nature drives, game viewing from your accommodation or the surrounds, feeding the springbokkies (Saturday mornings only but entirely free to enjoy), self-guided or guided hikes (of varying lengths), stargazing and astrophotography (fun for tweens, teens and the young at heart), cycling, cheetah tracking (not for children under 16 or persons under 1.5 metres in height) and even fossil field drives.

Children will also enjoy the books and seating area at the recreational room (adjoining the Rittersaal Dining Hall).

There are also farm dogs, chickens and ducks to pique their interest. Not to mention a wealth of bird- and game-life, including wildebeest, eland, grey rhebok, zebra, springbok and fallow deer etc.

As such, Rogge Cloof offers activities to suit families with small kids, as well as tweens and teens with a true sense of adventure!

If you want to explore the local area as a family, Sutherland offers the Sutherland Planetarium (they do stargazing tours and educational 3D shows) and the Southern African Large Telescope (an amazing outing; we did it in high school after it first opened. Booking your tour in advance is highly recommended.) and fun activities like historical/church tours, seasonal wild flower spotting, local stargazing, winter snow fun (during the cold months if you hit lucky) and more!

• Accommodation contact info:

+27 (023) 004 1161 | WhatsApp line (Lodge contact): +27 (083) 277 8298 | info@roggecloof.com

 

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