Karoo Ridge Conservancy

Nestled in a tranquil valley and Karoo Ridge Mountain Lodge is set in the foothills of the mountains, Karoo Ridge Conservancy is a working farm that restores and protects its natural environment and also offers an exclusive holiday retreat in the form of traditional Karoo-style eco-lodges. Inspired by the Karoo, brick and cut stone were used to build two eco-lodges that sit in harmony with their surroundings; Karoo Ridge River Lodge and Karoo Ridge Mountain Lodge. Both lodges have their own unique position and charm. Perfect for family and friend getaways, romantic escapes, or for anyone looking for a few days of peace and tranquillity where you can choose how relaxed or active you would like your day to be. Karoo Ridge River Lodge is set in a scenic, secluded valley above the Brak River and is perfect for large families, families with small children, or groups of friends travelling together. The cabin is powered by solar and gas, and offers 4 bedrooms furnished king-size, which can convert to twin beds, or twin beds. Two of the rooms have en-suite bathrooms, and the other 2 share the use of a bathroom which is fitted with baths and showers. The spacious living area offers an open-plan kitchen that is fully equipped with a gas stove and fridge, a dining area, and a cosy lounge area with a fireplace that opens onto a large verandah. Outdoor braai facilities and the boma is ideal for sitting around in the evenings and enjoying the star-studded skies. Karoo Ridge River Lodge has an inviting swimming pool, sun loungers, a children’s toy box, a sandpit, and a trampoline. A high chair, travel cot and children’s cutlery and crockery are also available. Well-behaved pets are welcome with prior arrangements. Karoo Ridge Mountain Lodge is located in the foothills of the mountains overlooking a dam, backdropped with endless karoo vistas. It is perfect for couples wanting to get away or small families with older children. Both luxurious and homely, the 2 bedrooms are furnished with twin beds that can convert to king-size beds, and have en-suite bathrooms with baths and showers. Powered by solar and gas, the open-plan kitchen is equipped with a gas stove and oven, as well as a fridge. The lounge offers comfortable seating and a cosy fireplace, opening onto a verandah with outdoor seating and a dining area, overlooking the inviting plunge pool. A boma area and a Weber braai are available for guests to use. Karoo Ridge Conservancy’s accommodation is Wi-Fi and mobile-free area however, free Wi-Fi is available at the reception at any time and is 1 km from Karoo Ridge River Lodge and Karoo Ridge Mountain Lodge. All the accommodation is serviced daily and guests have the choice of booking self-catering or having a fully catered experience. A safety net is available on request for the plunge pools. There are self-guided trails from the lodge and seasonal deep pools along the river to swim in, or take the opportunity to go on a guided excursion out into the Karoo veld. Bird life is abundant in the riverine vegetation and the valley is frequented by Kudu and Mountain reedbuck. Gemsbuck and Springbuck frequent the area and will happily come and drink from the water hole out front. Take a walk to the remarkable dolerite rock stacks or wander further into the foothills. Guests can visit the small shop which sells a variety of interesting artwork, gifts and homewares from local artists and craftspeople, home-cooked, readily prepared meals and local lamb on request. Game meat, boerewors, droëwors and mince, with other cuts sometimes available on request.

Area Info

Karoo Ridge Conservancy is located on 5 000-hectare in the Upper Karoo against the slopes of the Stormberg Mountain range in central South Africa. The vast area well known for its sheep farming, Karoo Ridge Conservancy runs Nguni cattle alongside wildlife. The closest towns are Middelburg and Steynsburg, Eastern Cape.