Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway

We had a great three nights at campsite 7, with lovely views, a refreshing river, and a tasty restaurant meal. The facilities were rustic but adequate. A few small things could be improved: the slab could have been swept before we arrived, and the braai coals cleared each day. The stairs and handrail leading to the ablutions also need attention. Even so, we enjoyed our stay.

Campsite 11 was so peaceful and tucked away from the other sites that we never saw or heard anyone. We spent all three nights in late March sleeping on stretcher beds beneath the open metal awning, and never needed to open our rooftop tent. The cement floor, green lawn, and two shady trees made it a lovely spot, with the stream and magnificent mountain just ahead. There’s a raised half drum for braaiing and a circular cement fire pit, too. The private ablutions have two toilets, two showers, two hand basins, and a double sink for dishes. The gas hot water worked well, and having electricity was a bonus. We heard baboons barking in the distance and enjoyed the birdlife. Little birds came within a foot of us, quite unworried, and liked the crumbs we gave them. This was five-star camping for us, an idyllic break, and we’ll be back several times.

We stayed in a fantastic, well-equipped podhouse with brilliant mountain views, joining family who were camping at one of the sites. The site layout is impressive, with good space between pitches, and management keeps the grounds in excellent condition. The upkeep really stood out.

Oom Ed lodge is in a beautiful setting and is lovely, but it needs better upkeep. One bedside lamp looked like it dated from the 1970s and gave me an electric shock. I reported it to reception, and they were understandably apologetic. I hope they’ve acted on it and improved maintenance. Despite that, we had a lovely stay and might return, though the shock has left me a little jaded. No superpowers so far 😉