Unearthing your tent, bundling it into the car (along with cooking utensils but without a hair dryer, boo) and then attempting to put it up on the other side an unattractive prospect? We kind of agree, which is why glamping holds appeal. While it may have girly undertones, you can still pull off your manly braaiing skills at AfriCamps’ new location at Pat Busch Mountain Reserve just outside Robertson. Owner Manou Bleumink gives us the details…
How did AfriCamps come about?
We were inspired by the international glamping trend – that is, glamourous camping. We believe that the best travel experiences are often those where you get close to the landscape, people and food of the places you visit. That’s why we have set up our boutique tented camps in partnership with working farms and estates in the country. You can experience local life, taste farm cuisine, witness how local produce is made and learn about typical South African landscapes, animals, plants and vegetation.
Why is glamping is popular in South Africa?
Glamping is the best of three worlds:
- Guests have the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive holiday.
- It offers the closeness to nature a camping trip.
- But it also includes luxury and convenience.
Why Pat Busch Mountain Reserve in particular?
The reserve is absolutely one of highlights of the area: 2 000ha of spectacular mountain fynbos with streams, mountain dams, birdlife and animals such as buck, fallow deer and Nguni cows (and even one shy leopard). The reserve is also home to a rare protea flower that was thought extinct for almost 50 years and is now under protection of CapeNature.
What can guests do for fun on the reserve?
Swimming, mountain biking, fishing – literally everything from hiking to hammocking, seclusion to merry chaos.
How does the reserve form part of the Klaasvoogds Meander?
The Klaasvoogds Meander, one of the best secrets of the Robertson Wine Valley, includes boutique wineries, a lavender distillery, a cactus garden and succulent nursery, a wellness centre and spa, and several fantastic eateries. It should definitely be part of every Route 62 travel itinerary.
Snap, share and win
Every month, AfriCamps picks the best guest photo, video, review or blog, and gives away a free night at one of their locations. If you’re planning a stay at one of their three locations (this one outside Robertson, Swellendam and Oudtshoorn), visit their website here for more info.
Africamps
+27 (0)63 170 4222
hello@africamps.com
Interview: Kirsty Wilkins
Images: Supplied
