Swartkop Cottage

Peaceful and cozy, easy access to the river for fishing

The cottage was exactly what we were looking for. A remote place all alone and in touch with nature yet meets all your basic requirements. Very neat and clean with a unique personal touch. Our stay was nothing short of magical with breathtaking views of the Tugela River. We loved everything about this place. I'm definitely going to be a regular visitor.

Absolutely NOTHING!!

This is quite possibly the most beautiful place in which I have stayed. It is isolated, secluded, right on the river and has the potential to be amazing. I didn't mind that there was no electricity. The solar lights, gas fridge, and gas stove were great. Even the outside geyser to heat up the water was fine. Sitting on the deck overlooking the river was just amazing, and we spent most of our time there. We were even lucky enough to see an otter swimming down the river. There is also a path going down to the river, and we were able to have a refreshing swim to cool us off on the hot days. However, the place was very dusty/dirty. The beds were lumpy, uneven, and extremely uncomfortable. The most shocking thing of all, though, was the outside toilet and showers. The outside toilet was FILTHY... absolutley filthy... the toilet and floor were covered in what looked like bird/reptile droppings, but worst of all, there was a USED TAMPON lying on the floor. The outside showers were also filthy. I guess they hadn't been cleaned (or even looked at) in months. Luckily, there were only two of us staying there, so the inside toilet was enough for us. But, the cottage sleeps 6 people, and if it were full, the outside toilet and showers would've been needed. I have never been more disgusted by what i saw in that toilet... Such a pity, because, as I said before, it is the most beautiful location, and it could be perfect if they just gave the whole place a good clean and replaced the beds.

Beautiful location

Fridge could be cooler0

Very spacious and the sounds of the water gushing past is amazing.

After rain the road there is very muddy and wet. A 4x4 is a must. The signage is so easy to miss that we unnecessarily drove through very muddy and dangerous terrain. The directions given did not include the actual distances. They said to call if we had any trouble enroute or if there are any snakes but the place and area has no reception so you're actually on your own. Do not expect there to be any tea, coffee, sugar or any of the other small things one would expect at cottages. They leave wood for you which is stored outside, it rained so the wood we needed to use was wet. Lastly make sure to not forget anything, we left our GoPro behind and when we got there the cleaner told us she didn't see it but then when we wouldn't leave or stop looking she had found it in a place we never even opened.

The place was exactly as described and more when we experienced it. The deck, riverbank, sounds of birds and just ample space was just great for the kids.

Nothing.

Peaceful and quiet with wonderful views of the river and mountain. It was wonderful to be disconnected from civilization to recharge. Everything worked and the donkey "geyser" was brilliant. Reminded me of my grandparents farm.

Beautiful remote location, comfy beds, stunning view of the river and the mountains. Fun experience to light the donkey boiler, the teenagers loved it! No reception and no electricity... perfect place to unwind.

Nothing