Palala River Cottages

Location: Melkrivier, Vaalwater, za

Star Rating: 9.1 Stars

Property Type: Apartments

About this Property

Important Information

Policies

Check-in: 02:00 PM - 06:00 PM

Check-out: 11:00 AM

Amenities & Facilities

• Offsite parking discounted rates available
• Parking
• Non-smoking rooms
• Terrace
• Non-smoking throughout
• Free wired internet
• Self parking (surcharge)
• Offsite parking discounted rates available
• Internet access
• Japanese garden

Rooms Available

• One-Bedroom Bungalow

  This bungalow has a stovetop, tile/marble floor and seating area. No signal and no WiFi No swimming pool Indoor bathroom with shower only Outdoor shower

  Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)

  • Shower
  • Kitchenette
  • Refrigerator
  • Seating Area
  • Fan
  • Toilet
  • Microwave
  • Private bathroom
  • Heating
  • Private entrance
  • Tile/marble floor
  • Mosquito net
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Barbecue
  • Cleaning products
  • Terrace
  • Linen
  • Dining table
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Entire unit located on ground floor
  • Clothes rack
  • Toilet paper
  • Trash cans
  • Wine glasses
  • Shampoo
  • Body soap
  • Shower cap
  • Adapter
  • Smoke alarm
  • Fire extinguisher

• Five-Bedroom House

  This holiday home's special features are the private pool and the fireplace. Featuring a private entrance, this spacious holiday home also consists of 5 bedrooms, a seating area and 3 bathrooms with a bath and a shower. Guests will find a stovetop, a refrigerator, a dishwasher and kitchenware in the kitchen. The holiday home also provides guests with a barbecue. The holiday home features a terrace with outdoor furniture and garden views for your convenience. The unit offers 7 beds.

  Max Occupancy: 10 (10 Adults)

  • Shower
  • Refrigerator
  • Seating Area
  • Fan
  • Toilet
  • Microwave
  • Dishwasher
  • Private bathroom
  • Shared toilet
  • Kitchen
  • Fireplace
  • Additional toilet
  • Private entrance
  • Sofa
  • Tile/marble floor
  • Dining area
  • Private pool
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Oven
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Barbecue
  • Cleaning products
  • Terrace
  • Linen
  • Dining table
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Entire unit located on ground floor
  • Clothes rack
  • Toilet paper
  • Plunge pool
  • Trash cans
  • Wine glasses
  • Shampoo
  • Body soap
  • Shower cap
  • Adapter
  • Mobile hotspot device
  • Smoke alarm
  • Fire extinguisher

• Deluxe Bungalow

  This bungalow features a fireplace, sofa and barbecue. No Cell-phone Signal and No Wifi No swimming pool Outdoor shower Indoor bathroom with bath/shower combo

  Max Occupancy: 2 (2 Adults)

  • Shower
  • Refrigerator
  • Seating Area
  • Fan
  • Toilet
  • Microwave
  • Private bathroom
  • Kitchen
  • Fireplace
  • Private entrance
  • Sofa
  • Tile/marble floor
  • Dining area
  • Mosquito net
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Oven
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Barbecue
  • Cleaning products
  • Coffee machine
  • Terrace
  • Linen
  • Dining table
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Entire unit located on ground floor
  • Clothes rack
  • Toilet paper
  • Trash cans
  • Wine glasses
  • Shampoo
  • Body soap
  • Shower cap
  • Adapter
  • Smoke alarm
  • Fire extinguisher

• Three-Bedroom Bungalow

  This bungalow features a toaster, kitchenware and view. Signal & free WiFi Swimming Pool with pool loungers, umbrella and towels

  Max Occupancy: 6 (6 Adults)

  • Shower
  • Refrigerator
  • Seating Area
  • Fan
  • Toilet
  • Microwave
  • Private bathroom
  • Kitchen
  • Fireplace
  • Private entrance
  • Sofa
  • Hardwood or parquet floors
  • Dining area
  • Mosquito net
  • Private pool
  • Wardrobe or closet
  • Oven
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster
  • Barbecue
  • Cleaning products
  • Coffee machine
  • Terrace
  • Linen
  • Dining table
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Clothes rack
  • Toilet paper
  • Plunge pool
  • Pool towels
  • Trash cans
  • Wine glasses
  • Shampoo
  • Body soap
  • Shower cap
  • Adapter
  • Mobile hotspot device
  • Smoke alarm
  • Fire extinguisher

Guest Reviews

• Hannelie (10/5): -
• Connie (10/5): -
• Johanna (9/5): - I loved the exclusivity/privacy of the cabin. Liked the provided braai facility.
• Lorenza (5/5): disappointed - The add on bookings.com and where we end up did not correspond. The pictures that is on add is for the river cottage and we ended up in a bush camp. Also my special request was not met at all. The poor platter we receive was not to standard and NOT worth the money paid for it. Also the champagne was BRUT not something everyone drinks. The R200 bottle of champagne was not used. Some cutlery were dirty and the knives so flimsy it bended when cutting with it. The 2 staff members was nice and polite. To be honest I have stayed at much better places for less.
• Faber (10/5): - Our stay at Podica River Cottages was truly unforgettable. The rondawel was immaculate—spotlessly clean, comfortable, and beautifully maintained. The owners went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. Their kindness really stood out, especially when they surprised us with Easter eggs and warm wishes for a blessed Easter. It’s those thoughtful touches that make a place feel special. The camp is surrounded by incredible wildlife. We were lucky enough to see zebras, giraffes, blue wildebeest, kudus, duikers, springbok, and more. Being so close to nature in such an unspoiled environment felt like a rare privilege. This is truly a piece of untouched nature—a little slice of heaven on earth. Absolutely worth visiting, and we can’t wait to return.
• Oost (10/5): Perfect! - Our initial reservation was no longer available, due to unforeseen weather. We were offered something else. We were pleasantly surprised. In retrospect I think this replcement, exceeded the expectations whe have of initial location. The host was very friendly and accomadating. They were in constant contact with us beforehand and also met us halfway to take us to the place. It is a beautifull isolated place in nature with wonderfull views and silence if you need to reload. Not even one thing to complain about.
• Mmaboroa (7/5): - They don't change Linen everyday
• Sibongile (10/5): - Everything Curtains need a light blocking
• edwin (9/5): -
• Dirk (5/5): Not pleasant stay, very far to travel to excursions. Very excluded from human interaction. - Space was good Setting was ok Sound of river and bird tranquil No self drive markings as advised, this was not a good experience to try do a game drive. The Pest control inside unit needs to be more consistent. The weather caused leaks into pantry kitchen making the unit very damp and odour was noticeable. Bathroom needs a door to not disturb your partner if they resting, braai area needed daily attention and remained wet and damp, river view very limited. Excursions and restaurants not available and to far to travel. Mobile signal is a problem as nothing to research or even a basic tv channel to watch while not being able to go outside. Seating outside not comfortable.
• Muchemenye (10/5): -
• Junaide (10/5): -
• Muchemenye (10/5): -
• Boloka (10/5): - The quietness Nothing
• Kerry (10/5): Gem in the bushveld - Peace and quiet. Beautiful location. Situated on a lovely river. No bathroom door
• Ronel (9/5): Superb -
• Kruger (8/5): Very good -
• Jessica (9/5): Superb -
• Sibusiso (10/5): Exceptional - The tranquility and peace No network was welcomed Nothing
• Shani (10/5): Quiet, relaxing, peaceful bush stay. - The remote location, beautiful African bush surrounding it, comfortable cottage and great hosts. Perfect for a peaceful, quiet getaway and getting in touch with nature.
• Thindisa (8/5): Amazing Bush Stay - The location is refreshing and offers amazing views. The staff was super friendly and generous as well. There is limited network coverage, but it was nice for me to be fully disconnected and unwind
• Sophie (9/5): Superb - We really enjoyed our stay and hope to be back. Great house in the bush to relax!
• Simphiwe (9/5): Superb -
• Johann (10/5): Exceptional -
• Wethu (7/5): Good -
• Ronel (10/5): Exceptional -
• Abhinav (8/5): Samia cabin were we stayed is nice, quiet and very private. - Cabin was furnished nicely. Linens and Towels were nice & clean to the level of any luxury accommodation. There are lot of trails and map was provided, however those are not marked. Also, in our case as we did late booking , we couldn't book any activities as staff was already engaged.
• Goabaone (10/5): Exceptional - The team were so helpful with accessing the facility even in the middle of the night
• Yulanda (9/5): Superb - It is very quiet and peaceful. A real gem. Everything we needed was in the cottage. Andre and Lorraine made us feel very welcome. We will definitely visit again.
• Theron (9/5): Superb - Spent two evenings at the Cottage for our wedding anniversary. The view, nature sounds and simplicity was fantastic. The outdoor shower is fantastic. Will definitely visit again.
• Robert (8/5): Very good -
• Justin (10/5): We came to Vaalwater to do an event and we found this gem. We will be back soon! It’s incredible - Loraine was so helpful and we settled in so nicely. We stayed in Magari and it is honestly one of the most incredible accommodation venues I’ve stayed in South Africa. There was not 1 thing that we didn’t like. Everything was impeccable.
• Manku (7/5): Good -
• Madira (10/5): We had amazing weekend away - Game drive part Nothing
• Seafoodlover (8/5): Bushbreak at this place is surreal - The outside shower, self game drive , the river everything about this place screams out in the wild... Nothing to falter
• Tanja (9/5): I thoroughly enjoyed my stay - Great location, the outdoor shower was amazing. The staff were so friendly and very helpful.
• Alan (9/5): Superb - A great bush house. Plenty of space inside and out. Wonderful ambiance all around and enhanced with dining outside and the fire pit. Delicious home cooked meals available to order was a big plus as well. House can get a bit warm.
• Mrs (6/5): Average - We liked the peace and tranquility. Lovely being so close to tge River. Outdoor shower was amazing. We saw alot of animals. Game drive and guide was exceptional. We stayed a whole week. Pod we stayed in needs to be updated. Mattress was horrible Toaster had a short. Need 1 or 2 more microwaveable dishes. Need some storage space to pack groceries, had to rearrange cupboard with crockery and majority of goods stood on counter with limited counter space to work on. Cleaning equipment eg. Broom and mop needs to be replaced. I think you are more focused on your high end paying clientele and chalets than the lower.
• Richard (8/5): Beautiful and secluded stay very near to the Palala River. Wonderful spot to escape city life! -
• John (10/5): Easy distance from Jhb, wonderful reserve, very private, outstanding hosts. - Location superb, easy distance (300km) from Johannesburg. Situated in a private reserve with the most wonderful bush and trees. The reserve hosts (which included Manager Lorraine, Marinette and Clayton) went more than beyond the extra mile to ensure our needs were met and questions answered. We could find nothing to not like at this venue.
• Wheater (7/5): OK, peaceful and beautiful environment. - The bird hide was amazing. The outdoor shower was excellent, lovely hot water. The camp facilities were very basic. The Rondaval needs a little TLC, it all works but is very old. The activities listed were not available, eg. Night Drive, guided walks etc. From number 3 you can not see the river, it needs to be opened up a bit. Clear some of the bush. Number 1 & 2 have better access to the river.
• Ineeleng (9/5): Our stay was amazing - The peace and quiet was much needed and just being out in the wild was breathtaking
• Anita (6/5): Pleasant -
• Simone (8/5): Enjoyable - Dishwasher leaked Shower leaked all over bathroom floor
• Bongane (10/5): Palala - The quiet surroundings Helpful when we got lost they came to fetch us No television
• Mieke (8/5): Very good -
• Marion (8/5): Very good -
• Magdel (6/5): Pleasant - Beautiful house, in a great location. No phone signal so cannot contact the office. Braai grid and facilities in very bad condition. Some of the kitchen equipment were dirty and not cleaned properly.
• Ruth (10/5): Exceptional -
• Kay (5/5): Passable -
• Roy (8/5): excellent weekend or short break getaway. Good fauna and Flora to enjoy. wetlands area is a treat. Fireplace boma at Sam - great bush environment bit remote
• Normanna (10/5): .We recommend Palala River Cottages for a remote but comfortable stay in the bush. - 1. The location was ideal for our wishes: we wanted to be on a large game property (NOT including the Big 5!) with access by normal 2WD car, where we could walk safely in the bush with our friends to our heart's content. 2. Our Riverside Cottage had 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, with an equipped kitchen and inside and shady outside dining areas as well as comfortable inside and outside seating areas. There were two more bedrooms in the garden with en-suite bathrooms -all this was perfect and comfortable for the size of our group. 3. We were initially a little disappointed that some dedicated walking paths had not yet been cleared post-Covid. This disappointment disappeared when we discovered how many quiet 4x4 tracks there were on the property -these paths were ideal for walking and we met almost no vehicles on them. 4. The facility to pre-order cooked meals from the property's kitchen was ideal for the days on which we didn't want to cook. The food was good value for money and tasty, with generous portions. 5. We had a celebration while we were there. The staff went to great lengths to put together an exceptional meal for our group and served this in a spectacular location! Obviously we paid extra for this special meal. 6. We were provided with a walkie-talkie connection to the main office. Staff was available and most helpful when we called. 7. The extra-cost activities (a tree identification walk and a game drive in our case) were good value and expertly carried out. 8..We were very happy with our stay and would recommend Palala River Cottages to all who wish to enjoy a comfortable, remote retreat at good value for money. Nothing worth mentioning....
• Sigrid (9/5): we had a fantastic stay! such great service and great location! we will be back -
• Tsheege (10/5): Exceptional -
• Melissa (10/5): Exceptional -
• David (10/5): Beautifully secluded cottage by the river. - We loved the location of our cottage right by the river. Marienet and Ed took great care of us. We highly recommend doing a guided walk with Ed as we learned so much from him about the flora and fauna. Nothing it was a perfect stay. Just make sure you get directions as the location of the River Cottage is different to the Palala River Cottages.

Photos