Sometimes one needs to take a break to escape the rat race. It is in times like these that jewels like the Hooikraal Tented Camp are the perfect escape.
You simply pack your clothes and supplies, whatever you preference might be, and of course your camping coffee gear and you hit the road. No need for tents, mattresses or any other camping gear, because it is all waiting for you there. Perfect for a quick, meaningful camping experience, that includes luxury tents and warm water, just waiting to spoil you and your family in an environment that is made for relaxing.
It is called Hooikraal and is situated right next to the N2, a few kilometres before Heidelberg in the Western Cape, just three hours from the city rush. The biggest surprise is that if you did not know about this well-kept secret, you would never expect that such a nice camping spot exists.
Hooikraal bushcamp is hidden away in a kloof in the Overberg region, on a farm that is being actively farmed. It is an eco-friendly off the grid camping spot between beautiful Akasia trees in the heart of the Overberg with the Langeberg mountains as a backdrop. The camp site is far removed from the farming activities as you camp undisturbed under the trees.
Camp neighbours will also not disturb you because the tents have been erected in such a way that you hardly even know about other visitors, it is very private and secluded.
The best part about Hooikraal is that you are able to set up your own camp if you so wish or if you are looking for a more cost-effective option compared to the luxury tented option. It is also not necessary to have a 4×4.
More information about accommodation
- Own camping: 12 sites under the Akacia trees with no electricity
- Beautiful ablution facilities with warm water and flushing toilets
- Three completely equipped safari tents, each with their own warm water bath
- Duiker family tent: 4 Sleeper (one double-bed and one bunk-bed)
- Bosbok family tent: 4 Sleeper (one double-bed and one bunk-bed)
- Steenbok Safari tent (Two sleeper)
- No pets allowed
Nearest Town:
8.5 km from Heidelberg, Western Cape (274 km from Cape town)
GPS Coordinates
S 34°06’33.61 E 20°52’48.55
Things to do:
Mountainbiking:
If mountain biking is your thing, this is the right place to get the blood pumping. All the roads on the farm are open to mountain bikers. Grootvaderbosch, which is approximately 10km from the farm also boasts a network of singletrack specially designed for mountain bikers
Hiking
Beautiful farm roads guide you through the vistas of the Overberg, with enough ravines and hideout spots from where you can quietly surprise and enjoy the local wildlife. Pack a daypack and go exploring.
Fishing:
Do not forget about the Breede river, which is located just 40km from Hooikraal and promises the possibility of that 100 pound Kabeljou. From there you can also cast into the sea from the rocks
Something to eat?
For the hungry, or those that do not feel like cooking will be missing out if they do not visit the Skeerhok Farmstall and Butchery, which is located about a kilometre from the camp. You will not regret trying out their breakfast or lunch options. Stock up on meat for the evenings braai while the children feed the tame farm animals
I WANT TO GO, TOO
- Name: Hooikraal Tented Camp
- Location: Heidelberg, Western Cape
- Accomodation: Permanent tents or camping
- Pricing: From R70 per person per night
- Contact: 084 645 8810
- For more information visit www.hooikraalcamp.co.za
Text: Pierre Labuschagne. Photographs: Jaco Uys