Accommodation & Events @ Welbedacht Nature Reserve — Hotel in Witzenberg Local Municipality

Before leaving this, it took us a while to decide wether to proceed or not, as we dont use to write reviews, even though we are frequently travelling around the world. While in Cape Town, we decided to book 2 nights at this location, mostly for the fishing purposes, as the location is promoted in regard. Even though i specifically let them know the reason why we are coming, also asked for more information about where we can angle, i got nearly nothing in reply, but we were really anxious to reach it, as we did visit the Tulbagh area many times, and we were familiar with a lot of dams being around. We paid in advance for 2 nights, got there the next day, but no sign of dam was nearby, so i checked out the brochure i found inside of the lodge, to read in there, that the dam has no fish.... Needless to say that we tried to contact them via whatsapp and email, no succes though. We left after 20 minutes, went to Rijks Wineyard for one night and Reflections for the second. Eventually, we got replied after 3 days ( !!), and not with any apologies, which frankly would have not been of any help, but we did ( knidly) ask if they would refund us, but never got. So here is why we left 1 star : first of all, customer relationship should be important in this kind of business, but we didnt benefit at all. Second, a refund would have been the case here, because we spend 20 minutes at the venue, and mostly outside, nothing has been touched. Least and not last, getting a reply back after 3 days, with a picture attached to the email ( fisherman with a bass ?! )wasnt helpful or proffesional at all.Final, it was one of our biggest dissapointment during our '24 SA trip, so never again. The intention of this review, if you re willing to accept, is to improve your guest relationship to an extent where they can benefit of all the information requested, refund policies should also be taken into consideration, and advertising your venue online should contain accurate information, as the area and the vibe is indeed very quiet and full of...

We stayed in the Tortoise Cottage. The location is prime - hidden away between the mountains of Tulbagh. The area has some nice views, while the cottage is hidden away behind some Olive trees. The self-check in was lovely and clear instructions were given. The Tortoise cottage is spacious, with an equipped kitchen and big seating area. Although, we found that for the hefty price paid - the pots and pans were not in a great condition. The Pick n Pay pan is warped and due for an upgrade. Then, although the cottage was presented as neat, the overall feel was slightly dirty. The floors were not clean, and the carpets are extremely dirty. The shower in the bathroom needs cleaning - felt a bit grimy. Next, the hosts have very strict rules as to the cleaning of the cottage whilst one stays there (do not leave dirty dishes, take your trash out, additional cleaning fee)- but then we found the cottage in such a state. Not what one would expect - especially not for this price. We thoroughly enjoyed the Kolkol hot tub, but the hosts also do not provide enough wood to heat up the hottub. They claim that one must stay for longer than three days if you want additional firewood for free. We felt they were stingy with the wood.

We were also not provided with a duvet. We were sleeping in the cold stormy weather with nothing but a sheet.

Even though we enjoyed the serenity and tranquil nature reserve, the hikes were bliss!, we do not highly recommend this stay. There are better hide-aways in the area for a much...

Our weekend in the Welbedacht nature reserve was a great experience. Located at least a good 10km out of Tulbagh, we really felt way out in the bush. We loved all the animals roaming around – zebra, mongoose, and various antelope mainly. We stayed in the Eagle cottage, one of many stone cottages spaced throughout the reserve, all very private. Our cottage was beautiful, a bit on the small side, but very comfortable nonetheless. There is no TV or Wifi, but the 4G phone signal is very strong, so still able to stay in contact if you want. The cottage is self-catering with a good kitchen, complete with everything you might need. We were there in winter and made use of the little open fireplace – it really warmed the place up. The view from our veranda was great, overlooking the dam and valley below. The pine and protea forest around the cottage had been recently burned, so a bit parched looking. We loved that this place is pet-friendly, as we like to travel around with our 2 small dogs. There is a good network of hiking trails in the reserve and we went exploring with the dogs every day, nearly covering every trail. It is also situated on the route of the Tulbagh Farm Loop mountain biking trails, so easy access to the trails if you have a bike. Some of the biking trails can be quite rocky, but for the most part they are good and well-used. We loved our stay here and would definitely stay here again while in the Tulbagh area. Highly...