The Hideaway is one of the oldest homes in Swellendam, a charming town that is often included on tours of South Africa’s famous Garden Route. Hosts Jackie and Stephen claim that theirs is the oldest B&B in South Africa, and while we can’t vouch for this claim, the Hideaway’s beautiful Victorian-era frontage and gracious rose gardens are certainly redolent of an earlier era. Whatever its age, the Hideaway is a lovely guesthouse, mixing old-world charm with first-class hospitality. It’s small (just five rooms), intimate, and well-positioned in the heart of Swellendam. Highly recommended as a one or two night stop-over.
The Hideaway is the recipient of a number of awards, including Essential Travel’s Best B&B in South Africa 2014 award.
Accommodation
The Hideaway offers four generously proportioned suites, all of them attractively furnished with classic antique furniture, in keeping with the age of the home. Each has been individually decorated, but they are furnished to generally the same high standards. The rooms open directly onto the gardens. En-suite bathrooms feature separate bath and shower.
In addition to the suites, there is one standard room. This is located in the original cottage, is smaller than the suites, and opens onto the verandah at the front of the building rather than the garden.
Dining
Guests are treated each morning to a choice of either English cooked breakfast or a full Continental spread, accompanied by a delicious selection of homemade jams and freshly baked pastries!
The Hideaway doesn’t offer a dinner service (bed and breakfast only).
Facilities
- Indoor heated plunge pool
- Lounge area
- Rose gardens
Activities
Available locally (mostly at an additional cost):
- Cycling routes
- Hot springs
- Hiking
- Bird watching
- Balloon flight
- Fishing
- Wine and cheese tasting
- Horse riding
- Game drives
- Golf
Child Policy
The Hideaway accommodates children of all ages. Those under the age of 2 stay free and those under the age of 12 pay half the adult rate.
