The hype
Guests adore the scenery, wildlife roaming the grounds, and the spacious rooms with fireplaces, but food quality is inconsistent.
Kloofzicht Lodge & Spa
$115-185/ night
Book this if You want a fly-fishing retreat or a romantic weekend escape near Johannesburg without driving for hours.
Why People Love It
- Six pristine fly-fishing dams stocked with trout and yellowfish
- Infinity pool with sweeping views of the Zwartkops Mountains
- Hot air balloon launches directly from the property
Quick Take: A stunning nature reserve venue that struggles to balance its identity between a peaceful spa retreat and a busy wedding factory.
Reviewed by @bleetary_travels: I desperately needed a break from Joburg, and this spot in Muldersdrift was the perfect fix. Waking up to the lake view and getting a massage right in nature felt incredible. It’s so close to the city but feels miles away. Highly recommend for a quick recharge.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'peace and quiet' is frequently interrupted by wedding DJs or noisy dam pumps near certain units.
- You are an avid fly-fisherman
- You want a quick nature escape <1 hour from Joburg/Pretoria
- You enjoy rustic luxury with indoor/outdoor showers
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally good daily service, though some guests report missed dust or cigarette butts on patios.
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly clean, but watch out for maintenance issues like leaking taps or worn grout.
- Maintenance: Showing age. Reports of peeling paint, broken AC units, and 'tired' furnishings are common.
- Linens & towels: Standard 4-star quality, generally clean and fresh.
- Odors & scents: Fresh country air, occasionally marred by cigarette smoke from neighbors on patios.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Wedding receptions (weekends)
- Water pumps near the dam
- Neighbors (thin walls in some units)
Before you book
Good to know
- No pets allowed
- Check-in is at 2:00 PM, Check-out is strictly 10:00 AM
- Fly fishing is catch-and-release only for most dams
What to pack
- Warm jacket (evenings get chilly next to the water)
- Fly fishing gear (or rent on-site)
- Hiking boots for the reserve trails
Room Genie
Best picks
- Executive Suites (one level, indoor/outdoor showers, private patio)
- Royal Suite (private heated jacuzzi and fire pit for total seclusion)
Rooms to avoid
- Superior Suites if you hate stairs (they are split-level)
- Units closest to the main function venue if you want to sleep before midnight on Saturday
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am looking for a quiet Executive Suite as far away from the wedding venue and dam pumps as possible. A view of the water is preferred.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
No, the main infinity pool and outdoor pool are unheated. Only the Royal Suite has a private heated jacuzzi.
Can I fish in the dams?
Yes, there are 6 dams. It is a premier fly-fishing venue (trout, bass, yellowfish). Catch and release rules apply.
Is there a conservation levy?
Not explicitly listed for individual bookings, but gate fees are common in the Cradle area. Confirm at booking.
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes, there are Family Suites, a playground, and wildlife on site, but the vibe is more adult/corporate/wedding focused.
How is the food?
Hit or miss. Oevermeer Bistro offers good casual pizza and views; the main restaurant (The Reserve/Uitzicht) has mixed reviews for fine dining.
Is there cell service?
Yes, but it can be patchy in the reserve. WiFi is free but speed varies.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book a hot air balloon ride for sunrise; they launch directly from the lodge grounds.
- ✨
Request a table on the deck at Oevermeer Bistro for sunset; the view over the dam is unbeatable.
- ✨
The 'Little Foot Bar' is a great spot for a nightcap if the main restaurant is too stuffy.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'indoor/outdoor' showers in Executive Suites are a highlight but can be chilly in winter.
💡You might find a bat or bugs in your room—it is a nature reserve, after all.
💡The dam pumps run at night and can be a low-frequency drone for nearby rooms.
💡Sunday lunch buffet is popular with locals, so the restaurant gets packed.
💡Maintenance is an ongoing battle; don't be surprised by a loose tap or peeling paint.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Kloofzicht Lodge & Spa is located and what's nearby.