[imagesource:here]

Call me old-fashioned, but I love roughing it out in the sticks.

Fending off mozzies, a meal cooked in the dark over open flames as you second guess whether the chicken will give you salmonella, these are all a part of the fun of sleeping underneath the stars.

That’s not everyone’s jam though, which is why the term ‘glamping’ has become increasingly popular the past few years.

So you want to dabble, but don’t know where to start? Inside Guide have put together a list of the Cape’s best offerings, and we’ve selected three that look like a weekend well spent.

BUFFALO DRIFT LODGE

This would be that picture up top, and if there’s cowhide strewn across the floor you know they’re not mucking around

Where Tulbagh
What Located on a farm in Tulbagh and Yzerfontein, this site offers a variety of accommodation types and is a popular venue for functions. The luxury tented camps on the Tulbagh side are suitable for romantic getaways, or for a family looking for something different. They sleep a maximum of four people, and have a balcony that overlooks your private stretch of the Berg River.
Facilities The self-catering tents have an equipped kitchenette, as well as a private braai area. Each has its own ensuite bathroom with a shower, basin and toilet, as well as plug points. They also have have easy access to a private stretch of the Berg River.
Activities Saddle up and explore the scenic Tulbagh Valley on horseback, or stock up on birthstones, suncatchers, chimes, crystals and beaded goods (if that’s your thing) at Crystal Cave. Clay-pigeon shooting and Paintball are available on the farm, but should be booked two weeks in advance.
Cost R600 for 2 adults sharing
R200 per additional adult (tents can sleep 4 people)
R125 per child under 13

ELGIN HILLS LUXURY TENTED CAMP [imagesource:here]

Where Elgin
What Situated on the Palmiet River, Elgin Hills is all about comfort and warm hospitality. Each tent is built on a solid base among sturdy indigenous trees and has its own deck and chairs to lounge on.
Facilities Ensuite bathrooms are equipped with a shower and loo. Standard tents sleep two people on queen-size beds; larger tents can fit an extra bed for children if required. The camp is completely self-catering with a lapa providing full kitchen facilities for guests.
Activities The Palmiet River flows through the camp, with a lapa at the top of the hill with amazing views of the meandering river and wooded valley below. There are wonderful walks in the wooded hills and surrounding fruit farms, and The Elgin Apple Museum is one of only two apple museums in the world!
Cost R550 per person sharing (for 1 night)
R450 per person sharing (for 2 nights)

CARACAL BUSH CAMP, AFRICAN GAME LODGE [imagesource:here]

Where Montagu
What The ultimate African getaway is just a two-and-a-half-hour drive out of Cape Town. Completely off the grid, the farm uses solar energy for power. The Caracal Bush Camp (situated right next to the dam) offers uninterrupted views of the stunning koppies, and guests might even be lucky enough to spot one or both of the lodge’s cheetahs from the private deck.
Facilities The camp sleeps 2 adults and 2 children. There is a small kitchen for preparing meals, and a stone bathroom with flush toilet and heated water. The tent has a private deck with wooden furniture.
Activities Nature lovers will love the game-viewing drives, while fitness fanatics might enjoy a spot of hiking and mountain-biking. And for the history buffs, there’s a Bushman Paintings drive. There’s also a dam at the lodge for swimming (no fishing), and guests can join staff as they feed the resident cheetahs in the mornings and evenings.
Cost R520 per person

I’ve chosen three that won’t shatter the bank balance, but the Inside Guide list ranges right up to the princely sum of R5828 per person per night.

That last one better have all the glam.

[source:insideguide]