Sanbona Wildlife Reserve - accommodation in Montagu, Cape Town, South Africa

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The name Sanbona, a combination of the "San" people, who occupied the area 100 years ago and "bona" representing their vision have been combined to position this 54 000 ha little Karoo property. The sheer expanse of the open valleys, 650 plant species, 160 bird species, rock faces, rock art and variety of wildlife make this a destination not to be missed.

The sheer expanse and stark beauty of the Reserve gives one a sense of humbleness, the realization of the in consequentialities of life, a temporary release of the daily stresses of everyday living and could be a deemed a profound spiritual experience. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve allows one to be at peace, allowing one to curl up with a book, seeking solitude and introspection.

Magnificent views, panoramic landscapes and towering cliffs, streams and the abundance of trees and indigenous flora, all contribute to making the Breede River Valley one of the Western Cape's most diverse regions. The ever-changing colors of our majestic mountains, scenic passes, rivers, vineyards and orchards as well as the multitude of attractions, will offer you an unforgettable adventure, whether this is in the physical sense or simply a kaleidoscope of scenic experiences.

Innovation and pride, combined with a terrain and mild climate that are harmoniously balanced, result in the prominence of our region's wines. The R62 Route which links the Breede River Valley and Klein Karoo, will take you along the longest wine route in the world.

The easily accessible towns, nestled among the Valleys, all offer ample opportunity for discovery. From visits to wineries and game reserves, art and cultural tours, museums, hiking trails and mountain climbing, 4x4 routes and canoing expeditions, even riding the worlds largest birds, fishing and caves. You can unwind in one of the invigorating hot-springs, revel in luxury or relax in rustic tranquility.

We look forward to sharing the unexpected pleasures of the Breede River Valley and Route 62 with you!

The reserve consists of two lodges, namely:

Tilney Manor has six luxuriously appointed rooms. This exclusivity ensures that guests can experience personal service and world-class cuisine in an atmosphere of privacy and tranquility. Comfortable lounges with fireplaces for winter nights, private verandas, romantic freestanding baths and carefully sheltered outdoor showers are just a few of the pleasures that guests can enjoy. More modern comforts include air-conditioning, satellite television, private bars and tea and coffee making facilities. Our fully equipped Spa offers guests the opportunity to recover from the rigors of the outside world and restore their sense of inner harmony. This is the perfect environment for rediscovering creativity and regenerating energy. Cape Georgian decor draws on the natural colours of the surrounding stone and vegetation, with subtle touches of San culture influencing the design throughout the guest rooms and conference facility.

Sanbona's second lodge, Khanni, is named after the San word for Eland - a magnificent antelope revered by the San as ruler of the animal kingdom. Tucked away in a secluded valley overlooking a natural watering hole, Khanni Lodge is an idyllic Klein Karoo summer house, with wrap-around verandas, high lime-washed ceilings and exposed beams providing a feeling of cool, airy space. From the veranda and rim-flow swimming pool guests can watch animals visiting the watering hole to drink, and the private verandas of the lodge's four spacious suites offer exquisite views of the surrounding landscape. Khanni Lodge provides guests with an enchanting choice of settings in which to relax - from the airy dining room and cosy lounge with its fireplace, to the outdoor dining patio and barbecue facilities.

Fauna, flora and activities

Traverse the landscape of Sanbona Wildlife Reserve with a qualified ranger in comfortable open landrovers. During the drive, be it in the early morning or for sundowners, various species of plants, animals, big game and birds can be seen. Sundowner evening drives offer spectacular displays of light as the evening sun sets over the Little Karoo. Returning to the Lodge, nocturnal animals can often be seen.

Relax, rejuvenate and be pampered! One of the major features at Tilney Manor is the fully equipped Wellness Centre, where East meets West in interesting blends of specialized massage therapies and treatments. From the eclectic Jamu massage designed to increase blood circulation and release muscle tension to the sensuous Javanese Lulur Spa ritual that ex foliates, polishes and pampers, peaceful oblivion is achieved. Hydro-therapy treatments include a Hydro-bath with intense jets of water to promote blood circulation and finally the steam room and sauna with scented eucalyptus oils to enhance respiration. Special package treatments are tailor-made to one's individual needs. Only the finest Decléor products are used.

Be it a high-powered break for executive decision-making or an incentive getaway, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offers a venue with a difference. A private Boardroom for 12 delegates with standard audio-visual and conference equipment is available at Tilney Manor.

  Note to accommodation seekers

As our name implies, all booking enquiries sent from Cape Town Direct go directly to home owners.

You will be sent an email with the home owners contact details in 24 hours - thus, in the event that they have not gotten back to you in that time, you can contact them directly.

We pride ourselves in being a commission free service and hope that you have enjoyed your visit and will return soon.

Need to hire a car during your stay?