Peaceful self-catering cottages tucked away in the heart of the Karkloof Valley

A perfect retreat to relax and unwind. An adventurous escape to explore renowned hiking and mountain bike trails, and a recommended birder’s paradise, Gartmore Guest Farm is the Midlands stay you’ve been looking for.

BirdLife South Africa Recommended Accommodation

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BirdLife South Africa Recommended Accommodation ★

  • Midlands Meander Accommodation

    Cottages

    Gartmore Cottages are nestled in the picturesque Natal Midlands. The Crane Cottage is ideal for families, The Rondavel is perfect for couples and the River Cottage is ready for your romantic getaway. We have also added our Bell Cottages - designed with the adventure-seekers in mind. All cottages feature private gardens, braai facilities, and come fully equipped for a comfortable stay.

  • Karkloof Accommodation

    Activities

    For outdoor lovers, our farm has much to offer. Enjoy a birder's paradise with the Karkloof Conservancy hides on the farm wetlands to seek out some specials and lifers, and for adventure seekers the Karkloof Club with its renowned trails is down the road. View all there is to explore on and around the farm, as well as tourist attractions to add to your to-do list while staying with us.

River Cottage

Escape to the heart of the Karkloof Valley at River Cottage. Enjoy stunning sunsets over the river from your doorstep in a secure and serene setting. Accommodating 2 adults with space for kids, it’s the ideal tranquil getaway. Treat yourself!

  • Weekdays (Monday - Thursday): From R1200 - R1450 per night.

    Weekend (Thurs - Sunday): From R1400 - R1750 per night.

    Please get in touch with us for your personalised quote.

The Rondavel

A cozy retreat for couples or solo adventurers, this cottage features an open-plan bedroom and living area with a fireplace, along with an en-suite bathroom for added comfort. The Rondavel is pet-friendly on request.

  • Weekdays (Monday - Thursday): From R950 per night.

    Weekend (Friday - Sunday): From R1250 per night.

    Single person rate available. Contact us for your personalised quote.

Crane Cottage

Perfect for families or a group of friends, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom cottage with a loft is designed for social gatherings and creating lasting memories around the firepit.

  • Weekdays (Monday - Thursday): From R1400 - R2000 per night.

    Weekend (Saturday - Sunday): From R1800.00 - R2500 per night.

    Please get in touch with us for your personalised quote.

The Bell Cottages

Keeping it simple with all you need on an adventure-filled holiday to explore the Karkloof trails. These two sleeper units with shared kitchen and braai area allows groups and families to gather for a nature filled weekend in the Midlands. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, such a cyclists and trail runners - we’ve designed these with the explorers in mind (bike-washing area, braai facilities and views to savour).

  • Starting from R350 pppn.

    Contact us for your personalised quote.

You’ve come this far, now all you need to do is book with us!

Or if you need more convincing, see what our previous guests have to say about their stay below.

  • Such a beautiful place to stay. Would recommend if you want to get away from busy life in the city. And the house is modern and fresh. Would highly recommend.

    December 2024

  • Amazing location, with incredible views. The morning dew smells amazing and it was just what we wanted and more. It’s so peaceful and quiet.

    December 2024

  • We had a wonderful stay at River Cottage. It surpassed our expectations and we didn’t want to leave! The cottage is beautifully decorated and kitted out to a very high standard. The setting on the farm is stunning and so peaceful with amazing walks on your doorstep. Bronwyn is an excellent host and couldn’t have been more helpful and welcoming. We will definitely be returning!

    December 2025

  • Absolutely awesome, out in the country , so peaceful and relaxing. Accommodation spotless and clean and fresh and well equipped. Item

    Karin Abbott - March 2024

  • What a wonderful experience, in our beautifully decorated cosy rondawel! We had a once-in-a-lifetime experience seeing a calf being born and listening to the wisdom of a seasoned farmer telling us all about Karkloof conservation! Our hostess, Bron, was very attentive and took care of our every need!

    Richard C - August 2023

  • The hosts are super friendly and were always available. Great location and the rondawel had everything we needed for our stay.

    Linda H - August 2023

  • What an incredible stay!! Expectations were exceeded in every possible way. From the exquisite avenue of trees and rolling green farms lands, to amazing host & exceptionally well furnished, beautiful unit.

    Zayntana Peters - September 2022

  • Bronwyn and her family are great hosts. This has to rank as one of the greatest hide- aways on the Midlands Meander. If you're looking for dog- friendly accommodation, look no further.

    Darryl Davids - June 2024

  • We loved our stay at Gartmore! The farm is so beautiful and peaceful. It's also awesome that the cottage has its own little enclosed garden which makes it great when you are travelling with your dog. I'll definitely visit Gartmore again.

    Megan Loftie-Eaton - September 2023