Hotels of Earth

Swartkop Cottage

Swartkop Farm KwaZulu-Natal, Winterton, ZA

8.5 guest rating· 85 reviews

About this hotel

Rustic Charm and Riverside Serenity

Off-the-Grid Living : Experience a unique stay at Swartkop Cottage, nestled on a farm by the tranquil Tugela River. Embrace sustainable living with solar lighting and hot water from wood fire.

Secluded Escape : Accessible by a scenic 7km dirt road, immerse yourself in nature without the need for a 4x4 vehicle. The cozy cottage features 2 bedrooms, a lounge area, and a gas stove for a comfortable stay.

Outdoor Adventures : Explore the lush garden, unwind on the sun terrace, or try fishing and canoeing by the river. With Winterton and Ladysmith a short drive away, convenience meets seclusion at Swartkop Cottage.

Book your nature retreat at Swartkop Cottage now for a memorable off-the-grid experience!

Rooms & rates

Two-Bedroom House

Sleeps 6 · 550 m² · 2× Sofa bed

  • Kitchenette
  • Shower
  • Refrigerator
  • Dining area
  • Electric kettle

Amenities

  • Free Parking
  • Private parking
  • Pets allowed
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Family rooms
  • BBQ facilities
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Garden
  • Hiking
  • Horse riding
  • Outdoor fireplace
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Strollers
Show all 16 amenities
  • Sun terrace
  • Terrace

Location

© OpenStreetMap contributors

Swartkop Farm KwaZulu-Natal, Winterton, ZA

Check-in
from 02:00 PM to 05:00 PM
Check-out
until 10:00 AM

What guests say8.585 reviews

+ Off-the-grid experience+ Pet friendlyRough road accessMinor lighting issues
Cleanliness7.9
Service8.9
Location8.9
Room Quality8.3
Amenities8.9
Value for Money8.3

Quiet and beautiful. Lovely to disconnect.

9.0

Gorgeous location, quaint little cottage. Amazing views of the river.

The host didn’t confirm our check in time and didn’t answer the phone when we tried to call several times. We were originally unable to get inside. Thankfully we found a neighbour who spoke just enough English and my husband understood just enough Zulu to get in contact with the cleaner who was able to help us locate the keys.

Cuthbert · AU · 2026-07-08

Perfect off the grid stay

10.0

The location and house is perfect if you want to be off the grid extremely clean and safe the live stock nearby added to the charm

Couldn’t get the gas freezer to work

Andrew · ZA · 2026-06-15

Guest review

8.0

Self catering!

"Road" entrance to cottage area at gate needs attention. To get the keys at the lodge the gate took forever to open. Press button sign does not help if there are 14 buttons on 2 intercoms to choose from.

dave · ZA · 2026-04-22

It was relaxing and peaceful. Our dogs absolutely loved it as well. Living off the grid for a couple of days is good for

9.0

Very secluded, private and peaceful… Loved it

Nothing not to like… it was everything we expected and more….

Stefan · ZA · 2026-04-06

Nice peaceful and quite stay

8.0

The location next to the river The privacy of the house Lekker opi plaas !

The road to te house

Du Toit · ZA · 2026-03-16

Guest review

8.0

Secluded.

Justin · ZA · 2026-03-05

Good to know

Please note that this property has no electricity supply and makes use of solar powered lighting.Please inform of your expected arrival time in advance. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly using the contact details in your confirmation.

Managed by a private host

A deposit may be required at the property.

Pets

Pets are allowed. No extra charges.

Internet

No internet access available.

Children and extra bed policy

Children of any age are allowed.

You haven't added any cots.

You haven't added any extra beds.

Parking

Free private parking is possible on site (reservation is needed).