The History of Cederberg Ridge
Cederberg Ridge is nestled on Kleinvlei Farm, one of the most historic farms in the region. Irish settlers, led by William Parker, arrived in the fledgling town of Clanwilliam in 1807, making it the seventh oldest town in South Africa. Interestingly, this area had been explored in the late 17th century by one of Anton’s ancestors, Oloff Martinus Bergh.
William Parker was granted land in the Kleine Valley (1,600 morgen), now Kleinvlei Farm. However, Parker, accustomed to Ireland’s rainy climate, found the hot and dry Mediterranean weather of the Cederberg less appealing and soon returned to Ireland. Fortunately, the Shaw family chose to stay and made their home in Shaw’s Kloof. Today, one of our most picturesque farm walks takes you through this beautiful valley, where you can see the remnants of their old cottages.
Farming at Kleinvlei has always been challenging due to the minimal rainfall, classifying the area as semi-arid with less than 200mm of rain annually. Despite this, the valley’s river made farming just feasible. The settlers moved further down the valley, building a white-washed thatched house as their home. In the 1840s, descendants of Oloff Bergh returned to the area, purchasing a farm on the other side of the Cederberg Mountains, which you can visit on a rock art excursion to the Sevilla Rock Art Trail. Later, they moved to a farm at the top of Pakhuis Pass, now the headquarters of Cape Nature, where some of Anton’s ancestors’ graves still lie. In 1907, the Bergh family bought Kleinvlei Farm and extended the original 1820s house into a four-bedroom residence.
Anton’s grandfather and father developed a series of irrigation channels to divert river water into the orchards, marking the beginning of water irrigation on the farm. Anton’s father, Denis, later built a large dam, expanding the farm’s agricultural capabilities.
In 2013, tragedy struck when the original 1820s Cape Dutch homestead, where Anton’s widowed mother resided, burnt down. The fire, fueled by the thatched roof, consumed the house within half an hour. Despite the swift arrival on the scene, it was too late to save the home. Fortunately, Anton’s mother was away at the time, and no one was harmed. She then moved to a smaller house, and rather than rebuild the farmhouse, we decided to fulfill our long-held dream of creating a lodge.
Thus, Simbavati Cederberg Ridge was born, transforming a significant loss into an opportunity to share the beauty and history of this little-known area with others. This lodge now stands as a testament to resilience and vision, offering a luxurious retreat that celebrates the unique charm and natural splendor of the Cederberg region.
When to Visit Simbavati Cederberg Ridge
Simbavati Cederberg Ridge can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what activities and experiences you are looking for.
Spring (September to November)
Best for: Wildflowers, Hiking, Pleasant Weather
Spring is an ideal time to visit the Cederberg for its spectacular wildflower displays, particularly in September. The weather is mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the scenic landscapes.
Summer (December to February)
Best for: Warm Weather, Water Activities,
Stargazing Summers in the Cederberg are warm to hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). This is the best time for water activities such as swimming and tubing in the rivers. The clear summer nights are also excellent for stargazing. However, it can be quite hot during the day, so early morning or late afternoon activities are recommended.
Autumn (March to May)
Best for: Mild Weather, Hiking, Cultural Excursions
Autumn offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures compared to summer, making it another great time for hiking and outdoor excursions. The landscapes remain green and lush from the recent summer rains, and it’s also a wonderful time to explore cultural and historical sites, such as the ancient rock art of the San people.
Winter (June to August)
Best for: Cozy Lodge Experience, Quieter Time, Scenic Beauty
Winter in the Cederberg can be quite cold, especially at night, but this is the time to enjoy the cozy interiors of the lodge with its warm hospitality. The days are cooler but often clear and sunny, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the serene, quieter atmosphere of the region.
Overall, the best time to visit Simbavati Cederberg Ridge depends on your preference for weather and activities. Each season offers a unique experience, from vibrant spring blooms and summer adventures to the tranquil beauty of winter and the colorful hues of autumn.
Rooms & Suites
Classic Rooms: Located in the main homestead, these rooms (32 sqm) are perfect for those who prefer being close to the lodge’s central facilities. The Classic View room offers stunning garden and mountain views from the main terrace, while the Classic Courtyard room overlooks a tranquil courtyard and is wheelchair accessible .
Luxury Suites: These spacious (52 sqm) and airy rooms feature stunning views over the Cederberg Mountains. They come with cozy window seats, air conditioning for summer, and wood-burning fireplaces for winter. Each suite includes a free-standing bath, an indoor shower that leads to an outdoor shower with mountain views, and a charming stone terrace perfect for alfresco sleep-outs.
Superior Suites: Slightly larger (64 sqm) than the Luxury Suites, these suites offer additional amenities such as a large walk-through shower and built-in day beds on the terrace. The Superior Honeymoon Suite (67 sqm) features a separate sitting room and a generous terrace, ideal for those seeking more privacy and space. This suite can also be combined with an adjacent Luxury Suite to form a two-bedroom villa, perfect for families.
Superior Pool Suites: These suites provide exceptional privacy and luxury with added features such as a wood-fired plunge pool (heated in winter) and a queen-sized day bed for sunbathing or star-gazing. One suite includes a small sitting area with a sleeper couch, making it ideal for families.
Why we love it
Activities
Various walking routes and mountain bike trails start from the lodge, and a firepit is available for star-gazing evenings .
Spa
Includes a relaxation room and a small curio shop.
Pools
The lodge features a large main pool, a solar-heated sunset pool, and indigenous gardens with a croquet lawn.
Great Food
Enjoy dining with a picturesque view that overlooks the breathtaking mountainous landscape.
Special Occasions
For those celebrating special occasions, the lodge offers romantic setups such as private dinners on the terrace or pool deck, and even a sleep-out on your private terrace under the stars. Special honeymoon offers and arrangements can also be made to ensure a memorable experience
Experiences Around Simbavati Cederberg Ridge
Family-Friendly Adventures at Cederberg Ridge
We take older kids from 8 years upwards, (and sometimes 6 or 7 years only with prior arrangement), as we feel that Simbavati Cederberg Ridge and the farm are the perfect environment for older kids.
The reserve offers the perfect location to discover and immerse your child into a wilderness wonderland.
Generally our rugged mountain environment is not ideal for very young kids, as we don’t have child-minding facilities.
Fill your days with walks on the farm or in the mountains, or swimming & tubing on the Clanwilliam dam in summer. Kids also love visiting the farm. At the lodge itself, you can make the most of the swimming pool, croquet and board games.
There are no TVs in the rooms. But there is a Smart TV in the library if it’s a rainy day. Or if your children want to escape the restaurant before you do.
Child Accommodation
Children (8 to 11 years) pay 50% of per person sharing rate if sharing with parents. Teenagers (12 to 17 years) pay 75% of the per person sharing rate if accommodated on an extra bed/ But ONLY in the below room types.
The following rooms can take extra children of eight and older:
- Luxury Suites can accommodate one extra child (8-11 years) on the window seat which can be converted into a bed. (It is 175cm by 85cm so slightly smaller than a regular bed).
- One Superior suite can accommodate one extra child (8-11 years) on the window seat as above. Plus an extra bed can be placed in the sitting room for a child or teenager.
- Superior Pool Suites can also accommodate one extra child (8-11 years) on the window seat. (It is 175cm by 85cm so slightly smaller than a regular bed). One suite can also accommodate one child/teenager up to 17 on a sleeper couch.
We have several rooms where two rooms are adjacent to each other under one roof, sharing a covered outside foyer (One Superior/Superior Pool Suite with One Luxury Suite). We recommend families with older children/teenagers may like to request these. Together these two bedroom units can accommodate up to four adults and 2-3 extra children.
Please note that children occupying their own rooms pay adult rates.
Related Stories
- Luxury accommodation at Simbavati Cederberg Ridge
- All meals as per the itinerary
- Wine tastings and pairings from Boschendal, Bellingham, and Fryer’s Cove
- Guided activities including sundowner walk, cellar visit, stargazing, and rock art tour
Excludes: Spa treatments, beverages outside the tasting menus, transfers, curios, and personal expenses.
Rates (Per Person Per Night, Sharing)
- Classic Rooms: R3,380
- Luxury Suites: R3,820
- Superior Suites: R4,040
- Superior Pool Suites: R4,240
Single Supplement: 33% of the per-person sharing rate
Special Offer: Extend Your Stay & Save
Make your wine weekend even more memorable. Add a 3rd or 4th night on a Dinner, Bed & Breakfast basis at these exclusive rates:
- Classic Room: R2,125 pppn sharing
- Luxury Suite: R2,500 pppn sharing
- Superior Suite: R2,700 pppn sharing
- Superior Pool Suite: R2,850 pppn sharing
Cederberg
Cederberg Ridge
The Cederberg Ridge Wine Weekend
- 3 classic and 6 luxury including a two bedroom superior suite
- Communal lounge areas and ocean-view decks
- A private villa option for the couple or VIPs
- Gourmet meals and local wines
- Outdoor activities including hikes, e-biking, and nature walks
Spend your mornings on sunrise walks, your afternoons by the pool, and your evenings around the fire pit under a starlit African sky.
Ceremony & Reception Options
Choose from a variety of magical locations for your ceremony and reception:
- A wooden deck overlooking the Indian Ocean
- A tranquil forest clearing surrounded by birdsong
- Open fynbos fields with 360° views
- Intimate indoor spaces with floor-to-ceiling windows
Each space is adaptable for your style — rustic, romantic, boho, or beach chic.
The Best Place for a Destination Wedding in 2025
Simbavati Fynbos on Sea is perfect for international couples seeking a unique, nature-immersed celebration with the charm and warmth of African hospitality.
With George Airport just 45 minutes away (with daily flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg), and private transfers available, travel logistics are a breeze. The lodge also has a long-standing reputation for hosting overseas guests, ensuring a seamless, welcoming experience.
Elopements & Micro Weddings
Big weddings aren't for everyone. If you're looking for a more intimate experience, Simbavati Fynbos on Sea is also a popular elopement venue. Exchange vows with the ocean breeze in your hair and nothing but birdsong around you. Elopement packages are simple, elegant, and stress-free.
Picture-Perfect Moments
If your wedding album is important to you, you’ll be blown away by the setting. With a variety of natural backdrops — from golden dunes to deep green forest paths — your photos will be as breathtaking as the day itself.
Many photographers call Simbavati Fynbos on Sea one of the most photogenic wedding venues in the Garden Route.
Activities for You and Your Guests
Make your wedding a full-blown adventure! Guests can enjoy:
- Guided fynbos and birdwatching walks
- Beach trips to Myoli or Gericke’s Point
- Sundowners with a view
- Day trips to Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, or wine estates
There’s something for every generation, making this an ideal multigenerational destination wedding venue.
Planning Your Wedding at Simbavati
Dates book fast — especially during peak Garden Route seasons (September to April). We recommend securing your date 8–12 months in advance if you’re hosting a full-scale wedding or bringing guests from overseas.
Get in touch with our team at Simbavati to start planning your one-of-a-kind wedding experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Weddings at Simbavati Fynbos on Sea
We’re in Sedgefield, along South Africa’s Garden Route, about 45 minutes from George Airport and 30 minutes from Knysna. Easily accessible by road or air.
Up to 20 guests can be accommodated on-site. Additional nearby accommodation is available in Sedgefield and Wilderness.
You’re welcome to bring your suggestions up with our Simbavati management team. We’re flexible and happy to collaborate.
From full weekend weddings and destination events to micro weddings and elopements — we cater to them all.
Absolutely. We offer exclusive-use options, ensuring complete privacy for you and your guests during your celebration.
Yes! We frequently host couples from abroad and can help coordinate logistics, guest stays, excursions, and local vendors.
Spring (September–November) and Autumn (March–May) offer the best weather and lighting. Summer is also beautiful, but busier in the Garden Route.
Our Tips for Planning Your Destination Wedding
Planning a destination wedding can feel overwhelming — but with the right guidance, it can be a joyful, seamless experience. Here are our top tips to help you plan your dream wedding at a venue like Simbavati Fynbos on Sea.
Start Early and Book in Advance
Popular wedding venues — especially in sought-after destinations like the Garden Route — get booked quickly. Secure your date 9–12 months in advance, especially if you’re getting married during peak season (September to April in South Africa).
Visit the Venue (If You Can)
If it’s feasible, try to visit your venue beforehand. It helps to envision the space, meet the team, and finalize layout ideas. Simbavati Fynbos on Sea offers private viewings and virtual consultations for overseas couples.
Hire a Local Wedding Planner
A local planner knows the best vendors, legal requirements, and cultural touches to make your day flawless. Simbavati works with experienced coordinators who can handle everything from florals to guest transport.
Keep It Intimate
Destination weddings naturally lend themselves to smaller guest lists. Focus on inviting your nearest and dearest — and treat it as a once-in-a-lifetime gathering with those who matter most.
Provide Guest Information Early
Help guests plan by sharing detailed information well in advance. Include:
- Travel and visa details
- Accommodation options (on-site and nearby)
- Itineraries for wedding weekend events
- What to pack and weather expectations
Incorporate Local Flavour
Embrace your destination by incorporating local cuisine, décor, music, or traditions. At Fynbos on Sea, you can serve Cape wines, enjoy South African-inspired menus, and even add a nature walk or beach brunch to your celebration.
Prepare for the Weather
The Garden Route has a temperate climate, but always have a backup plan (e.g. indoor ceremony space or marquee tent) in case of rain or wind — especially for outdoor weddings.
Legal vs Symbolic Ceremonies
If you're marrying abroad, check the legal marriage requirements for that country. Many couples opt for a symbolic ceremony in their destination and complete the legal paperwork at home.
Plan Group Activities
Make your wedding a full experience by organizing optional activities like sunset drinks, beach days, game drives, or group hikes. At Simbavati, your guests can enjoy guided nature experiences throughout the weekend.
Stay Calm and Be Flexible
Destination weddings come with moving parts — flights, vendors, weather, etc. Stay open, trust your venue and planner, and focus on what matters most: celebrating love with your favourite people.
Ready to Say "I Do"?
Whether you're searching for wedding venues near me, planning a destination event, or simply looking for a setting that reflects your love of nature, Simbavati Fynbos on Sea is where your forever begins.
[post_title] => Your Ultimate Wedding Venue on the Garden Route: Simbavati Fynbos on Sea [post_excerpt] => Whether you're planning an intimate elopement or a multi-day destination wedding, this venue offers everything you need to make your special day truly unforgettable. Let’s explore why Simbavati Fynbos on Sea is one of the best wedding venues in South Africa — and possibly the world. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => destination-wedding-venue [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-05-28 15:29:07 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-28 13:29:07 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.simbavati.com/?p=20540 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )Let nature bear witness to your vows. Let luxury surround your celebration. Let your story begin at Simbavati.
Fynbos on Sea
Your Ultimate Wedding Venue on the Garden Route: Simbavati Fynbos on Sea
- Morning Sunrise Rituals: Start your day with a quiet sunrise at Myoli Beach, sipping coffee as the first light paints the sky.
- Journaling in Nature: Find a peaceful spot in Goukamma Nature Reserve to reflect and write.
- Mindful Evenings: Swap screen time for stargazing or storytelling around a fire pit.
Sedgefield, A Place to Be Present
Sedgefield is more than just a destination—it’s a mindset. Whether you’re savoring fresh produce at a market, meditating by the ocean, or hiking through fynbos-covered hills, this slow town encourages you to be present in every moment. By embracing its laid-back charm, supporting sustainable initiatives, and immersing yourself in mindful experiences, you’ll leave not just refreshed, but with a deeper appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.
Sedgefield: The Perfect Destination for a Slow Holiday
So, the next time you visit Sedgefield, don’t just pass through—slow down, stay longer, and let this tranquil haven work its magic on you.
[post_title] => Embracing Slow Travel in Sedgefield: A Deeper Dive into Tranquility [post_excerpt] => Sedgefield, nestled along South Africa’s breathtaking Garden Route, is more than just a scenic stopover—it’s a destination designed for those who seek to unwind, reconnect with nature, and [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => embracing-slow-travel-in-sedgefield-a-deeper-dive-into-tranquility [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-04-15 12:33:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-04-15 10:33:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.simbavati.com/?p=20312 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )
Fynbos on Sea
Embracing Slow Travel in Sedgefield: A Deeper Dive into Tranquility
Fynbos on Sea
Simbavati Safari
Cederberg Ridge
Simbavati Tanzania
