Spring Soaks
There are few things more relaxing than sinking into a hot bath. Even better is making a weekend of it. The Western Cape is home to a surprising number of natural hot springs. From intimate escapes to family friendly venues, this Spring, while the nights still hold a hint of winter chill, unwind in the warm waters of the Cape.
The Baths, Citrusdal
The history books tell us that the wonders of the Citrusdal hot springs in the Olifants River Valley were documented as early as 1739. But even earlier records, in the form of Bushmen paintings, reveal that these 43°C hot springs have been part of human life for thousands of years. As Europeans settled in the area, they soon built bath houses to harness the power of the waters.
Today, the farm is run by the great-grandchildren of James McGregor who bought the Baths in 1903 and it has a casual, comfortable atmosphere.
Only a few hours’ drive from Cape Town, accommodation ranges from quiet, sheltered camp sites to private chalets or flats.
There are outdoor hot and cold swimming pools as well as indoor spring water baths. These are particularly noteworthy as you can lock the door and relax in privacy. And, if the soaking leaves you too relaxed to cook up a storm, MacGregor’s restaurant has tasty food and wine for you to enjoy.
The Baths has a no television, no cell phone environment, so when you are not in the water, enjoy walks through the mountains or brush up on your bird watching skills.
In a nutshell: A good value for money choice for a couple’s weekend away; an easy trip with the kids or with close friends.
Web: www.thebaths.co.za
Tel: + 27 22 921 8026/7
Avalon Springs Hotel & Spa Resort, Montagu
Avalon Springs, one of the most popular springs in the Cape, is a scenic two hour drive from Cape Town. Situated near the quaint town of Montagu, the resort is flanked by the impressive Breede River Mountains.
On a much larger scale than the Citrusdal Baths, Avalon Springs has been a family favourite for years. With palm trees, water slides and cocktails, this would not be my first choice for romance. That said, if your idea of a break involves parking off at the poolside bar, or stewing in 40°C spring water while the children go wild on the waterslides, Avalon is for you.
While the main hotel is looking a little tired, the recently constructed mountain chalets offer a more private and comfortable experience and come complete with big screen televisions, surround sound and private Jacuzzis.
In a nutshell: If you are looking for fun for the whole family with some relaxing spring water soaking thrown in, this is for you.
Web: www.avalonsprings.co.za
Tel: + 27 23 614 1150
ATKV Goudini Spa Holiday Resort, Breede River Valley
Situated about an hour’s drive from Cape Town and surrounded by vineyards, this is the spot to combine a host of pleasures.
Named “Goudini” after the Khoisan word for the area meaning “place of bitter honey”, the therapeutic mineral water for which this area is renowned bubbles from the earth at a piping 52°C.
While there are spa treatments available, the main attraction at the resort is the mineral baths, their natural setting and the various entertainment possibilities at Goudini. “Our philosophy of natural health incorporates healing and rejuvenating body, mind and soul. Slow down, rest your soul, try new things,” says Louise van Tonder, Goudini’s Marketing Manager.
Children can go wild on the super tube slide; couples can share nature walks, star gazing, and horse riding or try their hand at tennis, volleyball or mini golf. Located in the wine rich Breede Valley, Goudini is also a good base from which to explore the many vineyards the region is famous for.
There are a number of graded accommodation options, but for more refined tastes, the private Slanghoek villas are ideal.
In a nutshell: This is a large resort with lots of entertainment and activities. It forms part of the Afrikaanse Taal en Kultuur Vereniging’s (ATKV) group of resorts, and members get a substantial discount. This is perfect for families with children, groups of friends or romantic couples.
Web: www.goudinispa.co.za
Tel: + 27 23 349 8100
The Caledon Hotel, Casino and Spa
The Caledon Casino, Hotel and Spa looks very different today from when it was first discovered in the 1600s. Caledon became internationally famous for the restorative powers of its springs, and European visitors as early as 1775 were convinced of its miraculous healing abilities. While the natural water still bubbles up from underneath the earth’s crust, today it’s not just about the mineral water.
First of all there is a casino for those who are looking for a date with Lady Luck, as well as a hotel with a range of decadent rooms. And then there is the spa, which includes a fully equipped wellness centre that offers an extensive range of treatments for full body pampering. In addition, you will find the 12 metre cascading Khoisan Pools, a lap pool, Turkish Bath, saunas and a Fridgidarium Pool.
But the Caledon Spa has not lost touch with its history and any visit should include a rendezvous in the fully restored Victorian Bath House, which was first erected in 1897. As you laze in the hot, mineral rich, brown waters, it is easy to understand why baths like these have always attracted wearied travellers looking for an escape.
In a nutshell: Luxury accommodation, fine dining and fancy spa treatments are all on offer. This could make for a decadent romantic weekend or a day outing with a difference.
Web: http://www.thecaledon.co.za/
Tel: + 27 28 214 5100
Story by Jane Barry
