The Edge Mountain Retreat
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Did you already book this hotel?
Tell us so we can help you plan.
About
#2 of 2 small hotels in Hogsback
Location
Rooms
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Distinctly different! Lovely characterful, self-catering cottages, all with log fire-places, those on the edge of the cliff have some of the most spectacular views in SA. We also have B&B en-suite garden rooms. Cosy restaurant and bar with fire-places, serving delicious, mostly organic, locally grown fare. Great food and superb wines at excellent prices. 15 acres of beautiful gardens. Experience walking our acclaimed 'Labyrinth on the Edge'.
Read more
Suggest edits to improve what we show.Improve this listing
Property amenities
Free parking
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Non-smoking hotel
Room features
Kitchenette
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Mountain View
Family
Languages Spoken
Afrikaans
Location
Bluff End, Hogsback 5721 South Africa
Getting there
Port Elizabeth Airport
195.8 km•
See all flights
Car Hire
6 Restaurants
within 10 kilometers
Reviews
Traveller rating
- 83
- 75
- 22
- 9
- 2
Time of year
Traveller type
Language
Selected filters
- Filter
- English
Popular mentions
Sort by:
Detailed Reviews
My husband and I with our 11 yr old son, stayed at Tweeny's Cottage over New Year and overall, had the best stay.
We loved the location - right near the cliff edge - so the views were fantastic. It was walking distance to the Labrinth (which is well maintained, beautiful and worth a visit), Bluff Experience hike and Cliff Edge View. We also loved having access to the big open, lawn space in front of our accommodation, to enjoy frisbee, cricket and other games. It was peaceful and restful and so lovely to be in nature with lots of bird life.
The cottage was fairly well equipped - with all you needed for cooking, plus an outdoor braai area and some firewood provided for the indoor fireplace.
We did however, feel it could have helped to have some floor mats in the bathrooms and inside the entrance doors - as the floors got very wet with the comings & goings from the shower and from outside - making the rest of the spaces a bit dirty.
It also would be better to move the big, black dustbin area from directly outside the back door (which leads to the best views of the cliffs) to an area around the corner and out of site. Also, the main outdoor entertainment & braai area does not overlook the views - it's at the front of the house - which I imagine is to protect from the bad weather?. In any case, perhaps it would be nice if they paved the back door area and added a couple of lounge chairs, so one can enjoy sunsets overlooking the views. Luckily we had camping chairs with us, so could sit at the back, on the lawn and watch the sunset views over the cliffs.
We also should mention the bugs. It is Farm country and we're in nature, so we understand there are bugs. So, we kept the doors and windows closed mostly - especially when we weren't there and at night. However, despite this, every morning, we woke to numerous dead bugs on the floors of the kitchen and lounge area. Somehow they were getting in - under the doors perhaps? Nothing a quick sweep couldn't fix - so, overall this didn't bother us too much.
We would definitely recommend these places and would go back.
We loved the location - right near the cliff edge - so the views were fantastic. It was walking distance to the Labrinth (which is well maintained, beautiful and worth a visit), Bluff Experience hike and Cliff Edge View. We also loved having access to the big open, lawn space in front of our accommodation, to enjoy frisbee, cricket and other games. It was peaceful and restful and so lovely to be in nature with lots of bird life.
The cottage was fairly well equipped - with all you needed for cooking, plus an outdoor braai area and some firewood provided for the indoor fireplace.
We did however, feel it could have helped to have some floor mats in the bathrooms and inside the entrance doors - as the floors got very wet with the comings & goings from the shower and from outside - making the rest of the spaces a bit dirty.
It also would be better to move the big, black dustbin area from directly outside the back door (which leads to the best views of the cliffs) to an area around the corner and out of site. Also, the main outdoor entertainment & braai area does not overlook the views - it's at the front of the house - which I imagine is to protect from the bad weather?. In any case, perhaps it would be nice if they paved the back door area and added a couple of lounge chairs, so one can enjoy sunsets overlooking the views. Luckily we had camping chairs with us, so could sit at the back, on the lawn and watch the sunset views over the cliffs.
We also should mention the bugs. It is Farm country and we're in nature, so we understand there are bugs. So, we kept the doors and windows closed mostly - especially when we weren't there and at night. However, despite this, every morning, we woke to numerous dead bugs on the floors of the kitchen and lounge area. Somehow they were getting in - under the doors perhaps? Nothing a quick sweep couldn't fix - so, overall this didn't bother us too much.
We would definitely recommend these places and would go back.
Read more
Date of stay: December 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We only stayed for one night, and if you only have one night in Hogsback this is the place to go. There are separate cottages with the most spectacular views. The cottage we stayed in was also equipped with an outdoor shower and bath - counted 5 waterfalls while enjoying some bubbles with some bubbly. Restaurant was amazing but book in advance. Would highly recommend
Read more
Date of stay: December 2021
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Â Heavens above is magical
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We have stayed at The Edge on several occasions and keep going back because it is truly a place we feel at one with nature
The gardens at The Edge is always an incredible source of inspiration and relaxation and because it is open to visitors staying in the resort, we get to walk everywhere.
The cottage ( Stargazer) we always stay in is very comfortable and has a beautiful view of the country side - it doesn't matter when we go - it always makes us feel relaxed and at home.
Because The Edge allows us (always arranged beforehand) to bring our little staffy puppy with, The Edge will remain our top choice when staying in the Hogsback area. Hogsback is a dogs' haven.
We like that the restaurant is on the property and that we can purchase any essentials (e.g. firewood, freshly baked bread) right there, and no need to leave during our stay.
The staff are always friendly and happy - so it really feels like coming home every time we come to visit.
We always recommend The Edge to any of our friends and family when they want to do a road trip until the Amatola interior!
The gardens at The Edge is always an incredible source of inspiration and relaxation and because it is open to visitors staying in the resort, we get to walk everywhere.
The cottage ( Stargazer) we always stay in is very comfortable and has a beautiful view of the country side - it doesn't matter when we go - it always makes us feel relaxed and at home.
Because The Edge allows us (always arranged beforehand) to bring our little staffy puppy with, The Edge will remain our top choice when staying in the Hogsback area. Hogsback is a dogs' haven.
We like that the restaurant is on the property and that we can purchase any essentials (e.g. firewood, freshly baked bread) right there, and no need to leave during our stay.
The staff are always friendly and happy - so it really feels like coming home every time we come to visit.
We always recommend The Edge to any of our friends and family when they want to do a road trip until the Amatola interior!
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: August 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Restaurant and bar was excellent.
Excellent location.
Cottage was not clean (a lot of spider-webs and bloodstain bedding)
When asked to clean they said due to Covid they do not clean during the stay.
When asked for fresh towels they literally dropped it off in a black bag at the front door.
Excellent location.
Cottage was not clean (a lot of spider-webs and bloodstain bedding)
When asked to clean they said due to Covid they do not clean during the stay.
When asked for fresh towels they literally dropped it off in a black bag at the front door.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2021
Value
Rooms
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our fourth visit to Hogsback, and second stay at The Edge. You come here for peace and quiet, not excitement and luxury. The chalets are old but clean, and some of them have breathtaking views over the gorge. The amenities are basic but more than adequate. Self-catering is possible (kitchenette, barbecue, basic utensils, etc.) but the restaurant food is excellent and you will be missing out if you do not have at least one dinner! Bland old hake was so deliciously prepared we ate it twice. A good selection on the wine list at acceptable prices.
The natural beauty is spectacular, the silence soothing, you could probably stay here and write a book. Or paint some pictures. Or write some poetry. Without previous experience!
Two gripes: Avoid trying to walk the labyrinth when day visitors are about. They have no idea how to do it and it spoils the spirituality that you can experience much better alone at sunrise. Secondly, I suppose there must be a good reason for it but the barbed wire fencing that has gone up around the cottages is a really bad surprise. Some would say Negative Energy and Dark Karma!
If you are willing to put up with the above, and the horrendous roads (so what else is new in this country these days) and just chill - you will come back again and again.
The natural beauty is spectacular, the silence soothing, you could probably stay here and write a book. Or paint some pictures. Or write some poetry. Without previous experience!
Two gripes: Avoid trying to walk the labyrinth when day visitors are about. They have no idea how to do it and it spoils the spirituality that you can experience much better alone at sunrise. Secondly, I suppose there must be a good reason for it but the barbed wire fencing that has gone up around the cottages is a really bad surprise. Some would say Negative Energy and Dark Karma!
If you are willing to put up with the above, and the horrendous roads (so what else is new in this country these days) and just chill - you will come back again and again.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2021
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A superb Hogsback getaway - A really lovely place that we look forward to returning to. Well equipped unit. Make sure to make no noise as its a peaceful quiet place and you could get booted . Much better option to go self-catering as the food is not mega value for money, as the lodge or in town.
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: June 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our entire three days were spent mostly indoors, with slashing rain, thunder and lightning, and interrupted services (but hey, it’s South Africa, eh?). Despite those conditions we had a fabulous time.
Everyone at The Edge was delightful and helpful. We learned of the history of Hogsback from one of the owners, Wouter, and played with his pack of doggies. Stammi at the front desk made the reservation procedure easy, both before and after arriving. Chef Vuvu cooked the best pork ribs we’ve had in South Africa and served them with almond polenta, a perfect pairing to soak up the rib sauce. Our waiter, Lungi, anticipated our needs and explained the secret of the restaurant’s deep purple apricot jam. The head of Maintenance, Martin, brought kindling and an extra lamp (for our aging eyes) and explained the propane heater, without which our stay would have been very cold.
We stayed in the Heavens Above cottage, where we could look out into swirling fog against the backdrop of a vast, intensely green canyon and, if we wished, take an outdoor shower at the edge of the cliff. During the days we explored Greater Hogsback’s restaurants and shops, driving over some very rough roads which seem to go unmaintained and which are best suited to SUVs or cars with a high wheelbase.
Thanks to all the staff, and we look forward with anticipation to our visit next year.
Everyone at The Edge was delightful and helpful. We learned of the history of Hogsback from one of the owners, Wouter, and played with his pack of doggies. Stammi at the front desk made the reservation procedure easy, both before and after arriving. Chef Vuvu cooked the best pork ribs we’ve had in South Africa and served them with almond polenta, a perfect pairing to soak up the rib sauce. Our waiter, Lungi, anticipated our needs and explained the secret of the restaurant’s deep purple apricot jam. The head of Maintenance, Martin, brought kindling and an extra lamp (for our aging eyes) and explained the propane heater, without which our stay would have been very cold.
We stayed in the Heavens Above cottage, where we could look out into swirling fog against the backdrop of a vast, intensely green canyon and, if we wished, take an outdoor shower at the edge of the cliff. During the days we explored Greater Hogsback’s restaurants and shops, driving over some very rough roads which seem to go unmaintained and which are best suited to SUVs or cars with a high wheelbase.
Thanks to all the staff, and we look forward with anticipation to our visit next year.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2020
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The beautifully appointed cottages on the very edge of the valley make this a special place. The secluded outdoor bath tub and shower had me wishing I was 40 years younger.
The restaurant where I celebrated my birthday at 20:20;20hrs on 20th 02, 2020 will be remembered for the rest of my life.
Visit the Edge, it is unique.
The restaurant where I celebrated my birthday at 20:20;20hrs on 20th 02, 2020 will be remembered for the rest of my life.
Visit the Edge, it is unique.
Read more
Date of stay: February 2020
Value
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wonderful retreat for the weekend, within walking distance to a world-class restaurant and jaw-dropping mountain top views. Getting there in the rain and mist was both magical and a little frightening. We were glad to have a 4x4 on the slippy curvy road, although I'm sure careful driving in a non-4x4 would also have been fine.
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: April 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The staff, the grounds, rooms, rates and Food!!
Hogsback is an incredible break... The people top this off. T
HE only place to stay.
We had problems with hot water for two nights and the Management refused anything less than a free nights accommodation and breakfast on the house!
Friggin awesome!
Eastern Cape hospitality at it's finest.
Only thing is their menu prices are pushing it a lil, but hell the accommodations cheap as.
Food in January was exceptional this time round a lil bland and lacking adventure.
I had to play with chili salt and pepper to get the flavor up. Sambals should always be separate in curries. Rice in most meals on the side too, and not underneath... Bolognaise not moved into pasta with parmesan.And the tomato salsa at present it's incredibly vinegary.( Kinda killed my Mexican brekkie and fluffed my chicken curry a bit). The peri Peri livers with egg, should have some zest too! Still damn good nonetheless!
Overall, always a win, I'm very particular about my food and have run kitchens so take with a pinch of salt.
See you next year.
Hogsback is an incredible break... The people top this off. T
HE only place to stay.
We had problems with hot water for two nights and the Management refused anything less than a free nights accommodation and breakfast on the house!
Friggin awesome!
Eastern Cape hospitality at it's finest.
Only thing is their menu prices are pushing it a lil, but hell the accommodations cheap as.
Food in January was exceptional this time round a lil bland and lacking adventure.
I had to play with chili salt and pepper to get the flavor up. Sambals should always be separate in curries. Rice in most meals on the side too, and not underneath... Bolognaise not moved into pasta with parmesan.And the tomato salsa at present it's incredibly vinegary.( Kinda killed my Mexican brekkie and fluffed my chicken curry a bit). The peri Peri livers with egg, should have some zest too! Still damn good nonetheless!
Overall, always a win, I'm very particular about my food and have run kitchens so take with a pinch of salt.
See you next year.
Read more
Date of stay: December 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
"Consider chalets on the edge of the cliffs - Sugarbird is however tucked away between huge trees and beautiful gardens"Read full review
"Built on The Bluff many rooms have views of the surrounding mountains, some of the gorgeous gardens, there is a great variety."Read full review
…
LOCATION
South AfricaEastern CapeHogsback
NUMBER OF ROOMS
20
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your ListingTHE EDGE MOUNTAIN RETREAT - UPDATED 2025 Hotel Reviews (Hogsback, South Africa)
Frequently Asked Questions about The Edge Mountain Retreat
Which popular attractions are close to The Edge Mountain Retreat?
Nearby attractions include Hogsback Adventures (2.2 km), Hogsback Arboretum (2.7 km), and Crystal Corner (0.6 km).
What are some of the property amenities at The Edge Mountain Retreat?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and free parking.
What food & drink options are available at The Edge Mountain Retreat?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at The Edge Mountain Retreat?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to The Edge Mountain Retreat?
Conveniently located restaurants include The Edge, Happy Hogs, and The Touraco Table.
Does The Edge Mountain Retreat have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the mountain view available here.