Kwelanga Country Retreat

Kwelanga Country Retreat

No 5 Beach Road Hansmoeskraal, George 6529 South Africa
Traveller (32)
Room & Suite (12)
View over ocean
Pool & Beach (3)

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About

#13 of 28 B&Bs in George
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Value
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality

Kwelanga Country Retreat is an excellent choice for travellers visiting George, offering a romantic environment alongside many helpful amenities designed to enhance your stay.

Guest rooms offer a kitchenette, and Kwelanga Country Retreat makes getting online easy as free wifi is available.

In addition, guests can enjoy a pool and free breakfast during their visit. As an added convenience, there is free parking available to guests.

While in George be sure to experience nearby Italian restaurants such as Pappa G's Trattoria.

Plus, during your trip, don't forget to check out an art gallery, such as Cape Palette Art Gallery.

Enjoy your stay in George!

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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Wifi
Pool
Free breakfast
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Shuttle bus service
Non-smoking hotel
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Room features
Kitchenette
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
3.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Hidden Gem
Business
Traveller rating
  • 34
  • 11
  • 0
  • 0
  • 3
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Detailed Reviews
Sharon S wrote a review Oct 2014
Johannesburg, South Africa
4.0 of 5 bubbles
We only stayed for a night but I wished it was longer. The Hosts were lovely and very obliging. The little log cabin was modern, neat and clean with a awesome view. We took a lovely walk on the grounds even though it was a rainy day. I would really recommend a weekend at this lovely lodge. Just 5 km outside George it was perfect location for an early morning flight back to Jhb.
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Date of stay: October 2014
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled with family
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.
Melissa V wrote a review Jul 2014
Addo, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We arrived 22:00 in the evening and Mark still welcomed us with a smile.
We went to our room and immediately knew that this is our kind of place.
The room had an open lounge with a kitchen; two bed rooms and a bathroom with a nice shower. Everything was just beautiful and nicely decorated; slept like a baby on that bed.
You just feel at home and relaxed. They also put the air-con on, so the whole place was warm and cosy. After that we went to dinner and we just loved the dining area, all wood and the view with the Blue Wildebeest walking around, loved it. The food was good; breakfast and dinner. We loved everything and want to say thank you to Mark, Petra and everyone that made our stay memorable. We'll definitely recommend you to our friends and family.

Kind regards; Melissa & Chris
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Date of stay: June 2014
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip 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.
CXEmP wrote a review Aug 2014
South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oceans vista, wildebeests grazing, eagle cruising , bunny hopping happily around, piece and quiet, what a beautiful place !
We enjoined it so much, outdoors and in the lodge , very cosy by the fire. Best steaks ever ! Thank you Mark and Petra for your hospitality, we will bring the mountain bikes in summer.
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Date of stay: August 2014
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: We stayed in a family chalet, my daughter would actually like to move in for good :-) that how...
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.
margrun wrote a review Jan 2018
Stockholm, Sweden
1.0 of 5 bubbles
SHORT STORY
The place is practically worn down and abandoned. We didn’t get the agreed and prepaid number of rooms on arrival, and the manager (Mark) threatened to CALL THE POLICE if we didn’t pay for an additional room that we needed due to this.

LONG STORY
We stayed 7 adults and 2 kids during four nights in Jan 2018.

When we arrived there was no one there with knowledge about our booking. There was barely anyone working at all in the place. Despite having gotten a confirmation for FOUR cabins from the manager (Mark) via email, there were only two cabins arranged for us.

From our email confirmation:
———-
Hi

We can accommodate you for the dates required, we can go ahead with the booking if you wish.

Kind regards
Mark

Hi again
We are interested to make à booking.
Check in 2 Jan, check out 6 Jan ( 4 nights)
One family Cabin 2 adults and 2 kids
One single cabin, 2 persons
One single cabin 2 persons
One single cabin 1 person
Total 7 adults and 2 children ( age 6 and 8 )
——-

We managed to get one more cabin, but were told that we would have to pay for the extra cabin. We called Mark to clear the confusion. His argument was that we would fit all 9 into two cabins by sleeping on an old and worn down couch (see picture). When we questioned this he threatened to call the police!! What type of hotel manager does that to their guests?! So we were forced to pay more than what was agreed in our email confirmation for one less cabin than agreed.

Besides the horrible, arrogant and very hostile treatment from Mark there were several other problems with the place:
- It felt abandoned, there was barely any staff or other guests there
- There is no restaurant (there is one, but like most other things, it was completely abandoned)
- There is no bar (there is one, but no one working in it)
- The cabins and their equipment are very worn down (see pictures)
- The WiFi access is extremely limited and doesn’t work in the cabins
- They did not accept credit cards, only cash (and no, there is no atm there)

Where there any good things? I guess a nice view and a friendly dog.

STAY AWAY!
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Date of stay: January 2018Trip type: Travelled with family
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.
Anelene2014 wrote a review Feb 2014
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
1.0 of 5 bubbles
Mark, the Manager is the rudest person and did not help at all with the booking request. TERRIBLE SERVICE. If this is how he treats potential customers, i am amazed that they even get customers... If there is special running, the person, especially the manager should know what the special is and not be unsure of the standard breakfast cost or unsure of the standard dinner cost. I am disgusted with him and will not be travelling to Kwelanga due to this, based on principle.
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Date of stay: February 2014
1.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip 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.
Response from Mark_Kwelanga, Manager at Kwelanga Country Retreat
Responded 16 Mar 2014
Dear Madam I feel so terribly sorry that you feel that way. I do however remember your call vividly and in fact is is you that was rude. I did after all, explain to you that I was in the middle of serving lunch to guests that were at Kwelanga at the time. I did however take the time to explain to you, in detail, how to go about getting all the information required regarding your "free voucher" I explained that if you sent an email to " voucher@kwelanga.co.za " you would immediately receive an email response with all the rules, menus and pricing of the "free weekend" You are still welcome to test this. We have this process in place so as to alleviate the bottlenecks that happen when one gets around 100 - 150 calls per day regarding free weekend vouchers. Our system is clear and instant and understandable. As for rudeness, the facts speak for themselves madam. you simply cannot claim that your bad booking experience was any fault of mine or Kwelanga's - You DID NOT follow the simple procedure as explained. 1) You refused to use the system as directed. 2) You tried to force me into a conversation I did not have time for and proceeded to shout at me down the phone when you could not get your way. 3) You shouted at the top of your voice that you would be making my life difficult and that I would regret not talking to you.(on speakerphone none the less) the only thing I regret Madam, is that you can abuse Tripadvisor to this extent. Kwelanga's customers are ALWAYS very happy with the way we treat them. Yours is a malicious attempt to make good on your threats on the phone.Neither my staff or I deserve the abusive manner in which you spoke to me. We will not tolerate such rudeness and YOU will definitely not tell us how to run our business. The next time you get a "freebie" I suggest you take the time to read the conditions and follow the CLEAR instructions. TRY and be pleasant and understanding when calling. Perhaps then you would be pleasantly surprised at the lengths people will go to in order to help and please you!! I see that this is your first and only review, how sad that you would spend the time to join Tripadvisor, just to continue in this negative behavior. It is a pity you will never get to experience Kwelanga, I feel sorry for you. I am however, glad for myself and my staff that we will not be seeing you here! Kind Regards Mark
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jess8027 wrote a review Jan 2007
UK
1.0 of 5 bubbles
An absolute disaster of a holiday! A misleading website promising fantastic accomodation with fully equipped self catering units (since when does a hotplate consitute a well equipped kitchen, try cooking your christmas turkey on it! Fortunately they did offer to do this in their ovens).

Arriving with two families of 9 people for a christmas get together, planning to cook our christmas dinner and eat it watching the fantastic sunsets. We discovered the most basic accomodation, uncomfortable beds, leaking gas heaters, boiling hot to freezing cold showers, grumpy hostess who objected to any basic request we made which included a bowl to put a salad in and extra tea towels. The restaurant was closed most nights during our stay, which we were not forwarned about. As the kitchen was not equipped with an oven and during holiday season where most shops were closed or low on supplies this led to us having to be imaginative when producing meals.

The website misleads you to believe that you are walking distance to the sea and fishing areas - neglecting to say this is only possible if you are a highly skilled rock climber and have a very long fishing line. It is not possible for you to walk in the grounds as fear of being attacked by wildebeest was high (as experienced on one occasion).

Lounges were uncomfortable and TV is set so high neck strain becomes unavoidable, made all the worst by having to stay in due to bad weather.

Good points: beautiful view and Tinker the dog who paid morning visits to check up on how the stay was going.
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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.
Response from rallylady, New Owner at Kwelanga Country Retreat
Responded 17 Apr 2009
This happened before we bought Kwelanga. Hope it does happen while we own Kwelanga.
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ammie7 wrote a review Jun 2014
Port Elizabeth, South Africa
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We decided to go to Kwelanga Country Retreat and it was indeed the best choice we could have made. The service we received was exceptional. I dealt mostly with Petra via emails and phone calls and she was quick to reply and help me. The hospitality is amazing! Mark and Petra are really the best hosts you will ever have and they are friendly and passionate about their work. The food was so delicious and fresh. We had the best group of people who also enjoyed the weekend with us. The log cabin chalets are very clean and there is a little bit of everything that you need. The view from out the chalet is breath-taking. The wildebeest roam freely and is quite nice to look at with the sea in the background. Kwelanga will definitely be seeing us again and again. Thank you for making it a weekend to remember! Renier and Amoré
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Date of stay: June 2014
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: I think all the chalets are equipped with the same things, so you will be satisfied with all of...
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.
Victor W wrote a review Jan 2016
East Grinstead, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Having read a poor 2015 review about Kwelanga Lodge we were a bit apprehensive but then realised that the reviewer had not even stayed at the lodge! This should not be allowed by Tripadvisor.
On arrival we were very pleasantly surprised at the facilities, the location and the hospitality provided by the managers Petra and Mark. In fact all the staff were very nice.

The self catering description is a bit misleading because the site has an excellent restaurant with a fantastic verandah and they provide a really good breakfast. Lunches and dinners are only for group bookings only.

There is a herd of of semi-wild wilderbeast that wonder around the site and are interesting to observe. There is no danger if you just walkaround them.
From the site there is a route down to the rocks which will take about 20 minutes.
Kwelanga is also an excellent base to explore George, Mussel Bay and other areas on the Garden Route.

The rooms were clean, fresh and roomy. It's obvious that a lot of care has been taken by the management to make your stay as pleasant and comfortable as possible.

Our original booking was for 2 nights but by the evening of our first day we fell in love with the place and booked a 3rd night. We'll be back next year!

PS. There is no WiFi in the chalets but is freely available in the reception lounge area.
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Date of stay: January 2016
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
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.
Ajay S wrote a review Jan 2016
Johannesburg, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
It was nice stay at Kwelanga - Petra and Mark is very nice Host.
Kwelanga Chalets are very neat and Clean with Nice overlooked view of Nature and Sea.

We will again want to visit this place and Stay here .
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Date of stay: December 2015
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
4.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with friends
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.
Julie B wrote a review Dec 2015
Cape Town, South Africa
4.0 of 5 bubbles
We spent 2 nights here, love:
the cabin, the views, the accommodation, the hospitality.....a little oasis away from the maddening crowds of December but also close enough to pop out to go and do the touristy things in the area, or go to the beach, go out to dinner.
But the best is to stay here, swim in the pool, watch the sunsets and have your own braai in the firepit or on your own stoep.

We love the place! And would definitely come back here!
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Date of stay: December 2015
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: All rooms have the most amazing sea views
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.
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John W wrote a tip Mar 2017
London, United Kingdom1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"I stayed and recommend Lodge No 2 though others too have far reaching sea views.."
Read full review
Andreas S wrote a tip Feb 2017
2 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The 5 sleeper cabins have the best views!"
Read full review
traveltogether67 wrote a tip Oct 2016
31 contributions6 helpful votes
4.0 of 5 bubbles
"Rooms further from the restaurant are quieter."
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PAMARU wrote a tip Jul 2016
Cape Town, South Africa22 contributions24 helpful votes
4.0 of 5 bubbles
"Take a walk around the property , its beautiful"
Read full review
Julie B wrote a tip Dec 2015
Cape Town, South Africa55 contributions9 helpful votes
4.0 of 5 bubbles
"All rooms have the most amazing sea views"
Read full review
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the George area.
LOCATION
South AfricaWestern CapeGeorge
NUMBER OF ROOMS
8
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.
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KWELANGA COUNTRY RETREAT - B&B Reviews (George, South Africa)

Frequently Asked Questions about Kwelanga Country Retreat
Which popular attractions are close to Kwelanga Country Retreat?
Nearby attractions include Outeniqua Transport Museum (5.7 km), Map of Africa Viewpoint (7.7 km), and Outeniqua Pass (7.3 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Kwelanga Country Retreat?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a pool.
What food & drink options are available at Kwelanga Country Retreat?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Kwelanga Country Retreat?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Kwelanga Country Retreat?
Conveniently located restaurants include The Hussar Grill George, Nina's Cafe, and 101 Meade Street Restaurant.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Kwelanga Country Retreat?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Are there any historical sites close to Kwelanga Country Retreat?
Many travellers enjoy visiting The Old Slave Tree (6.1 km).
Is Kwelanga Country Retreat accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.
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