The Hydro at Stellenbosch
Full view
View all photos(93)93
Dining (8)
Room & Suite (3)
View prices for your travel dates
Contact accommodation for availability.
There are similar hotels available.
View allDid you already book this hotel?
About
4.5
#1 of 1 resort in StellenboschLocation
Cleanliness
Service
Value
The Hydro at Stellenbosch is South Africa's leading and preferred wellness destination. We provide an experience like no other and serve our guests with passion, pride and professionalism. We deliver personnal care to ensure that each guest fully benefits in body, mind and soul. The Hydro is a place where it is truly about you. We offer 43 years of experience in the wellness industry and focus on detoxification and relaxation delivered in packages specifically designed to achieve preventative and sustainable health. We are a natural destination encouraging the vital forces within us to heal the body, the mind and the soul.
Read more
Suggest edits to improve what we show.Improve this listing
Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Fitness Centre with Gym / Workout Room
Pool
Airport transportation
Spa
Non-smoking hotel
Laundry service
Wifi
Fitness classes
Sauna
Hot bath
Indoor pool
Outdoor pool
Heated pool
Shuttle bus service
Facial treatments
Room features
Air conditioning
Safe
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
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.
HOTEL STYLE
Luxury
Modern
Location
Ida's Valley, Stellenbosch 7602 South Africa
Getting there
Cape Town Intl Airport
28.4 km•
See all flights
Car Hire
228 Restaurants
within 10 kilometers
151Reviews5Q+A42Room tips
Reviews
Traveller rating
- 100
- 30
- 11
- 6
- 4
Time of year
Traveller type
Language
Selected filters
- Filter
- English
Popular mentions
Sort by:
Detailed Reviews
Hydro is by far my go-to place for stress and the ultimate relaxation experience. The therapists at the Hydro is definitely on another level and to have a Swedish Massage from someone who studied through the University of Stellenbosch is awesome.
I love visiting them.
the food is natural and vegan and when you go there your expectation should be to eat only fruit and veg and no meat. Everything is designed for you to heal. Not always the choices I would make at home but certainly for my benefit. For instance, they do not allow you to drink water with your meal, but this is so your body can absorb all the nutrients from the meal.... somehow there is always a method in their madness.
i do however feel that they should open the sauna and steam room as part of their free facilities and I do think they should have some type of a loyalty program if you visit more than twice per year.
overall, 10 out of 10 from me.
I love visiting them.
the food is natural and vegan and when you go there your expectation should be to eat only fruit and veg and no meat. Everything is designed for you to heal. Not always the choices I would make at home but certainly for my benefit. For instance, they do not allow you to drink water with your meal, but this is so your body can absorb all the nutrients from the meal.... somehow there is always a method in their madness.
i do however feel that they should open the sauna and steam room as part of their free facilities and I do think they should have some type of a loyalty program if you visit more than twice per year.
overall, 10 out of 10 from me.
Read more
Date of stay: September 2021
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.
For the first time after 20 years of my last visit I did a 7 day detox at Hydro again. So much had changed and for the better I must say. Renovated rooms and surroundings as well as a flexible eating plan. The vegetarian food was delicious and appealingly presented and the variety of juices is nice. The only thing that I would recommend is to have the colonic treatment included in the 7 day program or at
Least promoted already at the time of booking
Least promoted already at the time of booking
Read more
Date of stay: April 2021
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 stayed in the standard room, and the accommodation was very comfortable, with direct access to the gardens. I enjoyed the food, there was plenty and it felt very healthy. I had not expected the detox to be so tough. I was wanting to be pampered and did not enjoy that aspect enough as I was suffering from the detox. If I did it again I would stop the obvious toxins e.g. coffee, fizzy cold drinks and alcohol a week before arriving so I could enjoy the massages more.
Staff were extremely helpful and problems resolved quickly.
Staff were extremely helpful and problems resolved quickly.
Read more
Date of stay: May 2021
Value
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.
Wonderful as always! I have made a number of visits to the Hydro and it is a very special soulful place. I always leave feeling healthier and far more relaxed than when I arrived. The therapists are always very professional and the treatments are excellent. I love the hydrotherapy treatments and Connie is a very caring friendly therapist who organises this area with great efficiency. I have to mention Jodene who gave me the best lymphatic drainage massage that I have had.
The rooms are comfortable and maybe some could do with an update but I find it just charming as it is. They are always extremely clean and well maintained. I have a particular room which I request and many regulars do the same.
I love everything about it, the professional initial health checks with Mandy or Megan, the hikes in the morning with Tony, the garden run by Alan who produces wonderful organic food and has a passion for healthy soil producing excellent quality food, the lovely eco pool seating area, the lovely friendly ladies in the dining room and the the relaxing strolls with Wendy. The food is all plant based apart from the yogurt and is all of a very good quality and variety. I am always full all day but still lose a few kilos over the stay. I had a wonderful tomato dhal this stay. The buffet at lunch is always full of lovely salads and a hot dish.
The absolute only small thing I missed this stay was the desert on a Wednesday and Saturday lunch. there are so many plant based recipes for desert that its a shame that these are not served any more. It is a good chance to showcase what can be done with an avocado or cacao or other plants to make delicious and yet nutritious deserts. Over Easter it would have been lovely to have just had a cacao mousse for instance. It is a very small niggle as overall this is a very special place with wonderful staff that will always have a place in my heart.
The rooms are comfortable and maybe some could do with an update but I find it just charming as it is. They are always extremely clean and well maintained. I have a particular room which I request and many regulars do the same.
I love everything about it, the professional initial health checks with Mandy or Megan, the hikes in the morning with Tony, the garden run by Alan who produces wonderful organic food and has a passion for healthy soil producing excellent quality food, the lovely eco pool seating area, the lovely friendly ladies in the dining room and the the relaxing strolls with Wendy. The food is all plant based apart from the yogurt and is all of a very good quality and variety. I am always full all day but still lose a few kilos over the stay. I had a wonderful tomato dhal this stay. The buffet at lunch is always full of lovely salads and a hot dish.
The absolute only small thing I missed this stay was the desert on a Wednesday and Saturday lunch. there are so many plant based recipes for desert that its a shame that these are not served any more. It is a good chance to showcase what can be done with an avocado or cacao or other plants to make delicious and yet nutritious deserts. Over Easter it would have been lovely to have just had a cacao mousse for instance. It is a very small niggle as overall this is a very special place with wonderful staff that will always have a place in my heart.
Read more
Date of stay: April 2024Trip type: Travelled solo
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Â Leave your phones in your room or use the dedicated lounge. You are meant to be relaxing!
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.
To Stian and his incredible team a heartfelt thank you for the way in which you welcomed us into the beautiful and tranquil surroundings of the Hydro. This is the third time that IMISA (Institute of Mindfulness of South Africa) has booked out the Hydro for one of its retreats and I can honestly say that each time is better than the last. The well cared for space, both indoors and outdoors, provides the perfect setting to take time out from the busyness of day to day life. The friendly and helpful staff, the healthy and delicious food (and of course the cinnamon and ginger tea), the warmth of the indoor pool and the freshness and beauty of the outdoor pool left me feeling refreshed and rested. Such a treat to have spent time with you all, thank you. Barbara
Read more
Date of stay: May 2023Trip type: Travelled on business
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.
My wife and I wanted sustained and uninterrupted peace. The Hydro lived up to our expectations in every way. The ambience, staff courtesy and professional services in every department allowed us to relax and unwind. Certainly, a getaway that we will revisit.
Read more
Date of stay: June 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: All the meals are well prepared and presented. If you’re used to snacking, you might want to take...
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.
My third visit to this spa - I've seen it in all it's iterations, and this time was most disappointing. I left more stressed by all that went wrong, than when I arrived. The staff are simply not trained to competency or to handle "crisis". One staff member, after my gown was taken, expected me to leave and walk around in my towel. After much discussion and a long time I got another. Lunch was an abomination. A soggy salad made hours before lunch, another with butter beans and I don't know what, and boiled carrots and beetroot as the hot dish. The best part was a baked potato. Lastly, if you have gel nails you can't get a mani or pedi. They simply don't have time or talent. They suggested I just do the soak off and not paint. What???? The refund was tedious. Send us an email blah blah. This used to be the go to spa for good therapies and rest and relaxation and great vegetarian fare. They need to hire a chef urgently.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled with friends
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip:Â Don't go with expectations
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.
If life has become too much, if you are exhausted, tired of thinking, cooking, recovering from trauma - all the stuff life throws at you, or you simply want to indulge and reward yourself, I cannot recommend The Hydro highly enough. This is the place to just be or if you choose, be pampered and cared for, and I really do mean care. The staff, the food, the activities (should you wish to participate), the scenery and accommodations are all wonderful. A blissful week or two spent here will most certainly change your life for the better.
Read more
Date of stay: July 2022
Rooms
Location
Service
Room Tip:Â Speak to staff as to what your needs are and they will advise.
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.
I arrived at the Hydro feeling fatigued, low spirited and stressed out and I left feeling like a new person. What exquisite grounds. I loved my walks and the unbelievable gardens Staff are kind and obliging, And the treatments were possibly the best I've ever experienced.
Read more
Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
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 hydro is simply beautiful. Set in a spectacular setting, I start to relax as soon as I enter the gates. Just to sit in the gardens, listen to the birds and watch the sunset is enough. The pools are wonderful, both indoor and outdoor. The food nourishing and healthy. And the staff, caring, attentive, and so helpful. This place is a sanctuary for body, mind and soul and continues to hold a special place in my heart.
Read more
Date of stay: May 2023Trip type: Travelled on business
Value
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 basic rooms that I saw recently don't tend to have a patio. Other than that, room still looks very comfortable and the environment is so wonderful, you don't tend to spend that much time in your room anyway
"All the meals are well prepared and presented. If you’re used to snacking, you might want to take some fruit with you."Read full review
"Leave your phones in your room or use the dedicated lounge. You are meant to be relaxing!"Read full review
QueenBee wrote a tip Mar 2023
Manchester, Greater Manchester, England189 contributions79 helpful votes"Don't go with expectations "Read full review
…
ALSO KNOWN AS
the hydro at stellenbosch hotel stellenbosch, the hydro hotel stellenbosch
LOCATION
South AfricaWestern CapeStellenbosch
NUMBER OF ROOMS
54
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 HYDRO AT STELLENBOSCH - Resort Reviews (South Africa)
Frequently Asked Questions about The Hydro at Stellenbosch
Which popular attractions are close to The Hydro at Stellenbosch?
Nearby attractions include Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden (7.5 km), Rupert Museum (6.0 km), and Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden (4.5 km).
What are some of the property amenities at The Hydro at Stellenbosch?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include an indoor pool, free wifi, and a fitness centre.
Is parking available at The Hydro at Stellenbosch?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to The Hydro at Stellenbosch?
Conveniently located restaurants include Helena's Restaurant, Fat Butcher, and Stellenbosch Kitchen.
Are there opportunities to exercise at The Hydro at Stellenbosch?
Yes, guests have access to an indoor pool, a fitness centre, and a sauna during their stay.
Does The Hydro at Stellenbosch have airport transportation?
Yes, The Hydro at Stellenbosch offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are there any historical sites close to The Hydro at Stellenbosch?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Boschendal (6.6 km).
Is The Hydro at Stellenbosch accessible?
Yes, it offers reduced mobility rooms. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.