Hotel Review: Vrederus Wild Trout, near Rhodes, Eastern Cape

Nick Yell finds there's plenty on offer at this delightful highland retreat, even if you're not into fly fishing

01 July 2018 - 00:00 By Nick Yell

LOCATION
On the gravel road between Rhodes and Maclear in the Eastern Cape Highlands.
ROOMS
There are two luxury stone-and-thatch cottages - both with electricity, fireplaces, sheltered lapas and outdoor braai facilities. The larger of the two, Stonefly Lodge, can sleep eight people, while the smaller Boatman's Cottage sleeps four.
STYLE
The solid and authentically replicated stone cottages fit perfectly into this highland environment and the industrial-chic finishes inside, with incredible attention to detail, are a welcome and innovative touch. While comfort is king, quality and style run a close second.FACILITIES
Although this is a fly-fishermen's paradise with a choice of large dams (motorised boats available) plus rivers and streams to fish in, you certainly don't need to fish to enjoy this natural paradise. Apart from the cottages' own facilities, there is a kid's play area with a trampoline and swings.
SERVICE
Ten out of 10. A fellow adventure rider and I were lost in the dark on a Friday night, some 60km from the nearest town, when we saw the Vrederus signboard. The Naudés not only took us in but also brought us dinner.
THE EATING
It's mainly self-catering, but there is a cosy little restaurant (The Shepherd's Cottage, booking required) on the premises. While we did not try the food there, if our impromptu dinner is anything to go by I'm sure the boerekos advertised will be very good.
THE TO-DO LIST
Fly fishing (strictly catch-and-release with barbless hooks) for wild trout is highly recommended, but there are many other things to do: 4x4 trails and mountain biking; hiking; San rock-art viewing; horse riding; bird-watching; and seeing snow in winter and wild flowers in summer.
RATES
R300 per person sharing. Specials apply for six or more.
BOOKING
Visit vrederus.co.za..

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