TAKE ME TO THE RIVER .... .... Zwakala River Retreat

There’s something about Zwakala River Retreat that keeps calling you back. Maybe it is the sound of the river, a rhythmic lullaby winding through the valley, shifting with the seasons. Maybe it’s the legendary beer brewed on-site, a golden elixir that somehow tastes like pure sunshine and mountain air. But if you ask anyone who has been, the true magic isn’t just in the beauty of the land or the infamous beer, it’s in the people. 

The Tooleys, the heart and soul behind Zwakala, have built something far greater than a getaway. They have created the feeling of a homecoming which welcomes everyone with an invitation to ‘come closer.’  Becca Tooley explains, ‘At Zwakala River Retreat, our family’s values shape everything we do. Connection, respect for nature and a deep love for this land influence the experiences we create. We see ourselves as custodians of this beautiful place, committed to rewilding the land and sharing its magic with others while making as little impact as possible.’

The Tooleys have been busy crafting new spaces and experiences for visitors looking for a place to reconnect to nature and each other.  Their pet-friendly, family-friendly farm cottages are perfect for those seeking rustic charm. The original Cob House remains an iconic retreat, its rustic charm inviting slow mornings and long, lazy afternoons. Legodi Cabin is a spacious riverside hideaway, The Barn has a rustic shared space and the Honey House is an intimate, sweet sanctuary. There are also five Scandinavian-style river cabins, each with an outdoor bath overlooking the Broederstroom river.  

But this autumn, Zwakala has unveiled its newest accommodation offerings: The Stables and the Noka Suite, each one thoughtfully designed to give guests a unique experience of this soulful space.  Once a home for the farm’s beloved animals, the Old Stables have undergone a transformation into accommodation combining rustic charm with modern comfort. Becca describes the newly-converted space as offering ‘two stylish and comfortable units at the heart of the farm with an open-air kitchen which invites guests to prepare meals while soaking in the sounds of the farm and enjoying the fresh country air.’ These embrace Zwakala’s signature aesthetic, blending repurposed materials with earthy textures and warm, welcoming interiors. 

If there was ever a space designed for pure indulgence, it is the Noka Suite. ‘For a truly luxurious retreat, this cabin is more than just a place to rest, it is an experience in itself,’ says Becca.  ‘Inspired by our vision of a serene riverside escape, Noka Suite embodies an apothecary-inspired design, weaving together cedar wood accents sourced from a local sawmill and natural textures that mirror the beauty of our surroundings. With large windows framing the gentle flow of the river and thoughtful touches that invite rest and rejuvenation, the Noka Suite offers a sanctuary where nature and comfort blend effortlessly.’  

‘This retreat is a cocoon where time slows down and the only real decision to make is whether to soak in the views from bed or the bath-for-two outside on the deck with the mesmerising flow of the river to restore your soul.  Once a playful torrent in summer, it takes on a quieter, more introspective mood. The water slows, turning into a mirror that reflects the copper and gold hues of the changing trees against a sky so blue it almost doesn’t seem real. The illusion holds, until a single leaf tumbles into the water, sending ripples through the glassy surface -  a reminder that even in stillness, life moves forward. It is easy to lose yourself in this dreamlike setting, to feel as though you’ve stepped into a world where time moves at its own gentle pace.’

Of course, Zwakala River Retreat isn’t just about where you sleep, it is about how you spend your days and experience the space.  Here, mornings can begin with a stroll along the meandering river where the world seems dew-kissed and quiet, broken only by birdsong. Some brave souls may take a plunge into the icy river, emerging breathless, wide-eyed and feeling utterly alive. Evenings call for a cold pint of Zwakala’s award-winning beers from the on-site microbrewery and a delicious meal around the braai fire, where conversations stretch long into the night. Becca believes that ‘every moment here is a chance to slow down, reconnect and soak in the beauty of nature … we can’t wait to welcome you.’

Whether you stay for the weekend or come back to experience each new season, one thing is for certain, you will leave with your heart a little fuller and your spirit restored. And just like the river, you will find yourself winding back here again and again. Book your stay, bring your sense of adventure, and come see for yourself why Zwakala River Retreat is more than just an escape - it is a home waiting to welcome you.

Connect on 073 113 9969 | zwakala@tooley.co.za | www.zwakalariverretreat.co.za