“If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.” Established in 1739 this self-catering resort, with Victorian-style stone buildings, maintains an old world charm in a scenic, rural setting.
Located on the West Coast Way Wild Route
Find The Baths on the West Coast Way Wild Route
There’s something about being submerged in water that brings you joy. With the current drought in Cape Town, I’ve missed those long baths on cold rainy evenings. I was therefore very excited to visit a place that’s been on my to-do list for a while. The Baths Natural Hot Springs, in Citrusdal, is a privately owned resort offering both self-catering chalets and campsites. Guests have use of the hot mineral spring water baths, Jacuzzis, and the hot and cold water swimming pools. Naturally, this just meant that you spend most of my time hopping from one water source to the next. The mountain rock pool was by far my favourite – it’s hard not to feel at peace lying in a natural rock pool of warm water with the view of the mountains in front of you. For those blissful moments, forget about work and responsibilities.
The resort offers 35 self-catering flats and chalets for both big and small groups. They are all air-conditioned, and some even come equipped with their own Jacuzzi. We had beautiful weather on our first night so we decided to make use of the braai facilities. We enjoyed a glass of wine (And by glass I mean bottle), and spent a relaxing evening outside. The following morning we were greeted with a wonderful storm and some much-needed rain. Once the rain had subsided we took a walk past the hiking trails and through the campsite. After that, it was another day of water activities – which, in my world, involved a lot of sitting and doing nothing – a luxury I don’t often afford myself.
The Baths are breathtakingly beautiful without being pretentious. Ensconced in nature, you are forced to take a break from your usually busy life to wind down and relax. I’m writing this now, on my final evening, after enjoying a delicious dinner at their onsite restaurant. There’s still another hour or two before the sun goes down, so I’m going to stop writing… after all, there’s a hot spring calling my name!
Facilities on offer at The Baths Natural Hot Springs
Accommodation includes 16 chalets and 19 flats with air conditioning, self-contained kitchens and braai areas.
There are 25 well-shaded caravan and camping sites with ablution facilities and all have electrical points.
Hot and cold water swimming pools.
Stunning hot mineral spring water pools nestled in the trees with steady streams and small waterfalls cascading down the side of the mountain.
Two hiking trails into the mountains with views over the Olifants River Valley.
Fully licensed restaurant, a bar and outdoor deck where patrons can relax with a drink. MacGregors’ has an excellent wine list and offers choices ranging from breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Trampolines, tennis, pool tables, and play area for kids.
The Baths is located on the West Coast Way Wild Route
Open 7 Days a week
Distance from Cape Town: 190.7km
Where: N7
Contact: +27 (0)22 921 8026 | [email protected] | www.thebaths.co.za