“In a cottage in a wood, a little man at the window stood, saw a rabbit hopping by, knocking at the door. “Help me! Help me! Help!” He said, “Before the hunter shoots me dead!” “Come little rabbit come to me, happy we shall be.” This classic Girl Guides’ song immediately came to mind the day we discovered the Arum Lily Cottages.
Just 90 minutes from Cape Town, the Arum Lily Cottages are 6 luxury wood cabins built around a central, fish-filled dam. Nestled between mountains and the orchards of a working fruit farm, the cottages are a perfect winter or summer break away for couples, young families or friends.
Equipped for both winter snuggling and summer loving, guests can use the outside braai, canoes or soak in the heated, deck jacuzzis while overlooking the reflective dam.
Our Stays
We’ve visited on 3 occasions, having explored 3 of the cabins. First, with my brother and sister in law and their friend, well-known American trumpeter – Gordan Vernick.
The second visit was just Al-John and myself. The third visit was with our Swiss friends who were visiting South Africa to see family.
On the occasion of our first stay, we relaxed into the evening with a treasure of delicious red wines, sourced from the best of the Western Cape. Our second visit centered around the wood-fired hot tub. We also put a large pot of Osso Bucco on to stew before night fall. For our last visit, we stayed on dry land and used the braai. Interestingly, this was the only time the mosquito’s bothered us. Luckily, each cabin is equipped with Peaceful Sleep (insect repellant).
Our evenings were spent strolling around the damn or gliding across the dam in the little canoe, gin & t in hand. The farmer’s dog may suddenly appear and join the festivities as the setting sun casts a warm orange glow across the mountain, ricochets light onto the surface of the water.
The Functionality of the Cottages
I’ve consistently been impressed by how well-equipped the cottages are with the kitchen remaining a standout feature. With a large fridge that easily stores our pre-cooked meals and sparkling water (I never travel without a 6-pack!). It also comes with almost every utensil you could possibly need for meal preparation.
One tiny quirk I’ve noticed over time is the absence of a roller towel in the kitchen – a minor detail that stands out simply because everything else is so well-provided for and (full disclosure) because I’m a bit obsessed with roller-towels.
I also appreciate the abundance of electrical outlets throughout the cottage. As a tech-loving traveler, I’m often juggling multiple devices that need charging, so having plenty of accessible power points is always a welcome convenience.
Three-Bedrooms
The sleeping arrangements are comfortable and well-thought-out. Each Arum Lily cabin has a unique lay out with 2 opposing bedrooms, or some with two stories, some with 2 bedrooms upstairs and one downstairs. Each unique configuration allows you to pick the cabin that would best suit your guests.
In Cabin 2, the upstairs bedroom was spacious with large bed and open plan bathroom. I especially appreciated the generous counter space in the bathroom, which allowed me to unpack my toiletries and feel at home.
The beds were dressed with clean, fresh linen. I was particularly grateful for the mosquito nets – a thoughtful touch that ensured peaceful, undisturbed sleep.
Lasting Impressions
Cleanliness is always high on my list of priorities, and Arum Lily Cottages does not disappoint. Each cabin is impeccably maintained, with no trace of previous guests – exactly how I like it. It was evident that great care had been taken in preparing the cottage for new arrivals.
Arum Lily Cottages is one of those rare finds that combines the comforts of home with the charm of a getaway. We haven’t been back in a few years and are definitely looking forward to returning.
Arum Lily Cottage Rates
The rates are between R2250 – R3950 per night for 2 adults up to 6 adults.