Ranked: Your Top 10 Bucket-list Stays
Bea Punt, 17 December 2025
Reading time: 6 minutes
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, we all know accommodation is more than just a bed and a lamp. And all year long, our platform has been buzzing with unique stays that keep topping everyone’s bucket lists. From treehouses to desert pods, our social media audience has spoken! We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 must-book stays that made you click ‘Add to Wishlist’ this past year. So, if you’re looking for some inspiration or looking to upgrade your next adventure, scroll down and have a look at our ultimate local travel list.
De Nest – Clear Glass Tree Cabin
Montagu, Western Cape
This spot went viral for obvious reasons – the novelty of being completely immersed in nature without sacrificing luxury. The clear glass dome structure offers 360-degree views of the surrounding tree canopy, allowing you to feel entirely exposed yet perfectly private. The ultimate hero facility? The separate outdoor bath set beneath fairy lights, offering a truly unforgettable, starlit soak, perfect for a romantic escape.
Reverie Kalahari Pod
Hardap, Namibia
This unique stay is designed for complete exclusivity. Guests rave about the luxury pod design and the incredible sense of solitude. Its private plunge pool overlooking a waterhole guarantees you a front-row seat to giraffes, oryx, and other wildlife visiting right outside your door. The lounge has comfy seating, and a fireplace keeps the pod warm during the colder months. Outside is a spacious patio with braai facilities, sun loungers and a splash pool to enjoy on those hot summer days.
Ballots Bay Treehouse
George, Western Cape
This property captured imaginations for blending the magic of a treehouse stay with the serenity of a remote beach escape. It’s a haven for nature lovers seeking a private-cabin feel, yet still want to wake up to the sound of crashing waves and salty, fresh air. The hot tub on the deck adds a romantic twist and is perfectly positioned to watch the sea and river mouth. For those wanting to explore, the area offers numerous walking and hiking trails through Magic Forest, which also has scenic picnic spots.
Boomhuis Farm Stay
George, Western Cape
The moment this bucket-list stay was featured on our platforms, our followers fell in love with the seamless architectural blend of nature and ultra-modern design. The treehouse-style design, at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains, ensures floor-to-ceiling forest views from every angle. Furthermore, it highlights luxury with its wood-fired hot tub and double outdoor shower, plus its off-grid solar power system ensures your nature escape is uninterrupted. If you’re looking for a unique getaway on the Garden Route without surrendering luxury, this is the one for you!
Serenity Mountain and Forest Lodge
Malelane, Mpumalanga
A favourite for couples seeking tranquillity near the Kruger region. The property’s fame lies in its secluded setting, nestled within an ancient riverine forest. The lodge is located on a World Heritage site and is a must for birdwatching enthusiasts or lepidopterists. Guests particularly adore the natural elements, especially the opportunity to explore marked trails leading to cascading waterfalls and pristine natural rock pools, perfect for a rejuvenating dip in the African bush.
Mountain Magic 2
Wilderness, Western Cape
This stay resonated with those who appreciate creative, sustainable design and breathtaking scenery. Built from converted shipping containers, it offers stylish accommodation with panoramic views of the sea, mountains, and rivers, and self-catering facilities like air-conditioning, a kitchen, Wi-Fi and a lounge. The hot tub on the deck provides the ideal spot to sip a sundowner while soaking in the Garden Route’s epic coastline.
The Loft @ Glenogle Farm
Magoebaskloof, Limpopo
This forest hideaway needs to be on every couple’s and honeymooners’ bucket list. Get ready to be enchanted by the perfect blend of romance and natural beauty, nestled deep in the pine forest of Magoebaskloof. The best features include an indoor fireplace and the stunning views of the private dam, where guests can enjoy trout fishing or simply relax in peace.
Vicbay House
Victoria Bay, Western Cape
This bucket-list stay became a favourite among the ultimate beach lovers due to its unparalleled location. It is a luxurious family-friendly villa with direct beachfront access, literally steps from one of South Africa’s premier surf spots. This house can accommodate eight guests in four bedrooms and four bathrooms, and the private swimming pool offers uninterrupted sea views so you can invite the beach vibes into your home.
Melozhori Treehouse
Bonnievale, Western Cape
This unique treehouse-style cabin is situated in the Melozhori Private Game Reserve, just two hours from Cape Town. Guests will love the sophisticated amenities like the wood-fired hot tub, pizza oven and boma in combination with the raw and natural beauty of the bush. Spend your days relaxing in the hammock, spotting free-roaming wildlife across the plains, or watching the night sky light up with a thousand stars in this secluded spot.
MBIZI lagoon house
Fisherhaven, Western Cape
This property gained favour with groups and families seeking a coastal base. Situated on the Fisherhaven Lagoon near Hermanus, the size and design appealed to many, but the feature that stood out the most is the infinity swimming pool overlooking the lagoon, which also offers the opportunity to view flamingos and the famous wild horse herd of the Bot River area wandering past your terrace. The wooden deck surrounds the pool with hanging chairs, a dining table and a braai to create those family memories during your getaway.
Sunset Dome
Tulbagh, Western Cape
The dome-style stays really took centre stage on our bucket list this year! The Sunset Dome is situated on the water’s edge on the beautiful La Bruyère Farm and offers a secluded, off-the-grid stay, famous for its immersive natural setting. Fall in love with the blend of adventurous living with home comforts. The dam-facing outdoor bath and shower, positioned to take in spectacular views of the Witzenburg Mountains and the valley as the sun sets, creates a truly romantic and private moment that will have a special place in your memories forever!
Your Next Adventure Starts Here!
Ready to hit that ‘Book Now’ button? These incredible stays prove that we offer a world-class travel experience right on our doorstep. Don’t just stick to the well-known paths; take a cue from your fellow travellers, and experiment with new and unique stays that offer something out of the ordinary. Supporting local travel has never been easier. Go on, turn your social media screen dreams into a real-life bucket list memory!
Feature image: MBIZI lagoon house
