Escape to Malgas

Tranquility at Breede River - A River drifts in Silence, time slows, and peace setlles like sunlight on water

About Malgas Retreats
Nestled along the serene banks of the Breede River, our holiday accommodations in Malgas provide an ideal getaway for those seeking peace and connection with nature. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, our rentals blend comfort and tranquility, ensuring an unforgettable retreat experience. 
Your Riverside Relaxtion Awaits
Whether drifting on its calm waters, exploring its unspoiled natural beauty, or simply soaking in the serenity of this breathtaking setting — Malgas invites you to slow down, reconnect, and let the everyday world slip far away. Here, each sunrise feels like a fresh beginning, and every sunset settles gently over the river as if just for you

Rentals Available

Riverdance Cottage

Cozy Riverside Escape - Just 50m from the rivers edge, this two bedroom cottage offers uninterrupted river and garden views. Relax by the indoor fireplace, cook in the well-equipped kitchen, or unwind on the veranda with stunning views and its own outdoor fireplace. Both bedrooms feature en-suite bathrooms - your private retreat in a peaceful riverside setting.

Jonkers Cottage

Jonkers Cottage - Spacious Riverside Family Retreat - Perched on the banks of the Breede, this 5-bedroom home is perfect for family and friends. One bedroom is en-suite, two share a bathroom with shower & bath and two share a Jack-and-Jill bathroom. The huge lounge, dining and kitchen area flows onto a massive veranda made for relaxing, braais, outdoor dining and kol/kol jacuzzi. The enclosed garden makes it safe for kiddies and pets. - Your ultimate riverside getaway.

Tranquility Cottage

Rustic Riverside Charm with Extra Cottage - This unique 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home (two en-suite) offers space and character with a huge kitchen/dining area, two inviting lounges, and a lovely veranda. An added 2-bedroom cottage—both en-suite—features a cozy kitchen-lounge with fireplace and an open-plan veranda with braai. Perfect for families or groups wanting comfort, charm, and plenty of space to unwind

Misty Moon

Exquisite Riverside Retreat This breathtaking 5-bedroom residence, all en-suite, blends sophistication with comfort. A grand lounge with fireplace and a chef’s kitchen—complete with ice and coffee machines—set the stage for unforgettable gatherings. Entertain in the expansive dining hall with its own fireplace, or take the party outside to the stylish braai and alfresco dining area. Sleeping up to 12 guests, it’s the ultimate riverside escape for those who appreciate luxury and leisure.

Belvedere Place

Tranquil Riverside Getaway Set just back from the river’s edge, this welcoming home offers a spacious open-plan kitchen, lounge, and dining area with fireplace, flowing onto a large veranda for dining or simply soaking up the views of the Breede. Enjoy an outdoor protected braai area plus a private cottage with its own large en-suite bedroom, coffee station, and veranda—perfect for a peaceful retreat.

Whispering Waters

Welcome to Whispering Waters, a spacious 4-bedroom home right on the Breede River. Two en-suite rooms and a Jack-and-Jill double + single make it perfect for families or friends. Enjoy a large veranda, pool, jetty, and private slipway. Unwind in the open-plan lounge and kitchen, light the braai, and let the river set the rhythm of your stay.

Discover Malgas 

Fishing Tales on the Breede
They say the Breede River is where fish go to test your patience… and your storytelling skills. Cast a line from the jetty, boat or river bank — and you’ll soon be bragging about the one that got away (because honestly, it’s always bigger when retold around the braai).Expect grunters, kob, leervis, and the occasional “mystery tug” that’ll have you swearing you hooked a submarine. Don’t worry if you’re not a pro — half the joy is sitting with a rod in one hand and a cold drink in the other, waiting for your reel to scream or your buddy to nod off first.Even when the fish are laughing at you from below, the river serves up golden sunsets, fish eagles overhead, and that smug sense of “I could’ve been at work today, but I’m not.”So pack your tackle, pack your tall tales, and get ready: here, every cast is either dinner… or a great story.
Fishing TalesFishing TalesFishing Tales

Gallery

Restaurants & Shops

Grunters

At Grunters, every meal comes with a side of Malgas charm — from legendary Lamb Tails and mouth-watering burgers to golden fish & chips and hearty schnitzels, all served in a fun, quirky setting that keeps guests coming back for more.

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The BoatHouse

The Boathouse is where great food meets river views — famous for its crisp-base pizzas, cold drinks, and the kind of sunsets that make you want to linger just a little longer, it’s the perfect place to relax, eat, and soak up the beauty of the Breede

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The Bush Pub

Hidden among the trees, The Bush Pub serves up amazing cocktails, Grunters’ favourite burgers, and a relaxed, rustic vibe that captures the easy spirit of Malgas — the kind of spot where stories are shared and evenings drift effortlessly into night.

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Boketto

Whether you’re browsing while picking up fresh breads and pies inside Mad Goose or stepping across the road to their dedicated shop, Boketto is filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. This inviting gift store offers a curated collection of thoughtful keepsakes, locally inspired pieces, and unique finds that make the perfect souvenir or special gift. With its relaxed Malgas charm and handpicked surprises, Boketto is a delightful stop where you’re sure to find something that speaks to you.

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Mad Goose

Welcome to Mad Goose, an upscaled grocery experience at the heart of Malgas. Step inside and you’re greeted by the aroma of fresh-baked bread rolls, golden banana bread, and warm, spicy samosas — with irresistible milk tart waiting to sweeten your day. Beyond the bakery counter, Mad Goose offers all the essentials and then some: quality meats, fresh and frozen veggies, creamy milk, chocolates, sweets, and everyday groceries. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and indulgence, making every stop at Mad Goose feel like part of the holiday

Malagas Hotel

At the Malgas Hotel, hearty homemade meals and generous pub lunches are served with true country warmth — the perfect place to linger over comfort food and good company on the banks of the Breede.

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The Story of Malgas
“Where church bells rang, steamers whistled, and the pont still pulls across the water.”

The Story in Detail

The Stone Church

Built in 1855–56 with support from Barry & Nephews, the Malgas Dutch Reformed Church is a heritage landmark. Its bell once called farmers down to the river when steamers arrived. Floods destroyed some early contents, but the church itself endured as the heart of this riverside port.

The Hand Drawn Pont

The Malgas Pont began service in the early 1830s—credited to Joseph Barry himself—and became South Africa’s last operating hand-drawn river ferry. Today, visitors still cross the Breede this way, sharing in nearly two centuries of Overberg history.

SS Kadie

Launched in Scotland in 1859, the Kadie was a screw steamer built specially to run upriver from Port Beaufort to Malgas. She carried wool, grain, and goods between Cape Town and the Overberg—covering the journey in just 2½ hours. In December 1865, the Kadie struck the bar at the Breede mouth and was lost. Her story marks both the high point and decline of river trade.

Contact


 madelenenel@gmail.com

  • Malgas, Western Cape, South Africa
  • Western Cape
  •  Mon-Fri - 08:00-19:00

Life at the River