There are places that stitch themselves into your childhood memories, and for me, Caledon Hotel & Spa is one of those. Nestled in the Overberg region of the Western Cape, it’s not just a destination, it’s a tradition. Growing up, my parents made it our annual family spot, and now, years later, we’re keeping that tradition alive with a slightly bigger crew.
This time around, it wasn’t just me, my husband Zeyn, and our little adventurer Yaqeen, we rolled in full squad style with my parents and brother too. A proper family affair! And honestly, Caledon is the kind of place that just works for everyone. It’s got hotel-level comfort, that cozy cottage-style charm, and a “you’re officially on weekend mode” kind of vibe the second you arrive.
Whether you’re there for the warm mineral springs, the indulgent spa, or just to live your best fluffy-gown-and-room-service life, Caledon hits the sweet spot between nostalgic escape and grown-up getaway.
Location
Tucked away in the heart of the Overberg region, The Caledon Hotel & Spa is located in a small small town called Caledon.
Its scenic 90min drive from Cape Town and is surrounded by the majestic Klein Swartberg Mountains and the rolling greenery always gives me that breathe-out-and-finally-relax moment and my world feels like the world slows down a bit the minute we get to the gate.
"Caledon was our spring holiday spot for as long as I can remember, the kind of place that just feels right. Going back now feels familiar in the best way, like a little tradition that never gets old."
Accommodation
Okay, honesty first. The rooms could use a little refresh. A modern touch here and there wouldn’t hurt, especially in the bathrooms. A separate bath and shower instead of one would really be a lovely upgrade. But that said? They’re still clean, comfy, and give off a kind of vintage luxury that adds to ambiance of the hotel.
The rooms are spacious, a big win when you’re traveling with a kid and snacks and, way too many bags. All the basics are covered: fluffy towels, complimentary tea and coffee, a decent TV for wind-down time, hotel toiletries, and free Wi-Fi for those still scrolling.
We always stay in a family room which works perfectly. It either comes with a sleeper couch or an extra bed for the little ones.
Overall, it’s a great base to kick back and chillout for the weekend.
The Spa & Hot Springs
The Caledon hot springs are easily the highlight of the whole stay. There’s just nothing quite like slipping into those warm, steamy waters, especially on a chilly day with the mountain air around you. The fact that the water is naturally enriched with minerals makes the experience feel even more grounding and restorative.
The springs are fed from an underground source deep within the mountain, and as the water flows down through layered rock pools and gentle man-made waterfalls, it cools along the way. It’s a beautiful blend of nature and design, creating a space that soothes the mind, body, and soul without even trying too hard.
While there’s a definite atmosphere of calm and tranquility, there’s also an easygoing, family-friendly energy in the air. Kids can laugh and splash, adults can float and unwind, and somehow it all just works. It’s that rare kind of balance, peaceful but not precious, relaxed yet alive.
Right alongside the hot springs is the spa, a calm little haven offering everything from Swedish and African stone massages to facials, wraps, and even a DIY rhassoul clay experience for couples. The spa also features a warm mineral pool, steam room, sauna, garden jacuzzi, and a peaceful zen garden to round things off.
Whether you’re popping in for a quick pamper or booking a full day of treatments, it’s the perfect complement to a hot springs soak and a proper little escape for mind, body, and soul.
Casino
Another big drawcard at Caledon Hotel & Spa is the on-site casino. Now, I’m not much of a gambler myself, so this isn’t really my scene, but if flashing lights, ringing machines, and chasing that lucky streak sound like your kind of fun, then you’ll be well entertained here. It adds a lively vibe to the evenings and keeps the energy buzzing long after the sun goes down.
Kids Entertainment Center
Travelling with kids? Caledon’s got you covered with a dedicated kids’ entertainment centre that’s packed with fun. From arcade games and kiddie rides to movies and activities that keep little hands busy, it’s the perfect spot for them to burn off energy while you sneak in some grown-up relaxation. My Son Yaqeen gave it his personal stamp of approval.
Adventure
For those seeking a thrill beyond the spa and springs, Caledon offers exhilarating outdoor adventures. The Tree Top Zipline Tour lets you glide through the forest canopy, with platforms ranging from 8 to 18 meters high and zip lines stretching up to 200 meters. It’s a unique way to experience the area’s natural beauty from above. Prefer to keep your feet (mostly) on the ground? The quad biking trails wind through indigenous oak forests, open farmlands, and along riverbanks, offering a mix of terrains and scenic views. No prior experience is needed, making it accessible for beginners and families alike.
Walks & Hikes
If you’re craving a little adventure, the hike up to the cave is a peaceful way to take in Caledon’s natural beauty. The trail winds through the scenic Overberg, with crisp mountain air and sweeping views making the gentle climb feel totally worth it. Not in the mood for a hike? A relaxed stroll around the hotel grounds offers just as much charm, with kids’ play areas, rolling lawns, tranquil ponds, and a few curious animals wandering about. It’s the kind of simple, screen-free time that makes a family weekend feel refreshingly real.
Where to Eat
Breakfast is included in your stay and offers all the usual hotel classics, with a dedicated halaal section available. For lunch and dinner, the hotel has a few dining spots like the pizzeria and Black Sheep Restaurant. Since halaal options on-site are limited, we usually buy meals in town or bring our own. The hotel’s super relaxed about guests bringing snacks, and the bar fridge in the room is perfect for storing your goodies. The Blue Crane Restaurant serves all meals daily and has a wider selection, plus there are bars throughout the hotel for cocktails, mocktails, and late-night drinks. Room service is available too, which is always a win for those cozy, stay-in moments.
Final Thoughts
Caledon Hotel & Spa has been part of our family’s story for years, and even now, it still holds that comforting, familiar charm. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, soak in the warm mineral waters, and just be present with your people, your thoughts, or your plate of snacks by the pool.
Yes, the rooms could use a little refresh, and yes, it’s not bursting with luxury bells and whistles, but that’s not what keeps us coming back. It’s the laid-back energy, the family-friendly vibe, and the nostalgia wrapped up in every hot spring dip and mountain breeze.
If you’re looking for a low-key weekend escape where you can relax, reconnect, and maybe unplug a little, Caledon might just be your kind of stay.
That said, we did experience an unfortunate moment at the end of our visit this time. After checkout, we were abruptly asked to leave the property by security staff in a way that felt unnecessarily harsh, especially after so many years of visiting and being allowed to use the facilities post-checkout. It was disappointing and left us with a bit of a sour aftertaste to an otherwise lovely trip.
We believe in sharing honest reviews, and while it doesn’t erase the good memories, it’s worth noting for future guests to manage expectations.
If you’ve been to Caledon before or are thinking of going, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop a comment or reach out, sharing stories is half the adventure.
Until the next Ashventure… 💛
