Moontide Guest House is the most romantic of retreats, located amidst 400-year-old milkwood trees and a profusion of birds and plants. Set on the shores of the Wilderness lagoon, with gardens that flow into its tidal waters, the lodge is a birdwatcher's paradise. Spend the day exploring the forests and waterfalls of Wilderness National park, or sightseeing the quaint towns of Knysna or Oudtshoorn, but make sure you set aside enough time to unwind in your Moontide hideaway before wandering down to the jetty to catch the ferry to a nearby riverside restaurant. What could be more romantic?

BREAKFAST: Start the day with a great breakfast, served on the terrace overlooking the lagoon. Help yourself to a buffet table of cereals, yoghurt, cheese, breads, juice and milk. The on-duty manager will then offer you a choice of hot breakfast options, served with a bottomless pot of excellent filter coffee, or breakfast or Rooibos tea.
WEDDINGS: Moontide has a reputation for engendering romance - five proposals have been made (and accepted!) here, and numerous nuptials celebrated in style. The entire venue (space to seat 100) can be hired for little more than it would cost to rent the rooms, and accommodation for 14 guests (maximum 22) included. Establishment can also assist with wedding planning, hiring an experienced event manager to deal with everything from table decorations to the boat the bride may choose to arrive in.
LOCATION: Located within the sprawling and beautiful Wilderness National Park, the small residential village is the ideal location from which to explore the gems of the Garden Route and Klein Karoo. Not only is this little village by far the most tranquil of the Garden Route options, but you are within easy striking distance of all the areas: the plethora of sights you'll find at bustling Knysna lie within a 25-minute radius; Plettenberg Bay, playground of the rich and famous, a further 20 minutes, while Oudtshoorn and the jaw-dropping Swartberg Pass lies 60 minutes away. Moontide itself is also well located within Wilderness - at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, it is the only lodge right on the lagoon, yet the beach is a four minute stroll from here, while the charming Milkwood Village, with its craft shops, informal eateries and health spa is a 10 minute walk (or three minute drive) away.

ACCOMMODATION: The seven en-suite cottages and rooms, each with their own entrance and outdoor seating area, are designed to provide you with those real 21st century luxuries, space and privacy. All the cottages are equipped with TV, M-Net and Satellite, and feature a balcony/patio.
Treetops: A timber treehouse built on stilts, with sliding doors opening onto a private terrace with wonderful elevated views of the lagoon and verdant hillsides of Wilderness from your queensize bed.
Moonriver Suite: A spacious double-volume thatched suite, part of the main house but with private entrance, and great views of the garden.
Milkwood Cottage: A richly decorated room that can potentially sleep four, with a kingsize bed looking out onto your private seating alcove, shaded by a 400-year-old milkwood tree.
Stone Cottage: A century-old stone and thatch dwelling, furnished with antiques and Egyptian-themed artworks, the stone cottage exudes comfort and warmth. The twin beds (can be made up as kingsize) overlook a large semi-private seating area. Parking bay located a few steps away.
The Boathouse: The smallest room, but for many Moontide's most romantic choice, the Boathouse is located right on the river - wake up in your double bed and watch the changing light on the water and aquatic birdlife preen. Bathroom is compact (corner bath; hand shower) but comfortable.
Moonshadow 1: The bed (can be made up as twin beds) overlooks a semi-private seating area. Parking bay located a few steps away.
Moonshadow 2: A huge suite with two sets of double doors leading onto a large patio with riverviews. Separate walk-in cupboard; ideal for those travelling with a lot of luggage or staying for more than a few nights. Parking bay located a few steps away.