Soul Forest Stays
Fully off-grid, self-catering nature escapes
in the heart of the Garden Route
South Africa
Unique & thoughtful stays designed for couples wanting to slow down, reconnect and disappear into nature — with private trails, forest surroundings and space to truly switch off.
Ten years in the forest, and three unique spaces we've slowly made our own… and are yours to share!
Soul Forest began long before there was a booking page or even a name.
Ten years ago, we made our home on this land, tucked away in an indigenous forest above Sedgefield. Since then, this place has been the backdrop to our family life. Three children have grown up here. We've watched the seasons change, learnt the rhythms of the forest, and come to know the birds, trees and quiet corners that make this land feel like home.
We're also the kind of folk who have always loved to travel. In fact, travel is where our own story began, having met each other for the first time in a tiny village in Northern Spain while hiking the Camino de Santiago. We love finding places with character, somewhere that feels a little different, meeting people who see the world in a similar way, and coming home with memories rather than just photographs. That love of travel has shaped the way we've approached Soul Forest too. We wanted to create the kind of accommodation we'd want to discover ourselves — thoughtful, tucked away, connected to nature, and with a sense that you've found somewhere a little special.
Over the years, different little projects and ideas have found their way into the landscape, but eventually we realised that some of these spaces could be shared with other people too. People looking for exactly what we had come to value so much about living here: space, peace, nature and the chance to slow down.
The three stays at Soul Forest each have their own story to tell:
The Cabin was already here when we arrived. It was part of the farm long before Soul Forest existed, and we've given it a new life as a secluded forest retreat, adding the things that will make you feel comforted by your surroundings.
The GeoDome was a different story. This one was built by Marijus, from the ground up. It became a chance to create something completely different — a super unique space that will make you feel at one with the forest itself.
And The Nest has perhaps had the most lives of all. What was once our little coffee roastery has recently been reimagined and reconstructed by Marijus as a treetop hideaway. Reclaimed doors, windows and timber became part of its character, and what emerged is a cozy loft where every detail is lovingly and thoughtfully curated.
We are entirely off-grid, relying on rainwater and solar energy. It's a simpler way of living that asks us all to be a little more mindful of what we use and, in return, brings you a little closer to the Earth.
None of this was created all at once. Soul Forest has grown organically alongside our family and our life here. We've built, adapted, repurposed, experimented, made mistakes, fixed things, and continually found new ways to make these special spaces better for our guests.
Our intention is to share the feeling we've had from living here for the past decade — waking up with the sun, hearing the birds, watching the light move across the mountains, sitting around a fire, and having the space to simply do less.
And perhaps most of all, we love the idea of Soul Forest bringing like-minded people into our world. Curious travellers, nature lovers, people who appreciate thoughtful spaces and the little details, and those who would rather discover somewhere with soul than stay somewhere that could be anywhere in the world.
We are incredibly blessed to call this home, and we are happy to share a little piece of it with you.
Three ways to disappear
Each unit sleeps two and stands entirely on its own — private, self-catering, and built for slowing all the way down.
We regret no pets allowed.
Soul Forest GeoDome
A romantic one-of-a-kind forest escape beneath the stars — sleeps 2
Perched above the ground amongst the trees with breathtaking views over the indigenous forest. A super unique glamping experience, secluded and private.
- Private wood-fired hot tub
- Treetop outdoor shower
- Stargazing windows & telescope
- Aircon
- Cargo net / hammock deck
- Fire pit / braai
- Kitchenette + gas hob
- Wi-Fi, board games & books
Not suitable for children under 12 · steep forest path to the deck, please book with mobility in mind.
The Nest
A cozy and characterful loft-style treetop hideaway — sleeps 2
Hand-crafted from reclaimed timber, windows and doors. Tucked away and perched atop an indigenous forest with views of the Outeniqua mountains.
- Loft bed, mountain views
- Clay egg indoor fireplace
- Weber braai
- Private outdoor bush shower
- Fully fitted kitchen, gas hob
- Wi-Fi, boardgames, books plus a bluetooth speaker
Not suitable for children under 12 or less mobile travellers · upstairs loft bedroom with low ceiling and outdoor bathroom only.
Soul Forest Cabin
A soulful escape surrounded by nature, made for slowing down — sleeps 2 · 2-night min stay
Open-plan and fully fitted, situated at the far end of the farm with breathtaking forest views. Thriving bird life and a night sky that will have you awe-struck.
- En-suite bathroom with shower
- Indoor fireplace
- Wood-fired hot tub
- Sunny patio with braai
- Full kitchen incl. air fryer & oven
- Designated work desk, Wi-Fi
10% off for Direct Bookings
Celebrating an Anniversary or Honeymoon? Add a special touch — available in the booking process!
*rates exclude cleaning fee
Off the grid, on purpose
Soul Forest is located on a communal farm 10 minutes from Sedgefield (11km) and 20 minutes from Knysna (25km), a perfect base to explore the Garden Route.
- 01Yellowwood TrailA private hiking trail meanders down into the indigenous forest, running along a perennial stream.
- 02Night SkiesClear, uninterrupted views of the Milky Way: Something you cannot witness in the City
- 03Unbelievable Bird LifeThriving birdlife throughout the forest, from loeries to sunbirds. Bring your binoculars.
- 04Secret WaterfallA 15-minute drive to a hidden waterfall and natural pools.
- 05Braai, alwaysEvery unit includes a braai with grid & tongs, plus one basket of firewood and firelighters.
Check availability
Real-time availability across all three units, powered by Inn Style, no third-party fees, no redirects.
Plus 10% off for direct bookings
