At the base of the awe inspiring Tsitsikamma Mountains, alongside ancient rivers that make their way towards the Indian Ocean, lies the beautiful Forest Ferns Estate. Occupying a magnificent position on 109 hectares that borders onto the Tsitsikamma National Park, it has enchanting views of the rugged coastline, river gorge, and surrounding plantations - the perfect spot to reacquaint yourself with nature and renew the harmony of your soul.

Amongst all this natural splendour the Gerber family has created the tranquil Fernery with its lovely display of indigenous ferns and excellent restaurant, as well as luxury 4-star graded accommodation in both the magnificent Lodge which has unrivalled views over the Indian Ocean, and in eight secluded chalets nestled along the river gorge.

Situated only 160 Km from Port Elizabeth, at the Eastern gateway to the Cape Garden Route of South Africa, this piece of paradise awaits your discovery. Enjoy languishing alongside the pool and jacuzzi, take a picnic on a forest amble, or drive out and visit the Tsitsikamma Marine Reserve. No matter whether is is hot and sunny or cool and drizzly, you will start each day with views that will enthrall you, and surround you with the rejuvenating effect of nature's energy.

The Fernery Lodge: Imagine sitting above a 30 metre waterfall, with breathtaking views of a river gorge and the wild Indian Ocean? This is the setting of the Fernery Lodge!

It is so magnificent and unique that it is difficult to decide whether to admire the incredible surroundings from the Lodge's deck area with the swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and gym, or to enjoy it from the comfort of any one of our six deluxe suites.

Each room is light and spacious, tastefully decorated to the theme of its name, and with an understated but romantic elegance. Every effort has been made to ensure our guests' comfort, from crisp percale linen and large luxurious bathrooms with separate bath and shower, to underfloor heating and satellite television. For complete opulence try one of the honeymoon suites with luxurious spa bath and sea view. Other features include a mini bar, electronic safe, telephone, hairdryer, tea & coffee facilities, and bath robes.

Fernery Chalets: Stay at the Fernery Chalets and experience the Tsitsikamma as if you were the first to discover it. Secluded and nestled in fynbos along the river bank these 4 star chalets ensure a private paradise experience, with views of river pools, plantation, mountains and ocean. Enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of fynbos and bird life from the privacy of the sheltered deck or curl up in front of a log fire with a good book. The B&B chalets sleep two in either twin or king size luxury, and the self-catering chalets can sleep four, making them ideal for families.

The chalet names are inspired by nature and the magnificent surroundings, and each chalet is beautifully decorated to the theme of its name. Great attention has been given to detail and we have aspired to provide everything for your comfort, from en suite bathrooms with both bath and shower, and crisp percale linen and mohair blankets, to a cosy sitting area with a ceramic fireplace. Other features include a mini bar, electronic safe, hairdryer, tea & coffee facilities, ceiling fan and a weber braai with wood and charcoal.

The Chalets are open to children of all ages. Babysitters can also be arranged on request, should adults wish to dine in the restaurant.

Forest Ferns Estate also offers all guests use of the lodge pool, sauna, jacuzzi and gym, as well as an eight man outdoor jacuzzi overlooking the river gorge and a lovely pool and recreational area, with satellite TV.

The Fernery Lodge: At the end of a 'tough day relaxing', guests can enjoy pre-dinner drinks and snacks in the Lodge lounge, before selecting a dinner wine and making their way to the Cellar Dining Room with its open fireplace and stunning Ocean view. Here in our fine dining restaurant you are served an excellent 4 course menu d'hote offering South African choices such as ostrich steak, springbok carpaccio and traditional melktert. Many of the salad ingredients and herbs are grown in our own Forest Ferns garden and the bread is home baked.

Complementing the menu is a wine list with an excellent selection of fine South African wines to suit all palates, and for those who enjoy the pleasures of a good cigar, a cigar box is available for selection and enjoyment under the stars.

Fernery Chalets: A full farm style breakfast with fruit, cereals, and eggs is served in the beautiful Fernery, and simple but stylish light meals are available throughout the day. A delicious 4 course menu d' hote dinner is served in either the Otter's Holt or the Lodge Restaurant, with choices such as ostrich steak, springbok carpaccio and melktert. You can also choose to end the day with a traditional South African barbeque - simply arrange with us beforehand and we will supply everything from the starter to the dessert.

The Fernery at Forest Ferns, where the Estate's accommodation is located, is a unique tourist attraction that has developed around the fascinating industry of fern exports to the European flower markets. Revel in the magnificent display of indigenous ferns and running water, and enjoy a farm style breakfast, a scrumptious home made muffin, or a delicious fresh light lunch in this beautifully tranquil setting. Our excellent 4 course dinner is often served in the cosy Otters Holt Restaurant with its open fireplace and Khoisan theme.

Browse through the curio shop and choose from our quaint selection of African art and beaded work, and if you can - take home a beautiful fern plant to remind you of the mystical Tsitsikamma. Sets of four indigenous fern prints signed by artist Koeriena du Bruin who painted the originals for Forest Ferns are also available for sale.

If you ever tire of gazing at the view, which we doubt, the Fernery and its magnificent surroundings offer an endless array of activities.

For nature loves there are walks both on and around the farm that take you through plantations, wetlands and fynbos to beautiful viewpoints, with many birding opportunities en route. You can also amble over to the dam and drop a fishing line in the water in pursuit of bass, or take the rowboat out and enjoy a round of sundowners. The more active can take to the forest roads on mountain bikes and set about conquering the surrounding terrain.

There is another option for exploring the area that does not require either riding or walking - two characterful vehicles are available to take you on picnics, sightseeing, or sundowner outings - just discuss your desires with any member of our friendly staff and we will strive to meet your requirements.

Within easy driving distance of Forest Ferns is the magnificent Tsitsikamma National Park which is well worth a visit, as well as Storms River Village where you will find the exciting treetop canopy tours, and the Bloukrans Rive Bridge from which adrenalin seekers can throw themselves off in a 214 metre bungee jump.

The Fernery is also the final overnight destination of the three day, luxury Dolphin Hiking Trail.

Chalet rates include Bed and Breakfast only. Children under 12 only accommodated in the chalets.

Lodge Suites and B&B Chalets sleep 2 each. The self-catering chalets sleep max 4.