South African highland farmland at dusk

Where Relationships Breathe Again

A luxury private retreat near the Magaliesberg, created for couples, families, and individuals who need to slow down, reconnect, and remember what matters most.

Begin Your JourneyBook Now
"The name Umoya means breath, spirit, and renewal. That is exactly what we built this place to give you."

Modern life is relentless. It demands attention, movement, urgency, and performance, constantly. Relationships carry that weight quietly until they cannot carry it anymore.

Umoya was built as a deliberate interruption. A place where couples reconnect. Where families remember why they love each other. Where individuals rediscover stillness. In the ancient mountains of the Magaliesberg, 90 minutes from Johannesburg, something quietly resets.

A warmly lit wooden deck at Umoya with comfortable seating and lanterns at sunset

More than a luxury retreat.

Umoya is the only retreat near the Magaliesberg that intentionally combines luxury accommodation with guided relationship-focused experiences. At its heart is The Couples Coach Experience, a unique offering created by relationship coach Alicia Oosthuizen.

Modern couples often arrive carrying the weight of stress, routine, emotional disconnection, and unresolved pressure. Umoya creates the space, and the guidance, for something different. Whether you arrive to celebrate, to heal, to reconnect, or simply to rest, the experience is shaped around you.

  • Privacy without interruption
  • Peace without distraction
  • Comfort without compromise
  • Nature without noise
  • Time without pressure
Explore The Couples Coach Experience

The Magaliesberg is one of the oldest mountain ranges on earth , quartzite ridges raised more than two billion years ago, long before the Drakensberg, long before the Alps. The farm sits in a valley shaped by that immense, patient geology.

We farm here with that fact held clearly in mind. What we plant, what we raise, what we leave entirely alone, each decision is made in service of the mountain that made the valley possible.

Magaliesberg, North West, 26°28'S 27°56'E, Ancient Land
Grassland and acacia trees near the Magaliesberg beneath a heavy stormy sky
Silhouette of horse and rider against golden highland dawn
I

The Reconnection

Guided couples experiences designed to rebuild closeness.

A beautifully appointed bedroom at Umoya Private Retreat
II

The Rest

Luxury interiors, open skies, and time without agenda.

Outdoor copper bath on stone terrace overlooking farmland
III

The Land

Ancient mountains, fresh air, and restorative stillness.

Couples. Families. Individuals. All welcome. All private.
A warmly lit wooden deck with seating and lanterns at Umoya
Accommodations · Private · Exclusive · Intentional
Blesbok Lodge
Three Bedrooms Plus Loft · Sleeps Up To 8 Guests

Spacious, comfortable and made for time together.

Welcome to Blesbok Unit, a spacious and comfortable three bedroom retreat designed for relaxed family getaways, friends travelling together, or couples looking for a peaceful escape into the bushveld. The unit comfortably accommodates up to 8 guests across four sleeping areas. Two bedrooms feature comfortable king size beds, while the third bedroom has two single beds. For families or additional guests, the cosy loft room provides two more single beds, a space that is especially popular with children and teenagers. At the heart of the unit is a fully equipped, homely kitchen, with a warm and inviting living area alongside it. Step outside onto the lovely private stoep and garden area, and when the sun begins to set, your private boma awaits for a traditional South African braai beneath the stars.

Perfect For
  • Family getaways
  • Friends travelling together
  • Couples wanting extra space
  • Children and teenagers in the loft room
  • Peaceful bushveld escapes
Features
  • Sleeps up to 8 guests
  • 3 bedrooms plus loft sleeping area
  • 2 king size beds
  • 4 single beds
  • Main bedroom en-suite with bath, toilet and basin
  • Second bathroom with shower, toilet and basin
  • Fully equipped kitchen
  • Dining area
  • Comfortable lounge
  • Private stoep and patio
  • Private garden area
  • Private boma and braai area
  • Peaceful bushveld surroundings
Acacia Lodge
Two Bedroom Log Cabin · A Beautiful Bushveld Escape

Settle in, breathe out and let the bushveld do the rest.

Welcome to Acacia Lodge, a charming two bedroom log cabin where the warmth of natural timber meets the tranquillity of the bushveld. The main bedroom has its own en-suite bathroom with both a bath and shower, while the second bathroom offers a shower and toilet for added convenience. The fully equipped kitchen makes self catering effortless, with a separate pantry for extra storage and a washing machine that makes the lodge particularly convenient for longer stays and family holidays. One of the highlights is the beautiful covered patio, perfect for morning coffee with the sounds of the bushveld, a lazy afternoon in the shade, or gathering as the sun sets. Directly in front of the lodge is a communal boma area for a traditional South African braai and stories around the fire.

Perfect For
  • Families
  • Friends travelling together
  • Couples
  • Longer stays and family holidays
  • A break from the city
Features
  • 2 bedroom log cabin
  • Main bedroom en-suite with bath and shower
  • Second bathroom with shower and toilet
  • Fully equipped kitchen
  • Pantry
  • Washing machine
  • Beautiful covered patio and stoep
  • Communal boma area in front of the lodge
  • Private gas braai
  • Peaceful bushveld surroundings
Wild Olive Suite
One Bedroom Suite · Perfect For Couples Or Up To 3 Adults

Where the bushveld is your view and the wildlife your neighbour.

Welcome to the Wild Olive Suite, a peaceful and private retreat where comfort, nature and beautiful bushveld views come together. This cosy one bedroom suite features a comfortable king size bed, making it an ideal escape for couples looking to slow down and reconnect. The suite can also accommodate a third adult on the comfortable sofa couch in the living area. There is a private bathroom with a shower, toilet and basin, as well as a convenient kitchenette for light meals, snacks and morning coffee. Step outside onto your private stoep, where the bushveld stretches out before you and wild buck roam freely in the distance. Your private outdoor area also includes a braai facility, perfect for a relaxed South African evening beneath the stars.

Perfect For
  • Romantic weekends away
  • Peaceful solo retreats
  • Couples or up to 3 adults
  • Slow days at your own pace
  • Evenings around your own fire
Features
  • 1 bedroom unit
  • King size bed
  • Sofa couch that accommodates a third adult
  • Private bathroom with shower, toilet and basin
  • Kitchenette
  • Private stoep
  • Private braai area
  • Access to communal boma area
  • Stunning bushveld views
  • Wild buck roaming in the surrounding bushveld
Aloe Suite
Luxury Couples Suite · Sleeps 2 Guests

Aloe Suite: wake up to the bushveld, slow down, and simply enjoy being together.

Step into the Aloe Suite, an intimate and beautifully appointed retreat designed for couples seeking peace, privacy and a little time away from the everyday. This spacious one-bedroom suite features a luxurious king-size bed, creating a comfortable and inviting space to relax and unwind after a day exploring the surrounding bushveld. The suite has a convenient kitchenette, giving you the freedom to prepare a morning coffee, light breakfast or a relaxed meal whenever you wish. The full bathroom offers both a bath and a separate shower, allowing you to choose between a refreshing start to the day or a long, relaxing soak at the end of it. But the real magic of Aloe Suite is outside. Step onto your private stoep and take in the beautiful, uninterrupted views across the Umoya bushveld. With wildlife roaming in the distance, you may find yourself spending more time outside than inside: coffee in hand in the morning, a glass of something special in the afternoon, or simply watching the landscape change as the sun sets. There is something wonderfully peaceful about waking up surrounded by nature, knowing that the only plans for the day are your own. Aloe Suite is perfect for couples who want to disconnect from the noise, reconnect with each other and experience the beauty of the bushveld from the comfort of their own private retreat.

Perfect For
  • Couples
  • Peaceful, private stays
  • Romantic getaways
  • Slowing down in nature
Features
  • King-size bed
  • Beautiful bushveld views
  • Views of wild game
  • Kitchenette
  • Full bathroom with bath and shower
  • Private stoep with outdoor views
  • Peaceful, private setting
  • Ideal for couples

Every stay includes private outdoor space, complete privacy and the quiet of the Magaliesberg.

Life at Umoya

Every day holds something beautiful.

From the moment you arrive, Umoya invites you to slow down and discover the quiet richness of farm life. Whether you spend your days in stillness or gentle exploration, there is always something to savour.

Blesbok grazing in golden grass with layered hills in the distance

Game Viewing

Blesbok and impala roam freely across the property, offering peaceful wildlife encounters from your doorstep.

A private swimming pool with a shaded gazebo and loungers surrounded by trees

Swimming Pool

Cool off and unwind in the pool, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the bushveld.

A narrow bush path winding through sunlit trees and grasses

Bush Walks

Explore the property on foot and connect with the natural landscape at your own pace.

The Milky Way arching over the farmhouse and mountain ridge at night

Stargazing

Far from city lights, Umoya's skies offer an extraordinary canvas of stars on clear evenings.

A glowing outdoor fire pit at dusk with mountain silhouettes beyond

Fire Pit Evenings

Settle around the fire pit, share stories and let the night unfold at its own gentle pace.

Candlelit evening picnic with cushions, lanterns, flowers and fairy lights strung through the trees

Picnic Spots

Enjoy a leisurely picnic in the open grounds, surrounded by nature.

Two sheep feeding in a golden grass paddock as the sun sets over the farm

Sheep Farm Experience

Connect with the working side of the farm and enjoy a charming encounter with farm life.

Bird Watching

The Magaliesberg is home to a remarkable variety of bird species, making Umoya a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

Braai Evenings

Each accommodation has its own private braai area. Gather around the fire as the sun sets over the hills.

Photography Opportunities

From golden sunrises to wildlife and landscapes, Umoya offers endless moments worth capturing.

The Couples Coach Experience

Where luxury meets lasting connection.

At Umoya, we believe the most meaningful journeys are those that bring people closer together. For couples seeking more than a romantic escape, The Couples Coach Experience offers the opportunity to invest intentionally in their relationship while enjoying the luxury, privacy and tranquillity of Umoya. Whether you are celebrating your relationship, navigating life's challenges, preparing for marriage, or simply wanting to reconnect, our exclusive relationship experiences are thoughtfully designed to help couples strengthen communication, deepen intimacy and create lasting memories. Every experience is delivered in a warm, professional and confidential environment.

A couple walking hand in hand through golden grass at sunset near the mountains
Our Signature Experiences
  1. I

    The Reconnect Escape

    Perfect For

    Couples wanting quality time together.

    Combines luxury accommodation with guided activities to help couples reconnect emotionally and enjoy intentional moments together.

  2. II

    The Couples Reset Retreat

    Perfect For

    Couples feeling disconnected or overwhelmed.

    Creates space to pause, reflect and reconnect through guided conversations, practical relationship tools and uninterrupted quality time.

  3. III

    Rebuild After Betrayal

    Perfect For

    Couples recovering from infidelity or broken trust.

    A carefully structured programme providing a safe and supportive environment where couples can begin rebuilding trust and communication.

  4. IV

    The Premarital Journey

    Perfect For

    Engaged couples.

    Helps couples build a strong foundation before marriage by exploring communication, conflict resolution, finances, expectations, intimacy, family dynamics and shared values.

  5. V

    Relationship Enrichment Retreat

    Perfect For

    Healthy couples who want to grow even stronger.

    Designed to deepen connection, improve communication and invest proactively in the relationship.

  6. VI

    Personal Renewal Retreat

    Perfect For

    Individuals seeking clarity, healing or personal growth.

    Offers individuals the opportunity to step away, reflect, reset and focus on emotional wellbeing.

A couple silhouetted against a fiery orange sunset sky
Where the journey begins
Alicia Oosthuizen, Umoya's couples coach
Meet Your Couples Coach

Alicia Oosthuizen

The Couples Coach Experience is led by Alicia Oosthuizen, an experienced Clinical Social Worker, relationship specialist and trainer with more than two decades of professional experience helping individuals, couples and families build healthier, stronger relationships. Her approach combines compassion, practical tools and evidence-based strategies to create an environment where couples feel understood, supported and empowered to grow together. Every experience is tailored to the unique needs of each couple, ensuring a personalised and meaningful journey.

Optional Enhancements
  • ·One-on-one couples coaching sessions
  • ·Personality and relationship assessments
  • ·Guided communication workshops
  • ·Relationship health check-ups
  • ·Goal-setting sessions
  • ·Celebration packages
  • ·Picnic experience
  • ·Sunset picnic experiences
  • ·Anniversary experiences
Your retreat. Your relationship. Your journey. At Umoya, we believe every relationship deserves the time, space and support to flourish. Because the greatest investment you will ever make is in each other.
Couples seeking reconnection

Who want to rebuild closeness and create meaningful time together.

Couples in need of restoration

Who are carrying weight they need help to set down.

Families wanting presence

Who want intentional time together away from screens and routine.

Individuals needing stillness

Who need to stop, breathe, and reconnect with themselves.

Partners celebrating

Anniversaries, milestones, and moments worth marking properly.

Anyone who needs to exhale

No explanation required. Umoya understands.

  • No spa menu
  • No concierge itinerary
  • No welcome cocktail
  • No scheduled activities
  • No other guests
  • No hurry
  • No distance from the mountain

Only the farm. Only the land. Only time.

I
Reconnect

With the land. With the silence. With yourself.

II
Restore

Through rest, food, and the rhythm of farm life.

III
Rebuild

Leave with something you did not arrive with.

The Magaliesberg has been doing this for two billion years. It will do it for you too.

Explore the Surrounding Area

Discover the best of the Magalies region.

Perfectly positioned between the peaceful bushveld and the vibrant attractions of the Hartbeespoort area, Umoya offers guests the best of both worlds. Whether you are looking for wildlife encounters, scenic adventures, local markets, family outings or unforgettable dining, you will find a wealth of activities just a short drive away. After a day of exploring, return to the comfort and serenity of your private retreat.

Wildlife Experiences
A cheetah resting on a sunlit mound in the bushveld
Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre
  • Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre

    An internationally recognised conservation centre offering guided tours with cheetahs, African wild dogs, vultures and other endangered species. The famous cheetah run is available on selected days.

  • Elephant Sanctuary Hartbeespoort

    An unforgettable hands-on educational experience with African elephants in a respectful conservation environment.

  • Bush Babies Monkey Sanctuary

    Walk through indigenous forest with knowledgeable guides while observing rescued primates living naturally.

  • Hartbeespoort Snake and Animal Park

    A wonderful family attraction featuring reptiles, birds and a variety of indigenous wildlife.

Adventure and Scenic Attractions
A wide scenic view over Hartbeespoort Dam under expansive clouds
Hartbeespoort Dam
  • Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway

    A scenic cable car ride to the summit of the Magaliesberg Mountains with breathtaking panoramic views, restaurants, walking trails and picnic areas.

  • Hartbeespoort Dam

    One of South Africa's favourite weekend destinations offering boat cruises, waterfront restaurants, cafés and spectacular sunsets.

  • The Magaliesberg

    Scenic hiking trails, mountain biking routes, birdwatching and beautiful viewpoints throughout the ancient mountain range.

Local Markets, Shopping and Dining
A rustic farm stall display with bread, preserves, figs and pomegranates
Local Farm Stall
  • Boutique shopping

    Curated boutiques and lifestyle stores tucked through the surrounding villages.

  • Local arts and crafts

    Galleries and studios showcasing the work of South African artists and makers.

  • Farm stalls

    Roadside farm stalls brimming with preserves, baked goods and seasonal produce.

  • Fresh local produce

    Seasonal fruit and vegetables grown by neighbouring farmers.

  • Gourmet coffee

    Small-batch roasters and cafés set against scenic backdrops.

  • Fine dining

    Country restaurants offering refined menus rooted in local ingredients.

  • Waterfront restaurants

    Tables on the water at Hartbeespoort, perfect for long, slow lunches.

  • Weekend markets

    Lively weekend markets full of food, music and handmade goods.

Family-Friendly Activities
  • Wildlife encounters

    Close, considered experiences with the region's protected wildlife.

  • Boat cruises

    Gentle cruises across Hartbeespoort Dam, ideal for golden-hour family outings.

  • Cableway adventures

    Ride to the summit of the Magaliesberg for unforgettable views.

  • Family-friendly restaurants

    Welcoming venues with relaxed menus and space for younger guests.

  • Nature walks

    Easy, scenic walks through the foothills and forests of the range.

  • Outdoor play areas

    Open-air playgrounds and gardens to roam and explore.

  • Adventure activities

    Zip-lining, quad trails and outdoor adventure parks for older children.

  • Local markets and shopping

    Weekend markets and family-friendly farm stalls within easy reach.

Golf Nearby

Golf enthusiasts will find several excellent courses within easy driving distance, offering beautiful fairways set against the backdrop of the Magaliesberg.

Spend your day exploring some of the region's most iconic attractions, then return to the peaceful surroundings of Umoya to enjoy a braai under the stars, relax beside the pool, or simply unwind in the comfort of your luxury accommodation. Adventure is always close by. Tranquillity is what you will come home to.
Magaliesberg, North West Province90 minutes from Johannesburg & PretoriaBy private enquiry only
Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before your stay.

Check-in is from 2:00 PM. Check-out is by 10:00 AM. If you require an earlier check-in or later check-out, please contact us in advance and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Yes. Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the retreat. That said, many guests choose to embrace the slower pace of Umoya and enjoy a digital detox while surrounded by nature.

To ensure the comfort of all guests and to protect the natural environment and resident farm animals, pets are unfortunately not permitted. Should you have a registered service animal, please contact us before making your reservation.

Accommodation is offered on a self-catering basis unless otherwise stated in your package. Selected packages include breakfast, and guests may also pre-order a breakfast hamper prior to arrival.

Absolutely. Each accommodation unit has its own private braai area. Braai packs and firewood may also be available as optional extras.

Yes. Blesbok Lodge and Acacia Lodge are ideal for families and groups. The Wild Olive and Aloe Suites are designed as peaceful retreats for two and are best suited to adult guests.

Yes. Complimentary secure on-site parking is available for all guests.

We have invested in backup power solutions to ensure your stay remains as comfortable as possible during load shedding. Essential services continue to operate so you can relax with minimal interruption.

More than 30 days before arrival: full refund, less any applicable administration fees. 15 to 30 days before arrival: 50% refund. Less than 14 days before arrival: no refund can be provided. If we are able to rebook your accommodation for the same dates, we will always do our best to assist.

Umoya is approximately 45 to 60 minutes from Johannesburg and Pretoria, making it the perfect destination for a weekend escape without travelling long distances.

Comfortable walking shoes, casual outdoor clothing, a jacket for cooler evenings, swimwear, your favourite braai treats, binoculars for bird watching, a good book and your camera. Most importantly, bring a willingness to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature.

Yes. We offer a variety of optional romantic enhancements including room decor, flowers, sparkling wine, celebration packages, private picnics and other memorable experiences.

Absolutely. Guests can enhance their stay by adding one of The Couples Coach experiences to their booking. Participation is entirely optional and can be arranged before or during your stay, subject to availability.

Yes. Umoya is the perfect setting for anniversaries, birthdays, engagements, proposals, honeymoons and intimate celebrations. Our team can assist with personalised touches to make your occasion truly unforgettable.

Still have questions? We would love to hear from you.

Enquire Now

Contact us directly.

For reservations, questions, or a private conversation about your stay, please reach out at any time.

info@umoyaretreat.co.za
Book Now

We aim to reply within 24 hours.

Your retreat begins with a single step.

Tell us a little about what you are looking for. We will reach out within 24 hours to begin creating your experience.

Private. Intentional. Created for you. The Couples Coach Experience at Umoya, Magaliesberg.
90 minutes from Johannesburg & Pretoria, Couples · Families · Individuals