On river.You'll be within half a mile (1 km) of Drostdy Museum and 2 miles (3 km) of Swellendam Golf Course with a stay here. Swellendam Hiking Trail is within 3 miles (5 km) and Bontebok National Park is within 9 miles (15 km).
Dutch Reformed Church Swellendam - 17 min walk - 0.9 miles
Swellendam Golf Course - 6 min drive - 2.2 miles
Swellendam Hiking Trail - 8 min drive - 2.8 miles
Star Nation Art Studio and Gallery - 48 min drive - 40.1 miles
Restaurants
Oude Post Bistro - 9 min drive
Grace + Merci - 16 min walk
Tredici - 4 min drive
Republic of Swellendam - 10 min walk
The Connection, Swellendam - 8 min walk
About this property
A Riverbed Guesthouse
4-star adults-only aparthotel near Drostdy Museum
As a guest of A Riverbed Guesthouse, you'll find an outdoor pool, a terrace, and barbecue grills. WiFi is free in public spaces. A Riverbed Guesthouse also features a garden, a picnic area, and a front-desk safe. Self parking is free.
Smoking is allowed in designated areas at this 4-star Swellendam aparthotel.
4 guestrooms or units
Poolside lounge chairs
Umbrellas for the pool
Breakfast available (surcharge)
Front desk (limited hours)
Storage area for luggage
Front-desk safe
Terrace
Garden
BBQ grill(s)
Outdoor picnic space
Smoking in designated areas
A Riverbed Guesthouse offers 4 air-conditioned accommodations, which are accessible via exterior corridors and feature safes and complimentary bottled water. Rooms open to patios. These individually decorated and furnished accommodations have separate sitting areas and include desks. Beds feature Egyptian cotton sheets and premium bedding. Accommodations at this 4-star aparthotel have kitchenettes with full-sized refrigerators/freezers, stovetops, microwaves, and cookware/dishes/utensils. Bathrooms include complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.
This Swellendam aparthotel provides complimentary wireless Internet access. 43-inch Smart televisions come with premium satellite channels. Additionally, rooms include coffee/tea makers and blackout drapes/curtains. Housekeeping is provided daily.
Daily self-serve breakfast available 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM for a fee: ZAR 150 per person
Couples/private dining
Bedrooms
Egyptian cotton sheets
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Hair dryer
Private bathroom
Towels provided
Living spaces
Separate sitting area
Entertainment
43-inch smart TV with premium satellite channels
Outdoor areas
Barbecue grill
Firepit
Free firewood
Fully-fenced
Garden
Outdoor furniture
Patio
Picnic area
Terrace
Walkway to water
Yard
Work spaces
Laptop workspace
Comfort
Air conditioning
Heating
Pets
No pets allowed
Suitability/Accessibility
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
No elevator
Wheelchair accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible parking
Designated smoking areas
Services and conveniences
Blackout drapes
Daily housekeeping
Free bottled water
Guidebooks
Limited-hour front desk
Local maps
Luggage storage
Restaurant dining guides
Safe
Safe at front desk
Location highlights
In the mountains
In the suburbs
On a river
Things to do
Hiking/biking trails
Horseback riding nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Mountain climbing nearby
Safety features
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Security system
Fire extinguisher
General
4 units
Access via exterior corridors
Garden
Individual decor
Individual furnishings
Soundproofing
Policies
Check-in
Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: 5:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 16
Check-out
Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
The front desk is open daily from 8:00 AM - 5 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 5:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Guests should be aware that 2 dogs reside at this property
This property enforces quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Access methods
Front desk (limited hours)
Pets
No pets allowed
Children and extra beds
Children younger than 16 are not allowed at this adults-only property. All guests 16 and older are welcome.
Rollaway/extra beds are not available.
Cribs (infant beds) are not available.
Property payment types
Important information
Optional extras
The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.
Fee for self-serve breakfast: approximately ZAR 150 per person
This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a security system, and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is professionally cleaned
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession. This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, debit cards, and cash. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a security system, and a first aid kit in each accommodation. The property is professionally cleaned.
We should mention
This is an adults-only property and guests under 16 years old aren't allowed.
National rating
Quality Graded by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) – South Africa's official quality assurance organization.
Property is also known as
Riverbed Guesthouse Apartment Swellendam
Riverbed Guesthouse Apartment
Riverbed Guesthouse Swellendam
Riverbed Guesthouse
A Riverbed Swellendam
A Riverbed Guesthouse Aparthotel
A Riverbed Guesthouse Swellendam
A Riverbed Guesthouse Aparthotel Swellendam
Frequently asked questions
Does A Riverbed Guesthouse have an airport shuttle?
Airport shuttle services are not available at A Riverbed Guesthouse.
How much does it cost to stay at A Riverbed Guesthouse?
As of Jun 3, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at A Riverbed Guesthouse on Jun 5, 2026 start from $132, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Does A Riverbed Guesthouse offer free breakfast?
Free breakfast isn’t provided at A Riverbed Guesthouse, but self-serve breakfast is offered for a fee of ZAR 150 per person. It's available every day from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
Is there a casino at A Riverbed Guesthouse?
No, there is no casino at this aparthotel.
What time is check-in at A Riverbed Guesthouse?
Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: 5:00 PM.
Is there free parking at A Riverbed Guesthouse?
This aparthotel offers free self parking.
Does A Riverbed Guesthouse have a pool?
A Riverbed Guesthouse features an outdoor pool.
Does A Riverbed Guesthouse have a spa?
There are no spa services available at this aparthotel.
How close is A Riverbed Guesthouse to downtown Swellendam?
A Riverbed Guesthouse is 1.3 mi away from Swellendam.
A Riverbed Guesthouse Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 37 out of 40 reviews
10 - Excellent
37
Rating 8 - Good. 3 out of 40 reviews
8 - Good
3
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 40 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 40 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 40 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
10/10
Cleanliness
9.6/10
Staff & service
10/10
Amenities
10/10
Property conditions & facilities
Reviews
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Neil
Nov 27, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort, communication
Immaculate hotel with all of the amwniti s you would need for a short break. Stunning setting and the hostess was incredibly helpful offering good insights into the surrounding area
Neil
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Esther
Jan 1, 2026
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort, communication
We had a great stay here - the pool was heated at an ideal temperature, the room was clean and very spacious, and Melani was very friendly and helpful whenever we needed assistance. Also, the accommodation is situated in a safe and quiet area, with different cafés and restaurants within walking distance. We can highly recommend this lovely place!
Esther
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Michael
Nov 10, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort, communication
Best ever during our Garden Route Trip
Michael
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Carolin
Dec 30, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Overall a fantastic stay at Melani‘s Place. Very clean, nice and quiet guest house
Carolin
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Deborah
Jan 23, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort, communication
A real gem
A stunning place to stay with a wonderful host.
Deborah
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Niamh
May 3, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort, communication
Great overnight stay in amazing setting
My husband and I had a wonderful stay, sadly only for one night but this property is beautiful with great views a huge garden and pool. Safe to walk into the village and secure overnight parking. Everything was relaxed and so clean we loved it!
Niamh
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2023
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Bridget
Mar 10, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Had a lovely time at Riverbed. A warm welcome, great recommendation for local restaurant and pick up arrangements with Sonja. Would stay again if in swellendam
Bridget
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Lee
Oct 24, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort, communication
We had an amazing stay. Melani was a gracious host and very approachable and friendly. We liked the breakfast ingredients in our refrigerator. It was fun to make our own breakfast and enjoy it on our patio at our leisure. The dogs on the property are gentle giants. Everything on property feels clean and modern and the rooms are private and large. I would not hesitate to book again!
Lee
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Melvin
Feb 3, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort, communication
Swellendam
Absolutely stunning property with beautiful gardens and pool.
Very comfortable with full amenities.
Melvin
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Hiromi
Sep 22, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort, communication
Perfect place stay in a quaint town
This is a beautiful accommodation nested in a quiet neighborhood in Swellemdam. The room is so spacious and bright with an amazing view of the mountain! Restaurants and great coffee shops are nearby. If you are planning a drive through Garden Route and surrounding areas, you should consider making a stop at Swellendam and stay in Riverbed Guesthouse!!
Hiromi
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Sujata
Sep 30, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
We loved our stay here. It’s everything you want in a hotel. Small, clean, modern, simple. Great views, close to town, terrific hosts. Fridge fully stocked with breakfast items, tea, and coffee. A little kitchenette to make a big breakfast and a gorgeous patio in the sun overlooking the mountains and the pool to eat it. You will not be disappointed!
Sujata
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2022
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Natisha
Apr 18, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort, communication
Beautiful stay!
Amazing hospitality from Melani! Perfect escape for relaxation and getting in touch with nature. Our rooms were modern and well equipped with stunning views of the mountains. There was access to hiking trails directly from the property. We really enjoyed walking into town and lazing around the heated pool. Added joy of having the most well behaved and loving dogs we have ever met! Even if you are not a dog lover, Kenya and Luca will respect your space. Can’t wait to return!
Natisha
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Menno
Jan 14, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Melani’s place is fantastic. It has a great swimming pool and a magnificent mountain view. The apartment has everything it needs. Very nice big bed and a very good bathroom and shower. The breakfast has everything you need. Make your own eggs the way you want them. The two big dogs are very sweet and relaxed and keep you save from the baboons :)
Menno
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
shirley
Mar 24, 2025
Liked: Room comfort
Amazing! The greeting by Marlarnie was so friendly & welcoming & informative. The gardens & pool are so beautifully tended. The pool is heated to a perfect temperature, the lodge was bright & spacious & spotlessly clean with everything we needed. We even had our own patio area to sit out & watch the morning birds with the stunning mountains in the back drop. The river at the bottom of the garden, which had stepping stones that led into the woods clearly sign posted & a clear path to follow was the icing on the cake, loved everything & we would go back.
shirley
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Christoph
Nov 15, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Die Unterkunft ist sehr modern und stylisch eingerichtet. Die Gastgeberin ist sehr nett! Wir haben uns sehr wohl gefühlt.
Christoph
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Fabian
Mar 23, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Eine wunderbare Unterkunft mit einem herrlichen Blick ins Grüne und die Berge. Die Zimmer sind wahnsinnig modern und hübsch gestaltet. Die Betten waren bequem, die Badezimmer richtig komfortabel. Die Zimmer waren sehr geräumig und praktisch. Die Klimaanlage war angenehm leise. Alles war sehr sauber.
Die Gastgeberin war sehr nett und hat uns allerlei Informationen gegeben.
Die Gegend ist sicher und richtig nett. Wir würden jederzeit wiederkommen.
Fabian
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Luise
Aug 17, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, room comfort, communication
Tolle Lage mit Ausblick ,wunderschöner Außenbereich, nette Gastgeber
Luise
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Andrea
Mar 23, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Das Zimmer ist sehr geräumig und geschmackvoll eingerichtet. Besonders hat mir der Pool mit Blick in die Berge gefallen
Andrea
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Luisa
Oct 22, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
A warm welcome from Melani, very well designed & equipped lodges, a peaceful setting in the garden - alongside the river & with a great pool. This was great place to stay - and thoughtfully Melani had reserved a local restaurant for dinner - great service!
Tolles Apartment, fantastischer Pool und sehr netter Kontakt vor Ort.
Sehr zu empfehlen.
Nice apartment, fantastic pool and very nice hosts.
Highly recommended.
Alles fanden wir in einem wunderbaren Zustand vor! Eigentlich muß man nicht das Guesthouse verlassen um seinen Urlaub zu genießen. Das Frühstück war einfach super da wir es selbst es zubereiten konnten wann immer wir es wollten. Ein herzliches Dankeschön an Melanie unsere Vermieterin.
Thank you so much and we will come back again!!!!!!