Quirky hotels - trailers, ox wagons, tree houses and even a castle (3)

TTsala Treetop Lodge, Harkerville

From the entrance of formidable stone and water features to the foyer flanked by blackwoods, this setting in the trees is unlike any house you’ve ever stayed in. With the forest treetops enveloping you and the clatter of monkeys calling, Tsala is a place of comfort and high-end design. Choose from treetop villas or suites, indulge in delicious food and enjoy the wonderful service.

Daddy Long Legs Art Hotel, Cape Town

This is a budget accommodation known for its awesome design and friendly, helpful staff. Situated in Long Street, the Daddy Long Legs Art Hotel is like sleeping in an art gallery. Each room was created by an interior design team that included an artist, poet, photographer and musician.

Tanda Tula Field Camp, Timbavati Game Reserve

In 1976, the first-ever luxury tented safari camp was set up in the Timbavati Game Reserve. The Tanda Tula Field Camp is made up of just four tents. In the old style of East African game safaris, there is also a communal lounge tent where guests gather to share stories at the end of the day. The specific location is a prime game-spotting area, so be prepared for the sound of grunting lions and laughing hyenas late at night.

SSantos Express, Mossel Bay

Get on board a train that won’t be leaving the station. Just 30m from the Mossel Bay beach, the Santos Express is a train that offers backpacker-style accommodation in private cabooses. With the most incredible view, you’ll be glad to stay put. If you can, book the Royal Ladies caboose and settle into style.

12 Decades Art Hotel, Maboneng

This budget hotel chronicles 12 decades of the Joburg story with rooms designed by some of the city’s most prominent artists and designers. Situated in the Maboneng Precinct, it’s the perfect place to explore the neighbourhood of galleries, restaurants and shops. Make sure you’re there for the weekend Market on Main to see why Joburgers are known as such cool, friendly people.

Oxwagon Lodge

If you’re in the Hartbeespoort Dam area, you could relive the trekboer experience and spend the night in an ossewa (ox-wagon). Though truthfully, this isn’t the same as the olden days. Kitted with comfortable beds and a small house on the side for you to change and keep your bags in, you’ll be sleeping much better than the trekkers ever did. You’ll also start the day with a champagne breakfast. For backpackers, there is also a double-decker bus on site.