Dune Lodge

What was Hout Bay backpackers has recently gone under renovations to offer guests an improved and more comfortable experience, from the same location. The harbour, beach, a selection of restaurants, bars and shops are all within walking distance of Dune Lodge which is conveniently located, yet secluded location. Ideal for adventurists, there is a wonderful proximity to hiking routes, bike trails along Chapman’s Peak and surfing opportunities in Llandadno (a little over 6km away). Since you are across the road from the beach, runners and swimmers alike are treated on warmer days.

What very few know about Dune Lodge is that it had its start as a volunteer’s lodging for All Out Africa – a youth outreach program with connections eSwatini, Mozambique and South Africa. When Kim Roques founded the backpackers in 2010, the mission remained the same; to eradicate both poverty and hunger, and improve education. While the lodge is still big on community engagement and upliftment, it became clear that having financially accessible accommodation for all who would like to travel was important. The upscale backpackers was the first of its kind in Hout Bay when it opened. Now, it sits as an institution that promotes philanthropy.

The family rooms all have a queen bed, bunk bed and private bathroom with shower and toilet. Each of the rooms also boasts a wonderful sea view. While there is a bar fridge in the rooms, guests are not permitted to eat in their rooms – all meals must be eaten in the communal area.

There are two 4-bed dormitories on the property that have a wonderful view of Chapman’s Peak. They open out onto a shared balcony where guests can enjoy the sunset, making them ideal for students traveling together or bigger mixed groups looking for reasonably priced accommodation.

Lastly, the two 6-bed dormitories found on the lower level. Three sets of bunk beds sit neatly in the spacious dorm. It’s worth noting that all dormitories are co-ed and have a dedicated bathroom with a shower. On the first floor, there is a communal kitchen, lounge, balcony and firepit/braai area that guests are welcome to use at their leisure. Not only are there a number of board games and books to help guests unwind, but there are DVDs that can be played on the TV. There is also off street parking that guests can make use of.

Providing guests a place to stay isn’t where the Dune Lodge team’s responsibilities stop. Should you need recommendations on where to eat, what to do and how to give back, the dedicated staff have a wealth of knowledge about the area and they are happy to help interested guests. Additionally, should you need restaurant reservations made, or bookings for excursions, the reception staff will extend the concierge offering to you who are on site from 8am until 8pm daily.

Children: There are four allocated family rooms where children can be accommodated, however children cannot stay in the dorms.

Sustainability: There are no apparent sustainability practices at Dune Lodge.

Ethicality: Over 60% of the staff at Dune Lodge are women of colour who live in the area. Kim Roques is passionate about upskilling her team so while they may have all started in a specific role, they have gained additional skills along the way. Additionally, Dune Lodge actively supports the following organisations: Wild Horizons Retreat, Benka Lifestyle, Swazi-Lizkhar Sports Horses, Hlane Royal National Park, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Mkhaya Game Reserve and Chubeka Trails to name a few.

Mobility: Unfortunately, there are multiple staircases to access different areas of Dune Lodge which would make it difficult for those in wheelchairs.