Our pick of eco-lodges, cool guesthouses and rondavels make ideal bases for exploring South Africa’s Indian Ocean coast
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Swell Eco Lodge, Mngcibe
Offering a stylish and serene alternative to the sometimes rowdy backpacker lodges in nearby Coffee Bay, Swell Eco Lodge is a clutch of thatched rondavels on a grassy hillside at the mouth of the Mdumbi river, with sweeping ocean views. Each unit is spacious, with handmade furniture and cute, upcycled touches, such as plant pots and toothbrush holders made from old cans and jamjars. Power comes from a wind turbine, and the lodge conserves mains water thanks to a borehole and rainwater collection tanks. It’s a wonderfully remote spot – at night you’re dazzled by a dome of stars.
• Self-catering rondavels for two from £38, +27 72 346 5636, swellecolodge.com