Citrusdal is one of the easiest family weekends from Cape Town — two hours up the N7, safe and low-key, with a warm hot spring the kids can swim in, horse trails, farm stalls and the river. No queues, no crowds — quiet, and as close to nature as you can get — just space to run around. This is how to plan it with young children.
The family weekend at a glance
| Drive from Cape Town | About 176 km on the N7 — roughly 2 hours |
|---|---|
| Best length | Two nights (Friday to Sunday) |
| The anchor | The Baths — a warm pool fed by the 43 °C spring |
| Kid favourites | Swimming, horse trails, farm stalls, the river |
| Where to stay | The Baths chalets/camping, or Citrus Creek |
| Best season | Autumn and spring; winter for the spring, summer for the river |
| Book ahead | Yes — weekends and school holidays fill up |
Distances and timings are approximate — see getting here for the full route.
Saturday — the hot spring and the farm
Start at The Baths. The warm pool is fed by the 43 °C spring, and there is a cold pool for contrast — kids love the back-and-forth. The water is genuinely hot, so keep an eye on little ones and let them cool off in the cold pool.
After a swim, head to De Tol at the Carmién tea farm for lunch and a wander — farm-stall treats, rooibos, and space to stretch. In the afternoon, a horse trail is the classic kid highlight, and the valley has gentle options suited to beginners. Things to do ›
Sunday — the river and the road home
In summer, the Olifants River is the morning plan — swimming and paddling in the valley heat. River levels change through the year, so ask locally about safe access points rather than picking a spot off a map.
Then a slow breakfast, one last swim, and the two-hour drive home. If you want to stretch the trip, the Cederberg has easy walks that suit older kids. The Cederberg ›
Where a family should stay
The most convenient is The Baths — chalets, flats and camping right at the spring, so the pool is never far away. It books by phone, and weekends carry a two-night minimum.
Citrus Creek and other valley spots also offer family-friendly chalets and camping with room to run. Book well ahead for weekends and school holidays. Where to stay ›
School holidays and long weekends are the busiest time in the valley. If you can, go midweek or just outside the holidays — quieter, cheaper, and more room at the pool. When to visit ›
What to pack for the kids
- Swimwear and towels — you will be in the water a lot
- Sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
- Walking shoes for the farm and the Cederberg
- A warm layer — mountain nights are cold
- Water bottles — more than you think
- Snacks for the drive and the farm
Family weekend — quick questions
Is the hot spring safe for young kids?
It is family-friendly, but the water is genuinely hot. Supervise closely and use the cold pool to cool off.
Are there horse rides for beginners?
Yes — the valley has horse trails suited to beginners and children. Confirm ages and booking with the operator before you go.
Is there enough to do for two nights?
Easily. The spring, the farm, the river and the Cederberg fill a weekend without rushing.
Last updated August 2026 · prices and opening hours vary — confirm with each business before you travel