This past weekend I did something I’ve never done before… I WENT CAMPING! And not just any camping — we set up our little home-away-from-home at Berg River Resort in Paarl, and honestly? I’m obsessed.

We arrived with all our gear (well… almost all 😅) and got straight into it. Setting up the tent, laying out our picnic spot, and laughing our way through figuring it all out was such a vibe. There’s something super satisfying about creating your little outdoor nest — especially when you’ve got sushi, Castle Lite, and Woolies snacks keeping you company (shoutout to our unofficial sponsor, Woolies 🫶).

After setting up, we lit the braai and tucked into our sushi under the trees. It was giving luxury-meets-bushveld and I was so here for it.

…Until Darren realised he forgot the mattress pump 🙃. But never fear — the lovely people at reception were total lifesavers and had one we could borrow! So we blew it up right there, strapped it to the car roof, and awkwardly drove it back to our site like the little camping clowns we are.

Over the next few days we braaied every night, explored the grounds, chilled on the swings, seesaw, and jungle gym, and just soaked in the crisp Berg River air. The on-site shop/café was a gem — stocked with everything you could need if you forgot something: Blitz, firewood, ice cream, chip twisters, cigarettes, and even a cute little bar.

Bonus highlight: we spotted the cutest glamping setup that someone owns and rents out. Think: a full-on boujee birthday weekend dream. It had a jacuzzi, air-conditioned rooms, a kitchen, a bar, a hammock, and a cozy little deck area. Everything was already set up and styled perfectly — all you’d need to bring is your food, drinks, and best self. You literally just arrive and start living your soft life. Um… yes please?

We also did a bit of fishing, popped into Paarl town to explore a bit, and were enjoying ourselves so much that we extended our stay another night. At just R400 per night for two people, it felt like the ultimate budget-friendly escape.

Only small downside? They’re strict on music volume, so no party playlists pumping after hours — but honestly, the birds and braai crackles make a pretty good soundtrack too.

Final verdict: 9/10
Camping girl era officially unlocked. Already dreaming of my next trip (and maybe booking that glamping setup 👀).

Sincerely yours,

Vamoose