Find Your Flow In Nature
Who We Are
Nestled in the heart of the Waterberg, Summerplace Game Reserve is more than a destination; it’s a legacy woven into the very fabric of the Baber family. For generations, we have been the custodians of this stunning 3,500-hectare expanse, a land where the sweet and sour veld tell stories of time, nature, and the human spirit.
Our journey began with farming, rooted in the soil and nurtured by the sun. Yet, as the seasons changed, so did our vision. The expansive landscapes called to us, whispering tales of adventure and connection. We transformed our love for the land into a passion for cycling, creating trails that not only traverse the beauty of the reserve but also connect people to its soul.
David, with his unwavering dedication, mapped out the trails that now wind through our sanctuary. As he pedaled through the diverse terrains, he uncovered hidden gems—a secret Kloof, a grove of ancient trees that stand as sentinels of time. Each ride deepened his bond with the land, revealing its most special features and the life thriving within it.
In our pursuit of conservation and community, we partnered with Paul and Ash. Their arrival marked a new chapter, rich with enthusiasm and a shared commitment to protecting our natural heritage. Together, we introduced roan and tsessebe to our reserve, breathing life into our conservation efforts. Paul’s passion shines brightly, reminding us all that preserving our environment is not just a responsibility but a privilege.
At Summerplace, we have cultivated a space where you can move, relax, indulge, and connect. Whether it’s the thrill of cycling through untamed wilderness or the tranquility of watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and purple, every moment is an invitation to embrace the beauty around you.
Hospitality runs through our veins. We believe in creating an experience that feels like home, where laughter echoes and friendships blossom under the African sun. Our family is dedicated to ensuring that everyone who steps onto this land feels the warmth of our welcome and the magic of our surroundings.
As you journey through Summerplace Game Reserve, know that you are part of our story—a narrative of passion, connection, and the enduring spirit of the Waterberg. Welcome to our home. Welcome to our family. Welcome to Summerplace.
Accommodation
Tucked into the hills and valleys of 3 500 hectares of untouched bushveld, Summerplace offers 22 private units, from elegant villas to luxury Hideout Tents. Each space is shaped by its setting — surrounded by birdsong, dappled light, and wide-open views. Here, mornings are slow. Afternoons stretch out. Evenings settle in with the sound of jackals calling in the distance. Whether you’re here to rest, explore, or simply breathe, our stays are designed to help you feel grounded in nature and far from everything else. Only 2½ hours from Johannesburg and Pretoria, but it feels like a world away.
Restaurant
At the heart of Summerplace is our restaurant, where chef Dylan Jonsson brings creativity, warmth, and years of experience to every plate. Meals are made fresh, from scratch, using seasonal ingredients and often paired with stories from the kitchen. Start your day with a hearty breakfast, linger over a long lunch, or book a three-course dinner that showcases Dylan’s signature flavours. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are always available. Whether you’re sharing amazing pizza under the stars or dining on your stoep with the sounds of the bush around you, the Summerplace dining experience is as relaxed as it is memorable.
Nature & Conservation
Summerplace is home to a thriving ecosystem, where over 100 bird species and more than 40 large mammals, including giraffe, zebra, and rare antelope, roam freely across the reserve’s diverse landscapes. From self-guided bush walks and guided sundowner game drives to chance encounters right from your cottage stoep, wildlife experiences here feel personal and unhurried. It’s nature on its own terms, quiet, beautiful, and always just a moment away.
Mountain Biking
Recognised as one of South Africa’s top mountain biking destinations, Summerplace offers over 160 km of purpose-built singletrack winding through river valleys, open plains, rocky ridges, and bushveld terrain. Whether you’re a first-time rider, a weekend warrior, or a seasoned racer, there’s a route for every pace and skill level. Choose from flowing descents, punchy climbs, or gentle scenic loops, all clearly signed and expertly maintained. With premium Specialized mountain bikes and e-bikes available to rent, plus trail gear and guide support, everything you need for an unforgettable ride is right here.
Trail Running
With over 160 km of professionally built and clearly signed singletrack, Summerplace is a dream for trail runners. The routes wind through riverbeds, climb rocky ridgelines, and roll across open bushveld, offering a mix of terrain to suit casual joggers and elite athletes alike. Whether you’re chasing sunrise solitude, training for your next ultra, or enjoying a relaxed jog with friends, the trails at Summerplace are built to move with the land, not against it, making every run feel natural, grounded, and inspiring.
Weddings
Whether you’re exchanging vows beneath indigenous trees or hosting a strategy session with a view, Summerplace offers a one-of-a-kind setting for unforgettable gatherings. Our open-air chapel overlooks the Summergeti, while the main venue can accommodate up to 100 guests for weddings, conferences, or private retreats. With multiple private units spread across the reserve, plus warm, attentive support from our team, every detail is thoughtfully handled. From full-reserve buy-outs to intimate celebrations, Summerplace blends natural beauty with quiet sophistication, far from the city, but close to the heart.
Corporate Retreats
Nestled in the heart of the Waterberg, Summerplace Game Reserve is the perfect destination for boutique corporate retreats. With exceptional premium accommodation facilities, world-class cuisine, and epic mountain biking trails, Summerplace rivals the best as South Africa’s premier choice for exclusive corporate getaways.
