About

Zoete Inval is one of those places that is REally “out of the box”, because it is simply “home” … to the owners and travellers alike. The Dutch name means “sweet drop in” or sweet welcome. Serving traveller’s needs since 1993, it is still going strong. Their REtro-ECO theme runs throughout. Heritage furniture and quality linens coupled with ECO-creative touches provides “home from home” comfort. Gardens envelop the heritage home and the veggie/herb patch provides fresh gREens year-round. Touches like the REpurposed wine barrel hammock and the REtyrement furniture ensure REst and RElaxation for weary travellers or holiday makers. Healthy REfueling starts with one of their breakfast options with homemade muesli, preserves and fresh fruit. OR order a protein power punch and their fabulous filter coffee from the menu. REdiscover the garden hideouts and smoker’s corners awaiting to swallow you in the REfreshing gREenery. They are eager to share the practical, simple and fulfilling world as was Created.

South African Grading Council - 4 star rated it is owner operated in a historical home. This backpacker's hostel / guesthouse feels like a 'slice of the country' conveniently located 10 minutes walk from the central business district, seaside and 5 minutes walk from Fernkloof Nature Reserve mountain hikes (join us on a morning dip in the sea). There is a serious ECO commitment , with a 'home from home' atmosphere. They are down to earth 'green'.

The HOUSE has 7 private rooms: for families, doubles or twins (single rate for those traveling alone). The LOFT houses two dormitories and a basic double. Amenities include: 2 TV lounges, fireside library, balconies, sundeck with outdoor Jacuzzi (call ahead, additional cost applies), shady courtyard with hammock & water feature, self-catering kitchen with BBQ facilities, Limited secure parking on first come first serve basis.

Additional services include, Free Wi-Fi, meals by arrangement, we are licensed by the South African Liquor Board (corkage applies), laundry services (by arrangement). Be sure to let us book all your local activities to avoid disappointment. If you bring children, there is a playpark 2 blocks away.

Hermanus is best known as the 'home of the best land-based whale watching in the world' but it has far more to offer. From July through December, Southern Right Whales can be seen incredibly close to shore. No need for binocs, just join a guided walk along the cliff paths that stretch from the harbour on the west to the pristine sandy beaches on the east. The mountain backdrop to town provides established hiking trails as well as a mountain top drive for a panoramic view of Walker Bay. The town provides excellent shopping, restaurants & pubs.
Local Attractions & Activities:
Personalized Tours by our onsite guide AND Great White Shark viewing & cage diving trips, Cape Agulhas (southern tip of Africa), wine tours, Hermanus Orientation Tour (for those arriving by public transport), harbour to harbour kayaking trips, boat trips to the whales, hikes, horseback riding (beach or mountain rides), local wine tours (are a MUST!), township tours, scuba diving, quad biking, forest adventures, sandboarding. As well as tours to: Big Cat Farm, SA National Space Agency, Abalone Hatchery, and more.

Baz-Bus tickets may be purchased online and we can organize airport transfers and shuttle services.

As well as being eco-friendly (check out the recycle system and worm composting). The owners are committed to the support of local community. Check out the 20-year young, Recycle 'Swop' Shop (www.recycle-swop-shop.co.za) where kids can bring tins and bottles to swap for things they want and need. I

House Rules

Check In

02:00 - 21:00

Check Out

until 10:00

  • Taxes Included
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Facilities

  • Free Parking
  • Free City Maps
  • Free WiFi
  • Free Internet Access
  • Free Security Lockers
  • Adaptors
  • Covid-19 safe
  • Airport Transfers
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Reviews

6.4Good(181)
  • Value for Money
    6.5
  • Security
    7.0
  • Atmosphere
    5.5
  • Cleanliness
    6.5
  • Staff
    6.0
  • Location
    6.5
  • Facilities
    6.5
Stayed in Oct 2026
2.0
M
Maurice
Male, 25-30, Germany
The guy at the reception, his name is Sebi told us when we arrived that they don’t want to work with Hostelworld and they did not check the reservations and just booked the rooms for other bookings. So basically we couldn’t stay but he said he’ll make “arrangements”. Later that day he said to come back he fixed us the guest house. We paid the remaining amount (for both days). The next day he said no one cancelled and we have to move out, promised we get reimbursed. Now we are left on read!
Stayed in Mar 2026
8.9
S
Simon
Male, 25-30, Switzerland
Great Staff, Great Vibe (very quiet), cool places to chill in the garden, cool old house. Shower could use some love
Stayed in Aug 2024
7.7
L
Lusanda
Female, 25-30, South Africa
it's okay
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Location

23 Main Road, Hermanus, South Africa
0.8km from city centre