Fountain Baths Guest Cottages

Fountain Baths Guest Cottages is a historic accommodation establishment located at the foot of the Makhonjwa Mountain Range in Barberton, South Africa. Originally built in 1884 as a bathhouse for gold diggers, the property features the oldest swimming pool in the Old Transvaal and extensive gardens that extend to the mountain's base.

The establishment offers seven individually decorated cottages, accommodating between two and four guests each. Four cottages are equipped with basic self-catering facilities, while three units feature bar fridges and kettles. All cottages have private entrances leading to the garden or pool area and en-suite bathrooms. The family cottages can accommodate up to four people with double and single bed configurations.

The property is renowned for its wildlife visitors, including vervet monkeys, bush babies, baboons, and various bird species such as the Narina Trogon, Emerald Cuckoo, and Knysna Turaco. Home-cooked meals and traditional South African braais are available by prior arrangement.

Situated within walking distance of Barberton town, the guest house serves as an ideal base for exploring local attractions. Nearby points of interest include the Barberton Museum, Dusty Tracks Private Mining Museum, and various historical mining ghost towns. The area achieved World Heritage status in 2018 due to its geological significance, featuring some of the oldest preserved geological sites dating back over 3.5 billion years. Visitors can explore the 38km Geo-Trail on the R40 to the Swazi border either with a guide or through a self-drive option.

The establishment has received recognition as a Top Rated Pet Friendly Destination and was voted Best Establishment in Barberton for 2015 in Sleeping-OUT's Guest Satisfaction Awards.