Hogsback is a charming, small one-street town in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Known for its misty forests, waterfalls, and magical scenery, Hogsback is often claimed to be the inspiration behind J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. While Tolkien was born in South Africa and reportedly visited Hogsback in his early years, whether the town truly inspired Middle-earth remains a mystery.
What’s not a mystery, though, is that Hogsback feels straight out of a fairytale. If you’re backpacking in South Africa, this off-the-beaten-path town should be on your itinerary.
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Away With the Fairies Hostel – The Best Hostel in South Africa?
If you’re planning a trip to Hogsback, staying at Away With the Fairies Hostel is an absolute must. This cozy and quirky hostel has become famous worldwide for its unique bathtub with a view (more on that below), its central location for hiking trails, and the friendly, social atmosphere where you can meet fellow travelers.
The hostel offers dorms, private rooms, and camping options, making it suitable for all kinds of travelers. I stayed in a private room slightly isolated from the main building, which was perfect for some peace and quiet after a few nights in busy dorms. Whether you’re backpacking in South Africa or just looking for a magical place to unwind, Away With the Fairies Hostel in Hogsback is hard to beat.
The World-Famous Bathtub
Before I even arrived in Hogsback, I had heard about the world-famous bathtub at Away With the Fairies. I had seen pictures on Instagram and couldn’t wait to check it out. Imagine taking a bath outdoors, surrounded by misty forests and mountains – the view is breathtaking! This bathtub alone is worth the trip to Hogsback, South Africa, and it’s a highlight for travelers seeking unique experiences.
Where else in the world can you take a bath outside and have a view like this?!
Explore Hogsback and the Outdoors
Hogsback is a paradise for nature lovers. One of the best ways to explore the area is by hiking its numerous trails. You can trek through ancient forests, along rivers, past waterfalls, and up to viewpoints overlooking the stunning Eastern Cape landscapes. Each trail is a chance to get inspired by nature and soak in the magical atmosphere that makes Hogsback so special.
Whether you enjoy gentle walks or challenging hikes, Hogsback’s trails offer something for everyone. And if you’re staying at Away With the Fairies Hostel, many of the hikes start right at the hostel, making it easy to explore the area.
How to Get to Hogsback
I traveled by Baz Bus while backpacking in South Africa, but they don’t go directly to Hogsback. Luckily, Away With the Fairies Hostel offers a shuttle from East London or Chintsa. If the shuttle isn’t running on your travel day, you can take a City to City bus from East London to Alice and arrange a pickup from the hostel.
If you’re planning your South Africa itinerary, Hogsback should not be missed. From its magical landscapes to the best hostel in South Africa for backpackers, it’s a place that will stay in your memory long after your trip. Whether you’re soaking in the famous bathtub, hiking through misty forests, or simply enjoying the small-town charm, Hogsback offers a unique travel experience in South Africa.
👉 You can book Away With the Fairies Hostel on Booking.com.
Make sure to include Hogsback in your South African itinerary!
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20 comments
Fascinating bathtub but is that bathtub dirty? And how do you get privacy?
It’s far away from the hostel and behind the trees. There’s also a “gate” and if it’s closed someone is having a bath.
OMG! I love the settings of this hostel but that bathtub! I would so love to have a bath and enjoy the view at the same time 🙂 Fantastic review and totally would consider staying here 🙂
This places is a must if you travel to South Africa!
Incredible setting. I know so little about South African geography. This area looks beautiful. (Even though its bathtubs appear dry. 😉 )
Haha, it’s an outdoor bathtub 😀
What beautiful photography! That bathtub shot is awesome. The mountains in Eastern Cape Province are amazing.
Thanks!
I had no idea this place was rumored to be the inspiration for LOTR – and even if it’s not true, I love the story! And I’ve seen that bathtub so many times! There really is nowhere else in the world where you can have a bath with a view like that!
Yes, the bathtub was amazing!!
I have to look for photos of this bathtub on Instagram. This is the first time that I have seen this. Your photos of Hogsback make me think that this place is really a good source of inspiration for J.R. Tolkien. It is such a beautiful place like a perfect getaway. The facade of the private rooms looks nice. I am sure it is cozy and pleasant inside.
I saw the bathtub for the first time on Instagram! 😀
Ha haa, never heard about this bathtube before but now I want to try it also myself. No wonder it is so famous with a view like that . . .
You have to try if you travel to South Africa!
Wow that bathtub is amazing! Do they have camping options in the bathtub lol! Such a beautiful area, no wonder it was the inspiration for Lord of the Rings. I love that they have options for private rooms, dorms and camping – nice that everyone can experience the region and accommodation no matter their travel preference 🙂
Yes, everyone can enjoy this amazing bathtub 😀
I have seen pictures of this place before. Now, I know where this place is and what it is called. I will have to check it out when I visit South Africa one day! Looks like a great place!
I hope you can visit one day 🙂
This place is amazing! So good to know that it maybe is a inspiration for Tolkien movie.
Yes, it was amazing 🙂