A holiday out in nature is always a good idea. What's even more fun is taking your clothes off while you're at it. Nudism or naturism is not a new thing but it’s something you never really think about unless you find yourself somewhere like Cape Town’s Sandy Bay.

There certainly are a few more naturist options around the country and we think it’s a good idea for you and your sweetie to throw caution - and your clothes - to the wind by trying out at least one. Don't forget to check out our gallery.

Old but definitely not wrinkled

Billed as the oldest private naturist resort in South Africa and nestled in the bushveld, you’ll find Kiepersolkloof in the North West province. You and your nude partner can traipse around the resort, enjoying the beautiful gorges and the well-preserved bush surroundings of olive and thorn trees. The area is beautiful and very picturesque, and you’re likely to wake up to the cry of the francolins, squirrels and hornbills.

Walking trails are also lots of fun, on your day out in the bush you might bump into bushbucks, warthogs or kudus. The resort also provides self-catering cottages for your snoozing pleasure and you can always take the nature theme up a notch by camping at one of the many available campsites.

Peace rules

Harmony Nature farm is another popular naturist spot. You can find it deep on the cliffs of the Magaliesberg Mountains, about an hour from Johannesburg and Pretoria. It’s a privately owned 132 hectare resort where the only rules are: “respect yourself and others” and “always sit on a towel”. While you’re sitting on your towel, look out for wildlife such as duikers, zebras, monkeys, jackals and a variety of bird species.

You shall sing in the nude 

The most accessible naturist resort in South Africa has to be the Sun Eden Country Club. Find it just 50 kilometres out of Pretoria, near a bushveld game farm. There’s no chance of getting bored here, Sun Eden offers nude recreation -a range of activities that include karaoke and disco, all enjoyed in the buff.

Beach it up

If you’re not into ‘nude and wild’, try ‘nude and beach’ instead. You can never go wrong with Cape Town’s Sandy Bay. Long recognised as the official nudist beach of South Africa, nobody’s going to bother you here. In case you get too tired of the sand there are some large granite rocks nearby to worship the sun from. Note that the waters of the Atlantic are very chilly and skinny dipping is strictly an act of bravery.

Port Alfred beach in the Eastern Cape is another sea side spot where you can enjoy the sun without anyone rushing to cover up your naughty bits.

Seriously buff
If you find yourself in Port Elizabeth with the itch to take your kit off, try Buff Lodge. It’s apparently, “the best South Africa has to offer the discerning naturist.” There’s more than just lying in the sun; you can enjoy beaches, restaurants and shopping around the Sunshine Coast (fully clothed of course) and spend the rest of your days in the buff.

To fully enjoy yourself at any naturist space, remember the following:

• Blatant sexual activity is not allowed 
• Ask permission before taking pictures 
• Protect yourself against the harsh sun
• In most places singles are not accepted, you have to partner up

Feel like getting back to nature in your birthday suit? Click here for some Romantic escapes.