Our country is so beautiful, and we honestly believe that as long as we live, we would never run out of places to go and wonderous things to see.
We spent time in KZN recently and share about two amazing new retreats that we discovered. Surrounded by mountains, and peace and quiet – these are both literally an oasis of calm and relaxation.
Wild Horses – Drakensburg
If you’re looking for a true hideaway and escape from life, then look no further than this charming spot in the notorious Drakensburg which overlooks the breath-taking Sterkfontein Dam and Platberg Mountains on the Sterkfontein Nature Reserve.
The comfortable yet stylish lodge is all about the finer details, and with freshly baked biscuits accompanying your tea and a nightcap waiting for you on your bedside table, you’ll quickly get used to the spoils that accompany this restful and restoring getaway.
With only four beautiful suites to choose from, your stay will be an intimate one, where you will be able to enjoy the spoils of top-class service and opulent surroundings. The celebrated chef brings guests exemplary dining experiences, offering unpretentious local cuisine that is sure to leave you wanting more from each meal. For a truly special experience, why not reserve the wine cellar for a private, intimate dinner, where you can truly connect and unwind.
While rest and restoration is the name of the game at Wild Horses, you can occupy your time with a range of activities; from hikes and horse rides in the glorious Drakensberg to fishing or cruising on the magnificent dam, there are plenty of ways to take in the splendid surroundings.
Top it off with a visit to the spa, or perhaps rather book a private massage in the comfort of your room; you’re sure to enjoy the ultimate in a luxury holiday during your stay.
For more information and price details visit www.wildhorses.co.za or call 058-622-7000.
The Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa – Oribi Gorge
Along the completely unspoiled South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal you’ll find the majestic Oribi Gorge, one of the most spectacular wonders of nature in South Africa. Experience all the true splendour the Gorge has to offer at The Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa, where sheer luxury is the name of the game and magnificent landscapes and endless views will have you in a constant state of awe.
The cliff-edge villas and stunning suites boast floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering guests uninterrupted views of the surroundings, and if the setting isn’t enough to sell you, the guaranteed world-class service, exquisite fine dining and range of riveting activities should do the trick.
Treat yourself at the Clivia Day Spa, where the range of unique treatments together with the endless views of the surroundings will leave you feeling refreshed and brand new in no time. For those who are feeling more active, the landscapes of indigenous forests and grasslands provide the perfect setting for hikes and mountain biking, or if it’s a real thrill you’re seeking, the Oribi Gorge zip line – the longest, fastest and highest zip line in Africa – is nearby.
The neighbouring farm also offers game viewing, where you could see anything from a range of antelope to the illusive leopard.
All of this is bound to work up quite the appetite, and The Gorge’s modern contemporary cuisine with a country twist is sure to hit the spot. It’s not often that fine dining is accompanied by such spectacular views, and with the ever-changing scenery – plus the option to dine in the boma under the starts or in the privacy of your room – means that each dining experience will be a unique and incredibly romantic one.
For pure romance, reconnecting, relaxation and a true spoil, this natural sensory overload will leave you wanting more.
For more information and price details visit www.thegorge.co.za, or call 039-687-4000.
Words: Tamlyn Cumings. Images: Supplied.
