There are few places as gorgeous as KwaZulu Natal during Winter – and true to the ‘warmest place on earth’ messaging expressed by the province’s PR campaign, there’s little doubting it. With the mid-year holidays fast approaching, you’d do yourself a solid to spoil yourself and your loved ones with the energiser experience they may be craving deeply. It’s been quite a year!
Fordoun Hotel & Spa (Nottingham Road)
Nestled discreetly between rolling hills and founded during the 1850s, the five-star Fordoun property has been owned and managed by the Bates family (since the late 1940s) who have carefully taken pride in their legacy and luxurious amenities. The equestrian touches are a beautiful touch that adds an air of understated elegance.
The property is so named for the Fordoun region of Scotland which the scenery resembled upon settler William Taylor’s arrival and embrace of the scenic Nottingham Road landscape. If the thought of enjoying farm-style breakfasts as the wood fire crackles in the background and the rolling hills stare back at you piques your senses, this is certainly a spot worth driving down for. Bask in the fresh country energy from one of the deluxe dam-facing suites which include five-star features worth staying longer for. Skye Bistro boasts an expansive wine collection from north of 60 local estates.
You can choose from the 22 luxurious, uniquely styled rooms in the hotel or opt for any of the 11 fully-equipped self-catering cottages situated outdoors. To add to the charm of the destination, they also have a spa, chapel and wedding/conference venue. You can plan your winter break at Fordoun Hotel by emailing [email protected]
Hartford House (Mooiriver)
Guests are spoilt for choice as they take an opportunity to select their preferred style of suite and take in the breathtaking natural landscape together with the fine architectural masterpieces that make up the authentic country and South African property. There are three amazing restaurants to switch between: The Chef, Manor House Restaurant, and The Tuinhuis.
Under the leadership of seasoned chef Keegan Lock, the team at The Chef serves up French-style cuisine with a dash of Oriental.
Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse (Drakensberg Mountains)
For a full serving of old-world charm, book your mid-year break getaway at the crisp CMF where your senses will be awakened, allowing you to dream bigger and stronger for the balance of the year.
This is an opportunity to absorb the rich and comforting winter hues and mountains ahead by the lake. The fine dining and 3 to 6-course dining options beginning breakfast to dinner add elevated meaning to the term ‘comfort food’. In following closely to its name, Cleopatra will remind you to celebrate the glory of being.
To take a break from the sumptuous meals, there are guided excursions around the vicinity and moments where guests can marvel at the local bushmen’s paintings on historical excavations nearby. A trip down the path of history while remaining fully in the present, all while giving your palette the time of its life is guaranteed.
