Explore South Africa – Outdoor South Africa

Jun 24

by Outdoor SA in Accomodation, Beautiful Walks, Explore South Africa, Hidden Gems 0 comments tags: KwaZulu Natal, KZN Midlands, Midlands Meander, Self catering

Brambleberry Lodge

Situated in the Kwa Zulu Natal Midlands this group of three lodges situated alongside a beautiful and picturesque lake affords a large or small group of family or friends a unique opportunity to enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the Kwa Zulu Natal midlands. The group three different size lodges situated in the Nottingham Road area is a mere hour and a half from Durban. The area is totally secluded and secure with gate access control to the property. While in easy reach of the N3, once in the property it is a haven of peace and tranquility. There are three varying options in terms of the accommodation to choose from, the main Lodge offers self-catering accommodation, sleeping a maximum of 16 or 8 individual rooms. All appliances are provided with large spacious living arrangements and a wonderful wrapped verandah allowing you to sit and be enveloped in the peaceful vista of the expansive lake. The homestead offers four bedrooms sleeping up to a maximum of 8. All accommodation has unparalleled views of the lake. Beautiful walks around the lake and in the nearby vicinity are perfect for all ages. The Lakeside Cabin is a two bedroom sleeping four maximum. Whilst […]

Apr 03

by Outdoor SA in Accomodation, Explore South Africa, Fine Dining, Hidden Gems, Hiking, Photographic Opportunity, Things to do 0 comments tags: KwaZulu Natal, Oribi Gorge, The Gorge

The Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa

An absolute seven star gem perched on the edge of the Orbi Gorge, The Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa is an absolute must visit. An easy drive from Durban for 90 minutes or 2 hours if you are flying in and landing at King Shaka Airport. A warm and friendly welcome awaits you from the moment you announce yourself at the gate to the extremely warm and world class service that is provided throughout your stay. As if by magic every single staff member knew our names before we even introduced ourselves. The villa’s and suites provide unparalleled views of gorge, whose enchanting vistas are constantly changing. The suites are large and luxurious with king size beds and bath tub allowing you to relax and enjoy the serenity of the incredible views of the gorge. There is both an internal and external shower for the more adventurous. The villas are away from the main hotel complex, while suites are connected to the hotel. All your needs and requirements are met in the rooms which are difficult to tear yourself away from. Breakfast and dinners are served in the main dining room which is beautifully appointed providing incredible views during […]

Mar 21

by Outdoor SA in Accomodation, Cape Town, Explore South Africa, Fine Dining, Franschhoek, Hidden Gems, Winelands 0 comments

Angala Boutique Hotel & Guest House

Situated in the Cape Winelands near Rus en Vrede Wine estate, this hidden gem is a five star experience you should not miss. From the moment of arrival the overall sense of serenity and calmness envelopes you. Situated at the foot of the Simonsberg, this five star rated hotel offers the discerning visitor everything and more your heart could desire. The lush green environs that help the buildings blend into the landscape add to the natural beauty of the grounds. Various accommodation packages are available from a River Cottage, to standard and deluxe rooms or magnificent suites depending upon your needs and requirements. To remove the stress and strain of the city away the hotel offers an entire range from the solar heated pool, infrared sauna and steam room, eco pool and spa. The staff and service are world class; treat yourself to the world class cuisine either at breakfast, lunch or dinner. Situated close to Franschhoek and Stellenbosch you can escape into the nearby winelands to discover the amazing wine farms and various eateries in the area. Whether it’s a couples retreat, wedding or family holiday in the Cape, we would recommend you take advantage of this hidden gem. […]

Feb 11

by Outdoor SA in Accomodation, Beautiful Walks, Camping, Explore South Africa, Food, Hidden Gems, Hiking, Photographic Opportunity, Things to do 0 comments tags: Clarens, free state

Clarens

We will be covering this unique area of South Africa over the next few weeks highlighting interesting and novel details on the area and reviewing some of the places to visit in the area. Are you looking for a difference experience away from the hustle and bustle of city life? A road trip to Clarens in the Free State is well worth the time. Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes from Johannesburg and 4 hours 30 minutes’ drive from Durban, it is time well spent. Nestled at the foot of the Maluti Mountains there are a wide range of accommodation types to choose from and a myriad of activities to enjoy both in the town and in its surrounds. There are many outside activities from fly fishing, to mountain walks and serious mountaineering to horseback riding, quad biking, to even hot air ballooning or golf. Established in 1912, the town of Clarens was a result of two farms being sold, after negotiations a decision was made to name the village after President Paul Kruger influence on the area after he as a voluntarily exile lived his last days in the town of Clarens in Switzerland. Following the Free State-Basotho War of […]

Jan 25

by Outdoor SA in Coffee & Cake, Explore South Africa, Food, Hearty Meals 0 comments tags: KZN Midlands, Pietermaritzburg

The Farmers Daughter

Situated in Howick at 4 Shafton Road, Howick is an absolute delight. Set in a two storey atypical Pietermaritzburg red brick building. Downstairs there is a lovely verandah that opens out onto the surrounding garden area. Upstairs the internal area opens out to a picturesque balcony overlooking the Howick valley. The entire atmosphere is one of a funky eclectic look and feel. From the décor to the chairs and tables, plates , and cutlery the restaurant offers a very unique and interesting environment. The artisanal menu has a wide and exciting range of offerings certainly more than sufficient to meet a wide range of tastes. The food is fresh, beautifully presented and certainly offers value for money. The service is friendly and warm from the moment of arrival and you never need to wait for all your needs and requirements. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner or a decadent snack, The Farmers Daughter is well worth a visit. We will definitely pop in again ! Tel number 033 330 2958 Times 9.00 am – 17h00, 18h00 – 21.00

Jan 15

by Outdoor SA in Accomodation, Beautiful Walks, Explore South Africa, Fine Dining 0 comments tags: Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga Lowveld valley.

Highgrove House Country Hotel, Restaurant, Spa and Farm

If you are travelling en route to the Kruger Park in the Mpumalanga area and are looking for luxury accommodation in the vicinity then a night or two at Highgrove House Country Hotel is highly recommended. Set back off the road situated on a small holding the location is perfect either to stop off on the way to the park or on the return journey. Accommodation consists of 8 garden cottages allowing for a maximum of 16 guests on the property at any one moment in time. The entire property has the bygone colonial era ambience while encapsulating the very atypical South African authenticity. The grounds are extensive and the sub-tropical climate encourages bountiful growth of the plants and trees that cover the property. The towering trees that warmly welcome the visitor down the main road to the property are truly amazing and awe inspiring. The hotel is renowned for its cuisine having achieved many accolades in this regard. Its fine dining reputation has resulted in it being part of The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, international gastronomic society founded in Paris in 1950. Dining is either in main dining area The Royal, or on the patio overlooking the pool area. All […]

Jan 06

by Outdoor SA in Accomodation, Cape Town, Explore South Africa, Fine Dining, Food, Franschhoek, Photographic Opportunity, Things to do, Winelands 0 comments

Franschhoek Country House and Villas

Franschhoek Country House and Villa’s situated in the central village of Franschhoek offers the ideal place to stay if you are looking for accommodation in the Franschhoek valley. The tranquil ambience of the location while still very central allows the visitor to unwind and relax with five-star service in luxury surroundings. Accommodation on offer ranges from luxury Villa’s, Garden Cottages, Luxury Rooms and Standard Rooms. No detail has been spared with regards to the furnishing, décor and creature comforts provided in range of offerings providing the discerning traveler everything your heart desires. The overall theme and décor of the French Chic, with beautiful artwork and finishes throughout. The warmth and hospitality of all the staff is heartfelt and they go out of their way to make your stay pleasant and enjoyable. Breakfast is served every morning in the upstairs area overlooking the reception quadrant. For lunches and dinners, you can book at the Monneaux restaurant which is on the property. This multi award winning restaurant offers an enchanting setting both within the restaurant or on a pleasant day / evening you can sit outside in the garden area. The restaurant is located on the historical site which was first Franschhoek […]

Nov 24

by Outdoor SA in Accomodation, Beautiful Walks, Explore South Africa, Photographic Opportunity, Things to do 0 comments tags: accomodation, Clarens, free state, Self catering

Ridge Road Country House & Cottage.

Travelling to Clarens in the Free State and lost as where to stay? Large group looking for superb accommodation and self-catering, then look no further than Ridge Road Country House & Cottage. A short drive of 9 km’s from the town of Clarens, on the R711, the accommodation boasts everything that the weary traveller could desire. The main house – Country House sleeps 12 with certain of the rooms having en suite bathrooms while others can share nearby bathrooms. The entire look and feel of the main house is French Provençal, hewn out of sandstone rock and perched on a ridge overlooking a nearby stream; its location is perfect to get away from the hustle and bustle of the town. The house offers all the necessary home comforts and utensils needed, you only need to bring your food and drink. 100% cotton percale linen in the bedrooms, heaters in winter and a splash pool outside for the long lazy summer days really provide a splash of luxury and comfort. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a large table to accommodate a large crowd of hungry folk. The setting is ideal for a large group wanting to relax and unwind […]

Nov 01

by Outdoor SA in Accomodation, Explore South Africa, Fine Dining, Hidden Gems 0 comments

A Hidden Gem

On a recent trip to the Kruger Park we needed to find a place in the greater Nelspruit area to overnight en route and also to stay on our return journey. As we were driving to our destination we wanted a quite secluded place away from the hustle and bustle of the town. We did a fair an amount of research online and managed by chance to stumble upon Belgrace Boutique Hotel. Having arrived after a long road trip we wound our way up the R538 which takes you up to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. We turned off and were warmly welcomed by the guard at the gate. Winding our way down to the parking and reception we immediately knew that we had made the right decision in choosing to stay here. Welcome drinks and the quite trickle of the water fountain at the hotel entrance gave way to calm and exquisite surroundings of the hotel. The expansive dining room opened out onto a spacious verandah and gardens. There are eight magnificently decorated suites each with its own design and character and no expense have been spared with the décor and extras in the suites. Some of the suites have […]

Mar 09

by Outdoor SA in Adventurous Road Trips, Great Driving Roads, Off Road Destinations, Off the Beaten Track, Uncategorized, Vehicles 0 comments tags: beautiful setting, expolre, outdoors, road trip

En Route Windhoek to Sossusvlei

We enjoyed a leisurely breakfast at the Olive Exclusive comprising a full continental and hot offering before checking out and saying adieu for the moment. We piled our luggage, camera equipment into the Toyota Hilux rental, and then ensuring that we had purchased sufficient water from the hotel we set off on our journey. Leaving central Windhoek we set off in a South West direction with lots of anticipation and excitement. The lush green vegetation surrounding the greater Windhoek area started to thin as the spectacular scenery flashed by. The obligatory stop at the permanent road block at the outskirts of the town did not deter our enthusiasm as the local policemen welcomed us to their beautiful country and bade us well on our way. The landscapes continued to change and become more arid, with the vegetation becoming scarcer. The external heat continued to rise and we were much relived for the aircon and water that we had brought with on the trip. The vastness of the landscapes stretched out all around us and we took in the natural beauty of our surroundings. The local towns became fewer and fewer and soon we left the comfort of the tar roads […]