6 of the best places to stay in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal
Whether you want wildlife, history or a recharge, Lyn Hughes highlights six of the very best places to stay in KwaZulu-Natal
1. The Oyster Box, Umhlanga Rocks
This iconic 5-star coastal hotel, just 15 minutes from Durban’s airport, oozes timeless charm. Think Art Deco, afternoon teas, a private library, and a famous curry buffet. Part of the family-owned Red Carnation Hotel collection, the founders actually had their first date at a restaurant on this spot on 1952. Set in Umhlanga, with sandy beaches just steps away, and views of a historic red-and-white lighthouse, this makes for a great base for visiting Durban while being a destination in its own right. Facilities include two heated pools, a 24-seater cinema, spa, and a number of restaurants and bars. Exit through a lush, tropical garden to the Promenade which runs alongside the beach and is perfect for a leg stretch or jog. Fellow guests will include many South Africans who come for special occasions and you will see why.
More information: oysterboxhotel.com
2. Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge, Manyoni Private Game Reserve
With just nine rooms set along a ridge, this luxurious family-run lodge has one of the best views in South Africa, perhaps best enjoyed from your personal outdoor shower or private plunge pool. Situated in the 54,000-acre Manyoni Private Game Reserve, which has a wide range of habitats crammed within it, from savannah to forest to water to rocky outcrops, you have ample chances to spot all the Big 5. Both black and white rhinos are found here, and lions are often seen and heard close to the lodge. The lodge is heavily involved in conservation too, working on everything from the reintroduction of endangered species, to dehorning of rhinos, and a pangolin monitoring experience which guests can book. In a nutshell, Leopard Mountain ticks every box on service, wildlife and scenery.
More information: leopardmountain.co.za
3. Three Tree Hill, Spioenkop
Arriving at this tranquil hilltop lodge, with far-reaching views across farmland, nature reserve, and across to the Drakensberg, it is hard to believe that nearby Spioenkop Hill was the site of the bloodiest battle in the Anglo-Boer war. But the history is palpable here as co-owner Cheryl Blackburn had ancestors fight at Spioenkop on the Boer side while husband Simon’s mother was Molly Blackburn, an anti-apartheid activist. A tour of the Spioenkop with the excellent storyteller historian is a must but there is plenty more to do at this welcoming lodge, including nature walks, horse riding, mountain biking or visiting the local village. The Drakensberg is just a couple of hours away, or there is something about Three Tree Hill which encourages you simply relax whether curled up with a book in the library dedicated to Molly Blackburn, in front of a roaring fire on a chilly night, or on a terrace gazing at the views.
More information: threetreehill.co.za
4. Fugitives’ Drift Lodge, Rorke’s Drift
Built by the late historian David Rattray and still run by his family, Fugitives’ Drift is known for its battlefield tours to all the 1879 Anglo-Zulu War battle sites, including the famous Rorke’s Drift which draws visitors from around the globe. Thanks to the lodge’s acclaimed guides (some who had Zulu ancestors who fought) you don’t have to be knowledgeable to be spellbound by the history and enjoy the tours. Set in its own nature reserve, you’ll see plenty of wildlife too, and activities include nature walks and biking, or spend time in the well-stocked library.
More information: fugitivesdrift.com
5. Makakatana Bay Lodge, St Lucia
The only privately-owned lodge within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and sitting on the shores of Lake Lucia, this is the place to explore pristine wetlands. Take a boat trip on a little-visited part of the Lake to see hippos galore (the largest concentration on Africa), crocodiles and wetland birds. Game drives across the surrounding savannah are an opportunity to spot giraffe, elephant, waterbuck and possibly leopard. Night drives, nature walks, beach trips and seasonal whale-watching trips are also on offer.
More information: makakatana.com
6. Sala Beach House, Ballito
And breathe. This achingly gorgeous boutique hotel makes the perfect end to any exploration of KwaZulu-Natal. Situated on Thompson’s Bay on the Dolphin Coast (within very easy reach of Durban’s airport), floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of the Indian Ocean – you’ll fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves and you may even spot whales in season. The helpful team can suggest and arrange activities from surfing, snorkelling and boat trips to the area’s best shopping. But, with its spacious well-designed rooms, soothing décor, sounds of the ocean, and discreet but excellent service, there is something about Sala Beach House that makes you just want to sit and be. Trust me, you won’t want to leave.
More information: salabeach.co.za
The trip
The author travelled with Audley Travel (audleytravel.com/south-africa).
