Hole in the wall – Coffee Bay

One of the most beautiful spots on the Wild Coast is the small community of Coffee Bay. There is not much more here other than some huts, a trading store, a plain camping site and two resort a hotel, although the tiny village is slightly growing nowadays. The subtropical coast is stunning and the long sandy beach is untouched between the green rolling hills and the turquoise sea. Coffee Bay surely is one of South Africa's paradises.

Coffee Bay got its name from a cargo ship that supposedly ran ashore here in the 19th century and spilled some of its coffee bean shipment on the shore. Local stories have it that some of these beans took root and grew into coffee trees, but unfortunately they are nowhere to be seen today. 

Coffee Bay is renowned for its fishing, its offers all facets of salt water fishing. There are a number of small local commercial fishermen who operate coffee bay on a daily basis. These fishermen offer useful information to all visiting Deep Sea, Light boat and Rock and Surf fishermen. Some of the best fishing can be planned for May - July, as this is the time of the annual 'Sardine Run'. This natural phenomenon sees the world’s largest shoals of Sardine move along the coast, closely followed by every predatory fish, mammal and bird found in or above the ocean.

Literally a hole in a monumental wall of free-standing rock in Coffee Bay, on South Africa’s unspoiled, rural stretch of Wild Coast.

Hole in the Wall is a pretty much self-contained holiday village, perfect for families with children.

There is no shortage of swimming pools, trampolines and beach activities, ideal and safe to let the kids play while the folks chill out on the beach or on the deck overlooking the beach, or at the bar, again with a sea view.

This part of the South African coastline, stretching between the Mtamvuna River in the north and the Great Kei River to the south, is characterized by its untamed beauty and yet for the holidaymaker it has all the facilities, activities and accommodation you would find anywhere else; just a little more rustic and a little less gauche, but no less comfortable.

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THE SENTINEL ROCK - FREE STATE - SOUTH AFRICA

The Sentinel Rock rises over the Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the eastern Free State.

The Sentinel is the most northerly point of the Drakensberg and besides providing a spectacular view from the lip of one of the highest waterfalls in Africa, the Tugela waterfalls.

The trail takes you to above 3000m on the plateau of the Drakensberg Amphitheatre via two successive sets of chain ladders.

The scenic access road through Phuthaditjaba to the parking area winds up a part of the Drakensberg that forms the border between Natal and the Free State. From the parking area, the trail zigzags up the slope of the Sentinel to above the first cliffs. The trail skirts the Sentinel and then follows the contour of the western buttress, slowly ascending to the chain ladders.

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Giants Castle Nature Reserve, Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal

This KwaZulu-Natal nature reserve in uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park, South Africa, offers breath-taking views of deep valleys, grassy plateaus and craggy mountains.

Giant's Castle Nature Reserve is known for its magnificent San rock art, fabulous hiking and invigorating climate. This KwaZulu-Natal nature reserve is an historic place, and home to majestic Eland and noble Bearded Vulture. This beautiful reserve was named in honour of the peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains, whose silhouette resembles that of a sleeping giant.

The uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is a World Heritage Site. Giants Castle Nature Reserve occupies the central section which is approximately 4 hours drive from Johannesburg and 3 hours from Durban. Favourite activities here include hiking, mountain climbing and trout fishing. Guests can see fascinating ancient rock art created by the historic San people that once inhabited this spectacular area.

This KwaZulu-Natal nature reserve not only provides guests with a great opportunity to view wildlife at close quarters, but also a unique cultural and historical experience. A visit to the Main Caves Museum is a must for insight into the world of the amazing San people (Bushmen), their culture and way of life. Another highlight is the 'Vulture hide', where visitors can view Bearded Vultures and other endangered species feeding in winter.

The Rock Lodge Conference Centre is one of the most unique in the country. Built into a hillside overlooking the Bushman’s River with Giants Castle as a backdrop, the centre incorporates the surrounding freestanding natural rock into its conference lounge wall. This fully equipped venue has a boardroom and can seat up to 70 delegates, or around 80 guests for wonderful weddings and other intimate gatherings. The surrounding wildflower garden provides a tranquil setting.

Giants Castle facilities include:

• The Main Caves Bushmen Museum
• Shop with a wide range of supplies and curios
• Izimbali Restaurant and pub
• Conference and function venue

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South Africa Honeymoons

South Africa is the new honeymoon destination that everyone is talking about. South Africa is a vast country, the size of France and Spain combined and offers a diverse range of wedding and honeymoon locations. To experience the best of South Africa, we highly recommend travelling to Cape Town, the Cape Winelands, the Garden Route, the Drakensberg and the Zululand game parks. These areas embody the diversity of culture and history of South Africa.

South Africa rates as such a great honeymoon destination providing a combination of beautiful coast line, world renowned wine tasting, and the game rich Game Reserves. South Africa also provides excellent value for money.

5 Mountains Lodge

5 Mountains Lodge is a 4-star exclusive and luxurious retreat set amongst beautiful gardens and vineyards and framed by majestic mountain scenery. Located near the peaceful town of Wellington, their accommodation sleeps up to 16 guests in either the luxurious Suite (which also doubles up as the Honeymoon Suite), or one of the stand-alone garden cottages, which are ideal for families. Guests can combine sumptuous country living with sightseeing, wine tours, mountain biking, horse riding and walking, or simply relaxing by the pool and enjoying the hospitality.

All Cottages are ensuite. All accommodation is fully equipped with a mini bar, tea / coffee making facilities, air-conditioning and heating.

With an idyllic and picturesque setting, 5 Mountains Lodge is also the perfect venue for weddings and functions and provides a peaceful environment for conferences and business meetings. Situated in the heart of the wine region and only 45 minutes from Cape Town, 15 minutes from Paarl and 25 minutes from Franschhoek, 5 Mountains Lodge provides the ideal base to discover the Cape. For the more energetic golf, trout fishing, mountain walks, Cape Town & Surrounds, Fly Fishing, Robben Island, Deep Sea Fishing, Hot Air Ballooning, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Whale Watching and more are all within easy reach. 

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River Bend Lodge - Addo Elephant National Park

Luxury living in the bush.  Leave the city life behind and escape to the tranquil, natural beauty found at River Bend Lodge. Set on a 14 000-hectare private concession within the malaria-free Addo Elephant National Park, River Bend is family friendly and a mere 45-minute drive from Port Elizabeth.      

The eight private and individually decorated suites have verandas which open onto the bushveld and afford guests the impression that they are the only ones in this unique wilderness. The Honeymoon suite includes a private plunge pool and sun deck. Nearby Long Hope Villa is an exclusive use three-bedroomed Safari Villa and guests are treated to a memorable stay by their own private chef and game guide.

Home to the Big-5, River Bend is renowned for its unique viewing opportunities of elephants and boasts a checklist of over 430 birds.  Individual and personalised game drives are led by enthusiastic and experienced guides, who will ensure you have a truly memorable experience.

River Bend prides itself on its culinary excellence and an award-winning wine list accompanies delicious meals prepared in a contemporary style.

The Honeymoon suite at River Bend Lodge is something very special - a private plunge pool, outdoor shower and sheltered sundeck.  Romantic meals can be served in the privacy of your suite or on the deck around your pool.  Experience a game drive with just you and your partner guided by an experienced ranger or a picnic can be arranged for you in the privacy of the bush.

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Camps Bay Resort

Set against the backdrop of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range and a stone’s throw from the most beautiful beaches in Cape Town, Camps Bay Resort is perfectly located for your dream holiday in this idyllic location. Within walking distance from an abundance of day and night activities, café's, sun downer spots, cocktail venues, fantastic restaurants and places to be seen, staying at Camps Bay Resort is both fun and convenient.

A favourite pastime at Camps Bay Resort is to soak up the sun at the two swimming pools located on the property. The Palm Café serves breakfasts, light lunches and drinks, all of which can be ordered from the pool menu and enjoyed from the comfort of your beach towel! Boasting a selection of 40 rooms, studios and apartments which are serviced and immaculately prepared, you'll find the perfect accommodation for your needs.

Camps Bay Resort is located opposite the Atlantic Ocean and Camps Bay’s tidal pool, and down the road from The Promenade shopping centre, food stores and a beach front lined with street cafés and restaurants. It borders Theatre on the Bay and is also within walking distance of the Camps Bay sport clubs.

During the summer, Palm Café offers guests leisurely breakfasts, light lunches and delicious hot freshly brewed coffee all day. Guests staying at the resort are spoilt with the fresh sea air rolling in as they start their day with a scrumptious omelette or health breakfast and enjoy a freshly made Roti wrap or salad for lunch. Open from 7:00 – 16:00. Palm Café is a Wireless Hotspot.

During winter season guests are offered breakfast, from 7:30 - 13:00, at Café Sofia, located in The Promenade centre.

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Old Joe's Kaia, Schoemanskloof, Mpumalanga

Paul, Marian and their son Damian are your hosts at this unique small family owned and run establishment, situated in the magnificent Schoemanskloof Valley. This venue is known for its excellent cuisine, relaxed homely atmosphere and personal service. Swimming pool, prolific birding and exhilarating walks. Experience harmony and tranquility!

Accommodation is offered in Rondavels and Kaia Rooms - each with its own character, theme and uniquely decorated style. Each unit also has its own balcony /veranda and bathroom en suite (bath and shower).

Old Joe’s Kaia has always been well-known for its excellent cuisine and fabulous wines. Our meals are creative yet wholesome with country flair. Trout from the area is a regular feature, as well as venison and ostrich.

Meals can be enjoyed inside the cosy lounge-dining area or outside on the balcony at tree-top level and overlooking the beautiful mountain and garden. Many interesting and rare birds such as the Narina Trogon, Purple-crested Loerie, Paradise Flycatcher and many more can be observed from here.

Activities:

Swimming:  Spend time at our beautiful garden’s swimming pool, reading and relaxing to your heart’s content.

Walking and hiking:  The Schoemanskloof Valley is an absolute paradise for nature lovers. Collect your pre-ordered backpack or picnic basket from reception early in the morning and set off to a cosy spot you have found somewhere in the Valley, or join an organised guided walk with an expert on the fauna and flora of the area.

Quad biking: Explore some interesting geography on wheels (by prior arrangement)

Horse riding:  Enjoy the uniqueness of the Kaapsehoop area on horseback. Walk to the edge of the escarpment and see the largest crater in the southern hemisphere.

National Botanical gardens:  A haven for birds and over 650 species of indigenous trees. It boasts the world’s largest man-made rainforest where the 159 ha garden straddles the Crocodile and Nels Rivers. Enjoy your packed picnic from our kitchen on the vast lawns or cosy bench on the river front.

Sudwala caves:  Visit the oldest known caves in the world. Besides the awesome rock displays the caverns also boast an array of calcium formations, aged but active, anciently and patiently still growing - a must for every visitor to our area.

Panorama route:  A day outing (Sabie is ¾ of an hour away) up to the God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck and the Potholes, Pilgrims Rest.

Old Joe's Kaia is situated between Machadodorp and Nelspruit on the N4 in the beautiful Schoemanskloof Valley, Mpumalanga, South Africa.

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