Royal Natal National Park, KwaZulu Natal

The Royal Natal National Park was proclaimed in 1916, and contains some of the most spectacular scenery in South Africa. The main feature of Royal Natal is the Amphitheatre, a rock wall about 5km in length, and approximately 1000m in height between the Sentinel (3 165m) and Eastern Buttress (3 047m), with a number of domes rising from its relatively flat summit plateau. In 1836, the French missionaries Arbousset and Daumas named the largest of these domes Mont-aux-Sources - a literal description of this source of five rivers.

Of these, the Tugela plummets 948m in five clear leaps, making it the world's second highest waterfall. The Tugela Falls' upper reaches occasionally freeze in winter to create dazzling columns of ice. And just to confound weather experts the Royal Natal National Park creates a White Christmas in the middle of our sub-tropical summer.

The Royal Natal National Park is ideal for hiking, with a superb network of graded walks catering for all levels of fitness and agility. And while the summit of Mont-aux-Sources can be reached by walking from the summit plateau and scaling a 100-rung chain ladder, if this seems like child's play you're always invited to join the annual Mont-aux- Sources Challenge, when men and women of iron turn the mountain into a cross-country steeple-chase of epic proportions.

Hot Air Ballooning in the Drakensberg

Experience the awesome thrill and peaceful serenity of hot air ballooning. Hot air balloon flights are offered principally on the edge of the Drakensberg mountains, just inland from Durban in Kwazulu Natal, South Africa. The hot air balloon take-off is from a site in or around the Kamberg Valley and within sight of Giants Castle.

You will meet at the hot air balloon launch site approximately 30 minutes before sunrise, your pilot will then give you a safety briefing. Once the hot air balloon is heated and you are in the balloons basket you will enjoy a flight of around an hour. After helping to pack the hot air balloon you will return to a location close to take off point for an Alfresco breakfast and Champagne.

The hot air balloon has a partitioned basket specially designed to ensure safety, comfort and a superb view. The hot air balloon baskets are about 42 inches (1.1 metres high), and have footholds to assist entry. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult on the flight and should be tall enough to see over the basket sides.

Beautiful Women

Woman to Woman

Mountain Shadows Guest House

Mountain Shadows Guesthouse is situated on a working wine and olive farm at the foot of the picturesque Drakenstein mountains in the heart of the Cape Winelands, a few minutes away from Paarl. The historic Cape Dutch manor house dates back to 1823 and has been declared a national monument.

Within easy reach of Cape Town and Cape Town International Airport, the guesthouse is an ideal base from which to explore the beautiful Cape and its many scenic and tourist attractions. Visit the surrounding wine-estates, play a round of golf on their own 6-hole golf course or on one of the many world-class golf courses nearby. Take a stroll amongst the vineyards or along the river that borders the estate, view the abundant bird-life, try your hand at fly-fishing in their bass dam or lounge by the poolside and soak up the peace of the estate. Great food prepared daily using only the freshest local ingredients, combined with fine wines from neighbouring cellars will ensure that your stay at Mountain Shadows will be an unforgettable experience.

Mountain Shadows is more than a guesthouse - it is a celebration of life, family, friends, food and wine. Come and visit them in the shadow of the mountain…and rejuvenate your soul.

The following languages are spoken at Mountain Shadows: English, Afrikaans, German, French, Finnish and Swedish.

Facilities and Services

A stay at Mountain Shadows Guesthouse is a rewarding experience in luxury, style and comfort.

The spacious, en-suite rooms feature exquisite interiors each with its own individual decor and antique furnishings. Equipped with satellite television, telephone, hair-dryer, safe and fridge, if required, the rooms offer the discerning traveller every comfort to ensure a truly relaxing stay.

There is a myriad of things to do and places to see nearby, whatever your tastes, inclinations or budget. To name, but a few:

·         Hiking trails, horse riding and mountain biking

·         The sights and attractions of Cape Town

·         Pristine beaches and marine reserves

·         Whale-watching

·         Snake-park and crocodile farm

·         World-class golf courses

·         Health spas

·         African markets

·         Game reserves within 3 hours drive where you can see the "big five"

For the more adventurous there are bungee-jumping, abseiling, big-wave surfing or shark cage-diving!

Restaurant

The talented and enthusiastic kitchen staff prepare mouth-watering dishes using only the finest local ingredients and fresh produce. Scrumptious breakfasts are prepared daily. Lunch and dinner can be ordered from a set menu that varies according to the season. Select wines to match the cuisine and suit your taste from a superb wine cellar. Picnic baskets packed with all kinds of delicacies are also available.

Beautiful Women

Woman-to-Woman

Dullstroom, Mpumalanga

Dullstroom dates back to the early 1880s when Dutch Settlers made their way to the place of "eternal mist". The town is situated at 2100 m above sea level, making this one of the highest towns in the country. The architecture of the village of Dullstroom is a mixture of 19th and 20th century building designs.

Dullstroom is on the panorama route, halfway from Johannesburg to the Kruger National Park. The ideal stop over! You will find the village of Dullstroom to be a charming little hamlet situated in the heart of the Highlands Meander, a beautiful part of Mpumalanga, noted for its clear streams, lakes and breath-taking scenery.

The Birds of Prey Centre and Rehabilitation Center is situated at the Owl & Oak Trading Post, just outside of Dullstroom. Daily flying displays at 10:30 and again at 14:30.

Anyone passing through the tranquil Steenkampsberg, might think that the ‘dull’ in Dullstroom describes the character of the town. Not so. This charming village was named after its Dutch founder, Wolterus Dull, and has become a haven for the nature lover, family man and fly fisherman.

The town claims to be the highest above sea level, in what was formerly called the Transvaal, hence the chill air. Dullstroom’s European heritage is evident in its wonderful array of deciduous trees – beeches, lindens, cherry trees and many other varieties planted here over a century ago. Nestled in pristine surroundings, Dullstroom caters for those who want to break away to fresh air and peace.

Many a city slicker has become a Dullstroom ‘weekender’ for exactly these reasons. Dullstroom offers a sub-Alpine climate unique in the area, beautiful natural surroundings devoid of industrial pollution, popular horse and hiking trails, unique plant and animal life, as well as the Verlorenvallei Nature Reserve, breeding place of the rare Wattled Crane. Accommodation varies from a caravan park at the municipal dam to up market hotels, a share block scheme and self-catering cottages rented out by private owners. Even the gourmet dinner has several options to choose from.

Dullstroom also offers some of the best facilities for trout angling in the country. The Dullstroom municipal dam has been restored to its former glory and the building of a sister dam. Suikerboschkop, has resulted in excellent fly fishing for both brown trout and rainbows. Day angling is possible at these and other dams in the surrounding area.

WHERE TO STAY

Valley of the Rainbow

Situated in a secluded valley in the mountains near Dullstroom, only two hours from Johannesburg. The Manor House offers five luxurious en suite rooms each with own private lounge. The Country House with five en suite rooms is decorated in a classical country style and offers breathtaking views of the lakes and mountains. The Tent Chalets each have it’s own bathroom and electricity. Sporting activities include trout fishing, clay pigeon shooting, mountain biking, hiking, birding, abseiling etc. Ideal for corporate Adventure and Leisure programmes.

Nkomazi Game Reserve – Mpumalanga

Surrounded by towering ancient mountains, broad river valleys and impressive grasslands, The Komati Tented Lodge with River Retreat is a malaria free destination, situated on the banks of the Komati River. Luxurious accommodation is offered in 12 "African Campaign" styled tents, each with a carefully selected setting ensuring privacy and creating a sense of oneness with nature. Enjoy air-cooled accommodation, en-suite bathrooms, private plunge pools and viewing deck.

 Known as the ‘place of water’ the Nkomazi Game Reserve represents the true symbol of Africa – the real Africa with its vivid scenic beauty, dramatic landscapes, thunderstorms, rolling savannah, bushveld, wildlife, massive beasts, relaxed atmosphere and its fascinating cultural history.

Nature lovers will share in the many wonders of Nkomazi - its diversity of wildlife and habitat, its natural beauty and major geological finds. Here guests can take part in a range of discoveries leading from one natural wonder to the next.

Watch the sun rise over the North Eastern boundaries of the reserve during a morning game drive or take in the spectacular view from lookout points among the rocky granite sentinels in the highlands of the reserve. Waterfalls and rock pools are impressive, while rolling grasslands support large herds of free-roaming wildlife, making Nkomazi a game-viewing haven.

And, when the sun sinks low in the Mountainlands, settle the day by returning to the luxury and opulence of the Komati Tented Lodge.

Guests can take part in many exciting activities including game drives that can last up to three hours, nature walks, bird watching, star gazing and rock art viewing. Guest can also take part in Biking Safaris.

The Lodge features a gift boutique, an outdoor boma dining area and a Majilis Lounge Tent with a viewing deck.

The River Retreat offers an escape to enjoy some pampering. Awaken your senses and allow us to rejuvenate body, mind and soul. Inspired by surrounding elements that guide us, our selection of body and beauty treatments cater for men and women.

Beautiful Women

Glorious Food

Bushman Sands Hotel, Golf Estate and Spa

Bushman Sands Golf Course is conveniently situated near Shamwari Game Reserve and Addo Elephant National Park just 80 kilometres from Port Elizabeth. Designed by South African golfing legend, Gary Player, the 18-hole championship course lies on the banks of the Bushman's and New Year's Rivers.

Characterised by undulating fairways and pot bunkers, this challenging but friendly Links course has some unique features. The first stroke is played over an active railway line. A double green is shared by the second and fifth holes, crossing the Bushman’s River and New Year’s River on several holes.

The final hole finishes with a drive over a small cemetery in the centre of the fairway. Bushman Sands facilities include a halfway house, pro-shop and gents and ladies locker rooms with showers and steam rooms.

This stunning property has had new life breathed into it with the rescue work done by River Hotels Team. The tar road is complete all the way from Port Elizabeth. So now the 100 kilometer trip is easy and without any stoppages or stone chips. The golf course is certainly in a fine condition.

Bushman Sands is a multi-faceted experience offering something for everyone. The 4-star hotel is a delightful blend of rich heritage and modern luxury. The Gary Player designed Golf Course is perfect for the keen golfer. There are thrilling adventure options and prospects of viewing Big Game.

Those wanting relaxation, pampering and peace will find alternatives at the spa, at the poolside, or even on a tranquil sunset boat cruise. The Hotel comprises of 39 bedrooms around a pool area overlooking the Bushman Sands Golf Course. At the Bunkers Restaurant, cuisine is traditionally South African with influences of Xhosa, English and Cape Malay. Hearty Breakfasts, a la carte lunches and evening dinners are served here, while a cigar and good single malt can be enjoyed on the outside patio.

Our Spa is located in the Leisure Centre, the three treatment rooms - each with its own shower and air-conditioning and a small but fully-equipped gymnasium offer guests the ideal opportunity to truly relax and be pampered. The 18-hole championship course follows the banks of the Bushmans and New Year’s Rivers, resembling the games earliest links courses in Scotland with undulating fairways and pot bunkers. Situated on nearly 4000 hectares of former farmland, Bushman Sands game reserve offers malaria free sightings of animal species. Rewarding for families and satisfying for visitors interested in the turbulent and fascinating history of the area, Bushman Sands has won wide acclaim as a forerunner of sustainable ecological and community tourism.

Glorious Food

Abloom Bush Lodge and Spa Retreat, Cullinan, Gauteng

In the beauty of an undiscovered bush valley you can find the 5 star equivalent Abloom Bush Lodge & Spa Retreat. Just outside of the world famous but small historical town of Cullinan, 30 min east of Pretoria, Carmen and Lowie run their unique and exclusive boutique hotel.

Abloom offers only 4 luxurious suites, build as romantic standalone thatched chalets. All suites are eco-friendly and magnificently designed, build and decorated by Lowie himself and you will be short of eyes to absorb all the creative, stylish and elegant details he has given the lodge. A sense of peace and tranquillity greets you on arrival as the dedicated owners, their 5 dogs and 6 horses welcome you with their gracious hospitality to a luxurious but relaxed and informal farm.

Abloom is centrally located between OR Tambo International Airport of Johannesburg and the Kruger National Park.

Accommodation

All four suites are luxurious, beautifully decorated and tranquil and offer 100% privacy, a hot plunge pool (heated to 36 degrees), outside shower with warm and cold water and outside fire place / bbq on the secluded outside deck.

The elegant standalone chalets all have a small but fully equipped kitchen, fire place, lounge suite, DStv, flat screen TV, romantic candle lit bath, double shower and his and her basin. The extra length king size bed is made with the freshest white linen, old fashioned home washed and sun dried, offers a variety of pillows and is decorated with fresh flowers and bush leaves upon arrival!

Abloom offers a choice between three Executive Suites - sleeping two and one Presidential Suite - sleeping two. The Presidential Suite is more luxurious, has a larger deck and the superior view.

Dining

Abloom does not have a restaurant but does offer exquisite meals for the connoisseurs! Dining at Abloom is a spectacular experience. Lowie serves his three course gourmet meals in your suite where the table has been set under the breath taking African star lit sky. All meals are prepared with the freshest local products which inspire Lowie to design and prepare a unique set menu that may differ daily, al subject to the available ingredients and Lowie’s creative mood!

Wellness

Carmen runs their award winning, exclusive wellness centre, where truly unique treatments and romantic full day spa packages are on the menu. All treatments are done in-suite on your private deck with stunning views of the bush. An experience you will not want to miss. Carmen mixes her own massage oils and uses the beautiful world renowned products of Theravine, a 100% South African eco-friendly product. Pre-booking is advised.

Eco-friendly

Abloom looks after the planet. All products used in the suites and the spa are produced in South Africa and are eco-friendly. The spa doesn’t use disposables and our water is of a good quality so we invite you to drink directly from the tap instead of the bottle! In our kitchen we pride ourselves to use as much organic ingredients as possible. When building our suites we used local and recycled materials, eco-friendly cement, rocks from the farm en local builders. We save up to 10% electricity by using laptops instead of desktops and our dream is to one day go off the grid completely!

THINGS TO DO IN THE AREA:

• Walking with lions

• Horseback safari

• Self-drive safari

• Visit to the picturesque town of Cullinan

• Cullinan mine tour

• Italian Prisoners of War graves

• Township tour

• Hot air ballooning

THINGS TO DO IN WITHIN 1.5 HOURS DRIVE:

• Constitution Hill (internationally awarded)

• Cradle of Mankind (World Heritage site):

• Maropeng

• Caves

• Visit Pretoria

• Visit Johannesburg

Cullinan

In 1902, Sir Thomas Cullinan found a diamond pipe, and by 1904 semidetached houses were built for mine workers. The town was therefore named after Sir Cullinan. On 25 June 1905, the small town made its way into history with the discovery of the legendary Cullinan Diamond. Frederick Wells, who worked for the Premier Diamond Mining Company as a surface manager, made the magnificent find that has remained the biggest diamond ever found in the world.

The Cullinan Diamond weighed 621.2 grams (or 3 106 carats) and was approximately 10 centimetres in length. The Transvaal government bought the diamond and gave it to King Edward VII, as a birthday gift. In 1908, the diamond was cut in half and the biggest piece can still be viewed today, as it is set in a sceptre that forms part of the Crown Jewels of Britain.

Amongst the attractions in Cullinan, visitors will still be able to see the semidetached houses built in 1904, visit the graves of the Italian POW's who perished here during the Second World War or admire the beautiful stone church that was designed by Sir Herbert Baker. One of the most popular activities in town is the tour of the Cullinan Diamond Mine. They are still the leaders in producing some of the best quality gems in the world, and together with a surface tour, visitors will be able to see the mine shaft, the diamond and replica display room, underground tunnel models and the hoist room. After exploring how these precious stones are mined, visitors are invited to the Cullinan Diamond Mine Market, where they can see diamonds being cut and are able to purchase diamonds and jewelery.

Beautiful Women

My Beautiful World

Glorious Food

Lightley’s Holiday Houseboats – Knysna

CAPTAIN OF YOUR OWN HOLIDAY    LIVE THE DREAM ... aboard fully equipped, 4- or 6-berth self-drive houseboats.

They will show you how to pilot your craft and make you Captain Of Your Own Holiday - catered or self-catered, you’ll be free to explore the safe, tranquil waters of Knysna’s Lagoon.   For holiday-makers, house boating is your accommodation - and it’s your entertainment; for honeymooners, it’s romance; and for business people, it’s an unusual conference and team building opportunity.  

The 6-berth, aluminium-hulled Aqua-chalets and newly-built, 4-berth, GRP Leisure Liners come complete with bedding, galleys (with fridges and gas stoves), ‘heads’ (shower rooms with chemical toilets) and portable barbecues. And the shore facility offers spacious ablution blocks and an indoor/outdoor conference and functions venue. 

 With Lightleys Holiday Houseboats you’ll enjoy all the pleasures of boating, and you’ll have the ideal base from which to discover the Garden Route. No experience or skipper’s license required.

What’s on board? Each boat is equipped with gas stove, two burner hob, 12 volt electric fridge, hot and cold water shower, porta potty chemical toilet, CD player and 12 volt electric lights plus cutlery, bedding and kitchen utensils. All the boats have a charcoal barbeque on board for the one that did not getaway. The new design Leisure Liners are equipped with swimming platforms at the back, a targa wing with collapsible sun awning. 

Beautiful Women

My Beautiful World

Glorious Food