Accomodation

Review: Gooderson Natal Spa Hot Springs and Leisure Resort!

Published

9 years ago

29 November 2015

Durbanite

On Monday 2nd of November, Kimmi I went on a little adventure – a quick getaway to Gooderson Natal Spa Hot Springs and Leisure Resort! Before the trip I had never, in all honesty, even heard of the resort, but after a very small bit of internet research, I thought it looked lovely. Little did I know what this hidden gem has to offer!

The Gooderson group has such a wonderful range of different hotels and resorts, from the Natal Spa with it’s hot springs, to Dumazulu near Hluhluwe with it’s traditional zulu village, to Drakensberg Gardens with their gorgeous Berg scenery and golf course.

The Natal Spa is situated just outside of Paulpietersburg, and is around 4 and a half hours drive from Durban. It’s set in 550 hectares of gorgeous mountains and KZN bushveld, with views of the Bivane River. There are various options for accommodation, including hotel rooms (both standard and deluxe rooms), self catering units and timeshares, as well as caravan and camping facilities.

They have a vast abundance of activities to choose from, so there is something for everyone – hot and cold swimming pools, super tube slides into the pools, quad biking, mountain biking, hiking, horse riding, a BMX track, a paintball arena, an obstacle course, tennis courts, squash courts, bird watching, fishing, an adventure golf course, a kiddies play area, 5 trampolines, picnic and braai sites, a game room with a pool table and table tennis, and a wellness centre with a gym and a Cellu-Beauty Spa, with therapists offering a variety of beauty treatments.

Even with all of these activities, the main reason that guests flock to this gorgeous resort is for the hot springs – different pools are filled with water from the natural hot spring at the river. These thermal, healing waters rise from fault fissures and can be between 36 and 45 degrees centigrade. The water contains a lot of Iron, Sulphar and anti-oxidants, as well as many other minerals and chemicals, and the water is highly alkaline. While the sulphar smell isn’t particularly pleasant (it has a strong ‘eggy’ scent to it), you get used to this quite quickly, and soon you can barely smell it. These minerals and chemicals have many benefits – they’re known to assist with digestive and gastric disorders, gout, rheumatism, insomnia, liver disorders, urinary problems and blood circulation. The water is very soothing and fantastic for your skin, even though it wasn’t always recognised for these benefits – the San were said to have avoided these waters, as they thought that the warmth and bubbles were created by a large black snake living underground.

I couldn’t believe how warm the water of the pools was, and after a lot of joking at the smell of the sulphar, we all slowly quietened down, as the water is so relaxing to float in – all of the muscles in my back that were tight and stressed were slowly relaxing. GM Ryan Smith had told us that as we weren’t accustomed to the waters, we’d probably sleep like the dead that night, and after just an hour in the pools it was understandable why. The long soak also left us all incredibly thirsty – perhaps drink water after the pools instead of the delicious cocktails that we grabbed before heading back to our rooms for a quick change before dinner.

The restaurant is smart-casual, so you don’t want to be wondering in there in your bikini and slops! A refreshing round of drinks at the bar and some light chatter with Mr Smith and the Banqueting manager Jason, and we headed upstairs to the restaurant for the most fabulous buffet dinner I have had in a long time – there was a cold salad bar with seafood as well, a soup bar with a different soup each night, as well as fresh croutons and bread rolls, two different roasts with roast potatoes and gravy, and then a variety of different veggies and dishes, ensuring that there is a favourite for everyone. My highlight, however, was the dessert buffet – all I can say is WOW! Some of the most gorgeous cold desserts, a hot one with custard (we had the Queen of Puddings, which was divine), and several different ice creams, along with ice cream cones and every sprinkle you could think of. We were all starving, so after a glass of good red wine, and several platefuls of food, Mr Smith’s warnings about the waters came true, and every single one of us were in bed by 9pm. I usually battle with insomnia, yet I fell asleep quickly and slept deeper than I have in ages.

Next morning, after a quick shower and booking a spa treatment for later in the afternoon, I headed to the restaurant for breakfast – once again in full buffet style. Tea, coffee and fresh fruit juices were on offer, and the buffet was once again impressive. I helped myself to not even a third of the variety of foods on offer, and once I’d had a huge breakfast of fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, a grilled tomato and a flapjack, I was powered up for the day ahead. I had some time before my out ride on horseback through the resort, so I did some exploring of the resort and walked around for just over an hour – I can’t believe how huge the place is, and how much there is to do, no one could possibly be bored there.

Horse riding was an experience in itself, especially for the other 3 on the out ride who had never ridden before, but our guide assured us that the horses were very calm and they really were. We rode for about an hour and a half, taking in the beautiful scenery, and we even saw ostriches and a whole herd of warthogs.

Kimmi chose to go quad biking (being the adrenaline junkie she is) instead of horse riding and this is what she had to say:

“I didn’t have closed shoes with me, but decided the very fashionable “slops and socks” would do the trick. Once on the quad bike we were given instructions by our guide and my first push of the accelerator button was slightly too hard – I almost fell off! Once I got the hang of things we headed out on the road and off into a field. The views along the ride were breath-taking. We truly do live in a beautiful country, riding through flower filled valleys and along gorgeous rivers. Our average cruising speed was about 25km/hr, stopping occasionally to take some scenic pictures, and speeding up to 45km/hr when we had a clear run. At one point a group of calves were standing on the dirt road, and we needed to persuade them to move so we could pass – quite the task but we did it! The ride took about an hour and a half in total and upon my return I realized I hadn’t put ANY sunscreen on and I had turned a bright pink! The staff at the hotel were very helpful, offering me all types of home remedies to cure my sunburn (thank you!) – and luckily they worked! It was an awesome experience and I look forward to riding again soon!”

After yet another delicious light lunch, it was back to the pools before heading upstairs to shower and change before my spa appointment. I treated myself to the Spa Paraffin pedicure, and it was an hour and a half of scrubbing, massaging, masking, soaking and pampering bliss. I just wish I’d had time to throw in a massage and a facial too!

We once again stuffed ourselves silly at the buffet dinner (were they trying to kill us by over-feeding? If that’s the case, I’d die quite happily with all of this delicious, hearty food), a few of us had a couple of drinks in the Raptors Bar, before calling it a night. After being once again impressed at the turn down service in my room, with a little chocolate on the pillow (so few hotels do this anymore), I sunk into my soft and comfy bed and slept the sleep of angels. The following morning we’d be heading back to Durban after breakfast, and while I had missed my home, I just wished I’d had longer to fully experience the resort and everything that it has to offer.

The Gooderson Natal Spa is a truly wonderful place for so many different kinds of vacationer – there are rooms for conferences and this would be a fantastic venue for a team building retreat for companies, there is a gorgeous honeymoon suite and spa treatments for couples wanting a little alone time, play areas and swimming pools for families with children, and the warm pools and various activities for groups of friends planning a fun-filled getaway. At R750 pp per night, including breakfast, the accommodation is so affordable too – just as the Gooderson Leisure group says ‘Good Value, Good Fun’. Now just to plan my next trip…

Author: Durbanite

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Accomodation

Review: A Luxurious Escape at Qambathi Mountain Lodge

Published

2 months ago

24 February 2025

Melissa Moodley

Nestled in the heart of Kamberg Valley in the Drakensberg, Qambathi Mountain Lodge is a hidden gem designed exclusively for couples seeking a tranquil retreat. As Durbanites, we had the pleasure of spending a rejuvenating weekend at this stunning mountain lodge, and it truly exceeded all expectations.

From the moment we arrived, we were treated to exceptional hospitality. The gracious hostess welcomed us with a glass of champagne at their stylish yet homely bar. As we walked through the entrance, we were led through a glass passageway that opened up into a beautifully designed lounge. The decor seamlessly blends modern elegance with a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Intricately designed chancellor beads enhance the ambiance, while the lodge’s wine cellar offers guests the opportunity to indulge in wine and gin tastings.

The Greenhouse Suite: A Luxurious Stay
Qambathi Mountain Lodge features only five exclusive suites, which get booked up quickly due to high demand. Our bags were promptly taken to our suite—the Greenhouse Suite—which boasts a sleek, modern aesthetic with high-end finishes. Each room is thoughtfully equipped with a Nespresso machine, offering a delightful selection of coffee and tea. One of the standout features of the suite was the locally crafted artwork showcasing the wild animals that roam the property. Stepping out onto our private sitting area, we were greeted with a breathtaking view of zebras, horses, and donkeys peacefully grazing.

Activities & Experiences
Qambathi Mountain Lodge offers a variety of unique experiences designed to enhance your stay. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there is something for everyone. One of the lodge’s most highly recommended activities is horseback riding, an experience that allows guests to take in the stunning scenery in an intimate and unique way. Additionally, we embarked on a 5km hiking trail within the property, which led us through a picturesque waterfall and stream, offering mesmerizing views of the Drakensberg mountains. Guests can also enjoy trout fishing in the nearby streams, indulge in a romantic picnic set up by the lodge, or participate in a rejuvenating yoga session amidst nature.

A Culinary Delight
Qambathi Mountain Lodge takes pride in its exquisite dining experience, offering a daily changing five-course menu prepared by a specialized chef. Our dinner was a gastronomic journey, starting with a mini feta pizza, followed by a creamy butternut soup, and culminating in a delectable lamb dish served with fragrant rice. Each course was beautifully presented, with locally sourced ingredients adding to the rich flavors. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the malva pudding, accompanied by homemade ice cream—a dessert not to be missed.

The morning after, we indulged in a delightful homemade breakfast buffet. From fresh oats, muesli, and yogurt to warm, flaky scones with cream, every bite was a treat. For those who prefer a heartier meal, the lodge also offers hot breakfast options such as eggs Benedict and a traditional farmhouse breakfast.

Unparalleled Service & Special Touches
The staff at Qambathi go above and beyond to ensure guests feel at home. They regularly checked in with us, ensuring our needs were met, whether it was arranging additional experiences or providing in-room comforts. The nightly turndown service was a lovely touch, adding to the overall sense of luxury.

A Celebrity Retreat
Adding to its prestige, Qambathi Mountain Lodge has even hosted Hollywood royalty—Tom Cruise himself stayed here for several months while filming the latest Mission Impossible installment, set to release in 2025. It’s easy to see why, as the lodge offers a stunning deck area perfect for unwinding with sundowners by the pool, accompanied by delightful chef-prepared snacks.

Relax & Rejuvenate
For couples seeking ultimate relaxation, the lodge also offers a serene spa where guests can indulge in a rejuvenating couples’ massage. The tranquil surroundings only enhance the experience, making it a must-do during your stay.

Final Thoughts
Qambathi Mountain Lodge offers an exclusive retreat with only five suites, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Despite its limited number of suites, the lodge can accommodate up to 10 guests, making it perfect for small gatherings. Owners Nadia and Stephen have curated an exceptional retreat that truly feels like a home away from home. Whether you’re looking to explore the surrounding beauty of the Drakensberg or simply unwind in luxury, Qambathi Mountain Lodge offers an unforgettable experience. With its perfect blend of natural beauty, top-tier hospitality, and fine dining, we highly recommend this sanctuary to couples seeking a romantic and rejuvenating getaway.

Whether you seek a romantic getaway, a family reunion, a company retreat, or a gathering of friends, Qambathi can accommodate that for you. We invite you to immerse yourself in the serenity and beauty of this nature lodge, where every moment is crafted to perfection.

www.qambathi.com

Author: Melissa Moodley

Accomodation

Honeymoon in the most romantic place in KZN

Published

2 years ago

15 May 2023

Durbanite

Planning the ideal honeymoon can be exceptionally daunting, not to mention expensive, but if you’re looking local, and want to continue the romance long past your wedding day, Granny Mouse Country House & Spa is a definite contender! Renowned for being one of the most romantic getaway destinations in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, this idyllic retreat offers the perfect setting for a romantic honeymoon, with its tranquil atmosphere, breathtaking scenery, world-class facilities and attentive staff.

Granny Mouse’s accommodation is luxury at its finest, ranging from their secluded garden rooms, nestled in their spectacular gardens, to their sprawling deluxe suites with private balconies overlooking the Lions River. Each and every room has been designed with comfort and luxury in mind, and are equipped with large bath tubs and aromatic bath salts and oils for those intimate evenings in.

Following the excitement of the wedding, what could be better than relaxing in their on-site, state-of-the-art spa, which offers an extensive range of treatments and therapies, including hydrotherapy to replenish your mind and body before you have to get back to reality?

One of the standout features of Granny Mouse is a culinary haven, offering guests a diverse range of delectable experiences. From their fine-dining restaurant, Eaves, with its sophisticated menu of modern fusion cuisine, to their open-sky Bistro, providing a more casual dining experience, and their wine cellar, which is undoubtedly the perfect spot for a romantic dinner for two. These, coupled with their award-winning wine menu, will have you toasting to your new life together. No matter where you choose to dine whilst on honeymoon, the Granny Mouse team will pull out all the stops to ensure the most romantic of occasions.

In addition to the fantastic facilities, Granny Mouse Country House & Spa is also ideally located for exploring the surrounding area. From picnics in the Caversham Valley to wine tasting, or just taking a leisurely stroll around the local stores to choose some new items for your home together, the list is endless.

Don’t miss out on an unforgettable honeymoon. Book your stay at Granny Mouse Country House & Spa today and let their team ensure a romantic and memorable experience for you and your partner.

BOOK HERE

Author: Durbanite

Accomodation

9 Reasons 1 Licorna Beach is the Ideal Umhlanga Stay

Published

2 years ago

30 October 2022

Shelley

In the heart of Umhlanga Beach lies a beautifully furnished, newly renovated beach house. Being a double storey with views and access to the ocean, 1 Licorna Beach is the perfect luxury getaway.

Suitable for both business and vacation rentals, this beachfront property will give you the “home away from home” relaxed feel with a pool, garden, outside braai area.

This beach house can accommodate up to 6 guests, and comprises of 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area. Stay entertained with smart tv, dual view DSTV and free wifi.

We’ve listed 9 of the many reasons why 1 Licorna Beach should be your next stay in Umhlanga:

1. UMHLANGA PROMENADE ACCESS
Enjoy direct access to the Umhlanga Promenade: a stretch along the Umhlanga coast and nature reserve, perfect for walks or runs and home to restaurants, coffee shops, ice cream spots and local vendors.

2. DIRECT BEACH ACCESS
Go for a swim in the warm Indian Ocean or chill on the shore. With beach access and a choice of four beaches in walking distance, what more do you need? Make sure there’s a life guard on duty if you go for a dip!

3. UMHLANGA NATURE RESERVE
Explore the coastal wildlife, birds and forest along the Umhlanga Nature Reserve wooden boardwalk and trail. Be sure to check out the Bike & Bean coffee shop at the Northside of the Umhlanga Promenade.

4. FINE-DINING RESTAURANTS
Spoil yourself with a dinner date at The Chef’s Table or the 14 on Chartwell, both just a stone’s throw away at Umhlanga Village.

5. FREE WIFI
Stay connected with 1 Licorna’s free wifi during your stay. Whether for business or leisure, you and your family or guests are covered.

6. DAILY HOUSEKEEPING
No one wants to do the dishes & sweep on holiday! What’s better than arriving back to your accommodation to find it’s been cleaned?

7. 24 HOUR SECURITY & SAFE PARKING
Safety is a priority at Licorna Beach. Relax knowing that you, your family & belongings are tucked away in a gated, access controlled estate.

8. POOL ACCESS
The communal pool is available for a dip, if the sea isn’t calling. Whether you’re braaiing, chilling or just cooling off – it’s nice to have options.

9. SELF-CATERING
Explore new restaurants or enjoy the comforts of home cooking. Remember, you won’t have to do the dishes either. Don’t forget to have a braai while you’re at 1 Licorna.