Accomodation
Winter Tasting Menu at Granny Mouse
I had the opportunity to go and do a tasting of the brand new Winter Tasting Menu at Granny Mouse Country House & Spa in the KwaZulu Natal Midlands.
Although I haven’t had the pleasure of staying at the hotel as a guest, I have been there before. The food is always outstanding, and it’s the situated in the most gorgeous part of the midlands meander. On my drive up, there were trees in all shades of orange, gold and red (my absolute FAVOURITE part of Autumn), and the air was chilly yet fresh.
Walking from my car to the reception, I was greeted by several members of staff strolling past, in the most friendly fashion – even the security guard at the gate was lovely and welcomed me with a smile! It’s so rare to find this kind of warmth in every single staff member at a hotel.
I was greeted in the lounge next to reception with a crackling fire and a glass of delicious Louisvale Chardonnay Pinot Noir Rosé MCC handed to me by the General Manager, Sean Granger.
Sean explained to us that The Eaves restaurant at Granny Mouse, where you will be able to experience the tasting, is all about a unique and fresh approach to dining, and how they like to bend the rules when it comes to the way the meals are put together. You can experience ‘country-relaxed’ fine dining at The Eaves, as opposed to a very uptight and formal dining experience. This lends to it’s ‘home away from home’ feel that is guaranteed to you coming back for more!
The creators of the amazing dishes are not referred to as mere ‘chefs’ at Granny Mouse, but rather as ‘Culinary Artists’, which is exactly what they are, as the dishes are works of art! The planning for each dish is started as a sketch, and we had these on our menu sheets that were at our seats when we sat down to begin the delicious task of tasting. So carefully thought out and planned.
The first course consisted of a Chickpea & Garlic puff pastry parcel, which was served with sour honey poached melon cubes, mildly spiced curry cream and coriander pearls, garnished with crispy coriander leaves. It was served with a glass of chilled Hartenberg 2014 Riesling.
I tried a taste of all the elements of this dish separately, and together with the wine, and they all work so well together. The pastry parcel was warming and absolutely divine, but when paired with the very gentle curry cream and the coriander pearls and sour honey melon, it was the perfect combination of sweet and savoury flavours, and the ideal cold-weather starter. The Riesling brought out the sweetness of the melon and honey too, which just added to the flavour.
First Course
The second course was a Dill & Verbena Sous-Vide Kingklip with white cabbage frittata, brandy flambeéd orange segments, maple carrot puree & candied orange peel. This course was served with a beer! The Old Main Brewery 1806 Real Ale.
Whoever would have thought to pair a fine-dining meal with a craft beer? Clearly the Granny Mouse culinary artist’s really do know how to cook outside the box, and it worked SO WELL! I’m not really a beer drinker, but this Real Ale was just light and delicious, and just bitter enough to bring out the flavours in the dish. The kingklip was perfectly cooked, and the white cabbage frittata was surprisingly delicious. But the star of this dish was the maple carrot puree – it had the most incredible smokiness to it, and when tasted with the orange segments and candied orange peel, it was sublime.
*fun fact – Old Main Brewery bottled the Real Ale especially for Granny Mouse, and this is why they are plain, dark-glass bottles with no labels!*
Second Course
The third course was a House-Smoked Lamb Loin, pan fried with brussel sprouts and mint, served with toasted sunflower seed crusted oyster mushrooms, sunflower seed brittle and mint jus. This smokey delight was served with a glass of Fairview Pegleg Carignan 2009.
I am a huge lamb-lover, and this dish did not disappoint. The meat was smoked in-house by culinary artist Wyland Green, and was melt-in-your-mouth tasty. I am, however, not a brussel sprouts eater, yet I ate everything on this plate! I think the smokiness of the meat and the sweetness of the mint and seed brittle just brought out a nicer flavour to the sprouts. The sunflower seed crusted oyster mushrooms were also delicious, and I was left with a clean plate once again. All of this paired with the lovely and rich red wine was the perfect combination.
Third Course
The fourth and final course was a sushi-lovers delight. An Asian Infusion of a spiced basmati rice pudding maki roll, wrapped in Rooibos jelly and stuffed with carrot puree, topped with wasabi white chocolate gel and sesame tuille, and served with cranberry ginger caviar and cucumber sorbet. This was served with straight-up ice-cold Pimms No 1.
This was just creative food at it’s best. The dessert was served as if it were real sushi, with the ‘ginger’ and ‘wasabi’ on the side – what was in actual fact pink cranberry and ginger caviar, and the most incredible cucumber sorbet, topped with verbena leaves. The ‘sushi’ itself was divine! The basmati rice in the rice pudding was the perfect amount of crunchy, the carrot puree was a gentle flavour to the slight burn of the wasabi white chocolate gel, and the Rooibos jelly wrapping was firm and delicious! When you managed to get a little bit of each aspect of the plate, onto your spoon and into your mouth at once, it tasted just like a proper Pimms cocktail with all of the trimmings, and this is why it was ultimately served with Pimms liqueur. To me, the idea of cucumber sorbet in a winter dessert was so novel, and yet with all of the other flavours it worked to create an out-of-this-world winter dessert.
Fourth Course
All in all, this has to have been quite possibly the best meal of my life. Every element was delicious and paired together with so much thought and attention to detail.
The hotel and grounds are unbelievably beautiful, and the perfect combination of old-school charm, and modern amenities. It’s also the perfect place for a romantic weekend away with your loved one, or the ideal venue for a wedding (I myself will be attending a very close friend’s wedding there next year – great choice my friend!). They also have a spa, for those decadent pamper treatments that we all want need to get every so often.
Chapel
At the moment Granny Mouse are running some fabulous specials, so please check out their specials page on their website. They have the more fine-dining restaurant, The Eaves, as well as a more relaxed Bistro restaurant, as well as an extensive wine cellar, where you can have various tastings (the brandy and chocolate tasting sounds right up my alley).
The Winter Wonder 2016 special is by far the best value for money you can get on a romantic weekend away. It consists of the following: –
- Minimum 2 nights stay in a Garden or Deluxe Room
- Bed and Breakfast
- 1 x 30min back and neck massage per person
- A R250 discount voucher to put towards any future visits
- 6 bottles of delicious wine to take home with you on departure
All of that gloriousness comes in at a total of R3300 (R1650 for 2 nights stay). This is valid until the end of September, so if it sounds as appealing to you as it does to me, then get booking ASAP!
And finally…
Granny Mouse are running a fabulous competition on their Facebook page! During June, have a selfie taken in the frame at their Selfie Point. Share it on your social media platforms, tagging Granny Mouse and using the hashtags provided, and you will be entered into a draw for the best #GMselfie for June. The winner receives the unbelievable prize of 2 nights in a Deluxe Suite for 2 people, including breakfast, a 5 course food and wine pairing dinner in The Cellar on one night, and a Brandy and Chocolate tasting. This prize is valued at R7000!!!
The point is to get creative with your selfie, so go on and get snapping 😉
A huge thank you to Granny Mouse Country House and Spa, the General Manager Sean Granger, and the Culinary Artists Kirstie du Toit, Wyland Green and Leon de Kok for a fabulous afternoon.
#GMSelfie
Author: Durbanite
There’s something magical about escaping the bustle of Durban and heading into Zululand for a weekend of tranquility, warm hospitality, and adventure. Our stay at Ghost Mountain Inn was nothing short of unforgettable – from the moment we arrived, we were wrapped in the comfort of this family-friendly lodge set against the dramatic backdrop of Ghost Mountain itself.
The staff at Ghost Mountain Inn were incredibly warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home from the start. To our delight, we were upgraded to a stunning suite. Waiting inside was a thoughtful welcome: chilled champagne and a beautifully prepared platter of strawberries, fruit, and cheese. The suite itself was spacious — perfect for a romantic couple’s getaway, yet roomy enough to comfortably host families. With an outdoor shower, a tub, and all the amenities you could need, it was the kind of place you don’t want to leave.
Exploring the Lodge
Our first day was spent exploring the lodge. A highlight was the stylish bar near reception, where cocktails flow as easily as the Zululand sunsets. Dinner that evening was a treat: a lively braai buffet where the chefs grilled everything to perfection. The spread included an impressive variety of salads, sides, starters, and a dessert station that made it impossible not to indulge.
Adding to the atmosphere, the lodge was abuzz with energy thanks to a cricket tournament hosted during our stay. The vibe was vibrant and social, with families and groups of friends gathering across the lodge’s many spaces.
Family Fun & Outdoor Adventures
Ghost Mountain Inn is truly family-friendly, and we discovered this even more on our second day. The property has not one but two kid-friendly pools, perfect for both relaxation and play. Beyond the pools, a wooden jetty leads out across the dam – a picturesque spot where you might spot hippos if you’re lucky (we weren’t this time, but the view was worth it). All the while, the looming presence of Ghost Mountain provides the perfect backdrop for those picture-perfect Instagram moments.
Of course, no Zululand trip is complete without a game drive. We ventured into the Mkuze area, where the Big Five roam. The experience of spotting lions, leopards, buffalo, and other wildlife in their natural habitat was a highlight of our trip.
Dining Experiences
Mealtimes at Ghost Mountain Inn are as much a highlight as the activities. For lunch, we enjoyed the casual outdoor restaurant with its pizza oven, serving up fresh pizzas alongside hearty burgers, pastas, and light bites. Dinner the next evening offered something different – a set menu with options ranging from steak to chicken, catering to a wide variety of tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a buffet feast or a relaxed à la carte meal, there’s always something to suit.
Final Thoughts
Our weekend at Ghost Mountain Inn was a perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a weekend with friends, or a family bush holiday, this Zululand gem offers something for everyone.
With warm hospitality, beautiful surroundings, and endless activities, Ghost Mountain Inn is a destination we’ll keep recommending to Durbanites looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Tel: +27 (0)35 573 1025
Mobile/Whatsapp: +27 (0)64 664 6495
Author: Melissa Moodley
Experience the magic of Baroque in the Bush 2025, set against the untamed beauty of Shingwedzi Camp in Kruger National Park.
Enjoy five unforgettable concerts over three days, serenaded by works by Bach, Händel, Vivaldi, and more.
Let the wildlife be your audience – while elephants wander past, elevate your evenings with open-air buffet dinners, star-studded skies, and the crackle of laughter from our quiz break.
📅 Choose your session: 12–15 | 15–18 | 18–21 September 2025
📌 Only Camping Available @R5,250 per person
👉 To book, contact Kim: 082 824 9378 | kim@montybrett.com
Author: Shelley
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.
Author: Melissa Moodley
