Accomodation
Review: Granny Mouse Country House & Spa
This past (very chilly) weekend, we headed up to the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, to spend a night at the gorgeous Granny Mouse Country House & Spa.
After checking out the weather forecast for the weekend, I knew that there’d be a chance of snow in the Drakensberg, so the temperatures were going to plummet. Luckily, I knew that Granny Mouse have wood-burning fires in all of their rooms, and electric blankets on the beds, just for that extra bit of warmth. Nevertheless, I still packed my winter coat, warm boots and brand new Woolies scarf.
On arrival, we were greeted by the friendly staff at reception, with a roaring fire and a glass of champagne each. We were booked into a Deluxe Suite (fancy!), and were given a brief tour of the lounge, dining areas, and then shown to our room. You have a choice of Garden Rooms, Deluxe Rooms and Deluxe Suites at Granny Mouse. The rooms all have king size beds (which can be replaced with twin beds on request), and the suites have stunning bay windows and bigger bathrooms, with a massive bath, double basins and a shower. Our room was beautiful, decorated in a very country-chic style, and the little wood-burning fire would be lit for us while we were at dinner that evening.
We dropped our luggage off in our suite and headed out to explore the grounds for a bit. Granny Mouse is the ideal wedding venue, as they have a small chapel on their grounds, as well as an area that can be used as either the wedding reception venue, or a venue for conferences or company team building.
They also have two different restaurants (a cafe-style Bistro, and The Eaves, their fine-dining restaurant), as well as a wine cellar where many different wines are housed, and where tastings are often held – you can do wine tastings or even a brandy, liqueur or chocolate tasting there!
An older-vintage bottle of wine from my favourite wine estate in the Cape.
The bar (the Mouse and Lion) is quite cozy and inviting with a roaring fire and a television screen – perfect for us to catch the South Africa vs Ireland rugby game later that evening. The bar itself is fully stocked with a variety of spirits, wines, ciders, beers… you name it (you wont be going thirsty here!) We grabbed a warming glass of Stone Road Shiraz here, to help us combat the chill outside.
How unique is this – wine corks, framed and lit up on the wall in the bar.
Although we didn’t get a chance to check it out, Granny Mouse also has a separate, self-catering Farmhouse that sleeps up to 12 people, and is fully furnished in the classic, country style.
The grounds of the hotel are beautiful and leave you feeling so in touch with nature. The area is rich with over 200 species of bird, and some wildlife along the Lions River, which we could view from the balcony in our suite.
The grounds boast the same countryside feel, with bathtubs filled with plants, ivy creeping up the trees, and the cutest little sign posts everywhere.
We indulged in a spa treatment during the afternoon, but I’ll be telling you all about that in a separate post next week – possibly one of the nicest spas I’ve visited, and the most incredible full-body massage.
With the temperature dropping a little further, we threw on our warm coats and headed to The Eaves for the most delicious dinner. They have switched over to their winter menu, and other than our delicious Amouse Bouche we dined on the Garlic and Chickpea puff pastry parcel, the Pork Loin and the Dill and Verbene Sous-Vide Kingklip. And then of course, we were complete rebels, and ordered our own bottle of wine, rather than pairing the dish with the matching drink.
Blue Cream Cheese, fresh butter and Aubergine Atchar were served with fresh bread. The Amouse Bouche of grilled chicken, rocket, red onion and paprika mayo.
We were so hungry, and the food looked so amazing, that we forgot to photograph it before we started eating! From the top, Garlic & Puff Pastry Parcel; Pork Loin.
Dill & Verbene Sous-Vide Kingklip
Unfortunately we didn’t have the space needed to fit in dessert, and instead we had a nightcap at the bar, before retiring to our suite, full, warm, completely satisfied and relaxed. We were greeted by a roaring fire and the bed had been turned down and our electric blankets turned on. Bliss!
The following morning, waking up to the beautiful view, we left our cozy room for the breakfast buffet in the Bistro. I honestly don’t know why I felt so hungry, after eating so much the night before, but I needed to feed the growling in my stomach.
Granny Mouse works on a bed and breakfast basis, so breakfast is included in the price of your stay. And boy, do they make sure you’re properly fed in the morning.
The cold buffet consisted of 4 different fruit juices, cheeses and cold meats, an array of breads, croissants and muffins, fresh fruit, cereal, yoghurt and a children’s table with donuts and rice krispie treats.
You could also order tea and coffee, and a selection of hot, cooked breakfasts from the waiters who were so friendly and eager to assist.
My very balanced breakfast – fruit and a donut, and the ‘Banger & Hash’, a delicious cheesegriller, hash brown, poached eggs and tomato relish.
After rolling out of breakfast (we were that stuffed), we packed the car with all of our goodies, and headed to grab a picture at the Selfie Frame – for the whole month of June, if you snap a picture at the Selfie Frame and upload it to social media using the hashtag #GMselfie, you can stand a chance to win 2 nights for 2 people in a Deluxe Suite, including breakfast, a 5 course dinner paired with wine, in the Cellar on one night, and a Brandy and chocolate tasting on the other. This is valued at R7000 in total… so GET SNAPPING! (more details on their Facebook group here)
Thank you to all of the staff at Granny Mouse, for a truly unforgettable stay and fantastic service all round – we’ll be back soon, I promise!
P.S. Check out the SPECIALS page on the Granny Mouse website, as they have some fantastic winter accommodation specials at the moment.
One of the members of staff who really stuck with us was Sbonga – he was bright, cheerful and the most helpful person we met there.
Author: Durbanite
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
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.
Author: Durbanite
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.
To book your stay:
Cell: 083 492 3241
Website: www.1licornabeach.co.za
Address:
82 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga
Author: Shelley
-
Uncategorised1 month agoParlotones in the Park: Family Fun & Live Music at Chris Saunders Park!
-
Attractions3 weeks agoNOW OPEN: Westown Square Shongweni
-
Attractions3 weeks agoKenny G is coming to Durban, South Africa in October!
-
Business3 weeks agoSani Springs Natural Spring Water Delivered Straight to You from the Drakensberg
-
Businesses3 weeks ago90s Mania: The Ultimate Throwback Party Hits Durban! (Kids Under 12 are FREE in April!)
-
Attractions2 weeks agoGet Ready for the Supertech Torque Motoring Festival
-
Entertainment2 weeks agoBluey is coming to Durban for the FIRST TIME!
-
Art2 weeks agoThe East Coast Radio House & Garden Show 2025