Accomodation
Granny Mouse Country House
We recently sent our contributor, Carmen to review Granny Mouse House & Spa.
Here’s what she had to say about her experience:
“My husband and I had an amazing two-day stay at Granny Mouse Country House & Spa, which is only an hour’s drive from Durban. As we entered the majestic gates and drove down to the lodge, we already sensed the homely feel about the place. We were welcomed by Zaba, who gave us a drink on arrival. The check in procedure was quick and efficient, and then we were shown to our beautiful room with its sweeping views of the valley and waterfall.
We unpacked quickly and made our way back to the dining-room where a glorious lunch was awaiting us. I had a beef casserole with herbed mash and my husband had the same. The staff were attentive and very polite. We then went for a spectacular walk, about 4kms, along the banks of the Lions River where we could walk quite close to the waterfall. Eventually we headed back to our room to freshen up and try out the large oval bathtub, before returning to the diningroom for dinner. We ate in the Bistro, and both had the soup of the day as a starter. I love soup! So it was delicious. My husband had the sole and vegetables as his main and I had the beef fillet and veggies. Both of these main meals were superb and cooked to perfection.
The dessert was an absolute treat which was a chocolate lasagne, made by the culinary chef.
This was made up of an oreo base and chocolate mousse layers and swirls of chocolate as decoration. It really looked too good to eat, although we practically inhaled its decadence once we tucked in!
We then moved to one of the lounges to finish our drinks before retiring to our room. There is a turn down service, and housekeeping leaves little notes about the weather forecast and replaces used towels and facecloths with fresh, clean ones, as well as places little chocolates on the pillows!
The next day we woke up feeling very refreshed and made our way to breakfast, which consisted of a full buffet. All I can say was wow! There was so much choice and everything was so beautifully displayed. While we ate through the delicious breakfast we had monkeys peering through the windows (which have to remain closed) as they like to steal the breakfast treats.
After breakfast we decided to take a drive and do a part of the Midlands Meander. We stopped at “Piggly Wiggly” and browsed around the different little shops – all unique, from candle making and custom made furniture to children’s toys, and a miniature steam-train that children can ride on. There are also many different places to eat. You will find a lot of variety and something for everyone to enjoy. After spending quite a while here we then decided to go to “The Junction”. They have an amazing “Waffle Shack” and lots of very unusual shops especially for people who enjoy doing crafts. The place is so pretty and quaint, and after spending the rest of the morning there we then headed back to Granny Mouse for lunch. We were amazed again with the beautiful food. I had a scrumptious penne pasta with butternut, and my husband had a spicy chicken fillet with vegetables. This was all served by cheerful waitresses, and with the views to look out on it was a perfect setting.
We then went for a cycle (we felt we needed some exercise after all the rich food) and it was such a change to be cycling along the farm roads without the hustle and bustle of city life. We got back just in time before it started raining and relaxed for the rest of the afternoon looking out at the beautiful views and prepared for our last dinner at Granny Mouse (sadly).
Because it was our last night, we decided to try Fine Dining and climbed up the beautiful wooden stairs to the Eaves Fine Dining restaurant. This restaurant is above the wine cellar (Yes, Granny Mouse has their own well stocked wine cellar!)
We were very impressed with the staff as they went out of their way to please. We had amazing starters and followed these with our mains, and yes, I will tell you yet again what we ordered! I had lamb loin and my husband had the duck and of course it was all absolutely delicious. We finished off the meal with a berry dessert which was also out of this world, created by the talented culinary chef.
The next day we had the spectacular buffet breakfast again, but then had to say our sad goodbyes to the staff and management.
Granny Mouse is definitely a place at the top of my list that I would love to stay at again.
I forgot to mention that there is an amazing spa that I would love to go to next time when we stay a bit longer and is the perfect setting in which to completely destress.
Thank you to Sean, the manager, and the rest of the team at Granny Mouse who made our visit a time to remember.
Hopefully, we will be coming back again soon – very soon!”
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Website: www.grannymouse.co.za
Facebook: www.facebook.com/grannymousecountryhouseandspa
Twitter: www.twitter.com/GrannyMouseSA
Instagram: www.instagram.com/granny_mouse_country_house
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
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