Accomodation
The Gooderson Natal Spa Hot Springs Resort – Review
Our family of four was recently invited to spend 2 nights, dinner, bed and breakfast included at the Gooderson Natal Spa Hot Springs Resort located just outside of Paulpietersburg, Kwa-Zulu Natal.
Off we set, myself, my husband Barry and two kids, Reese (4 years old) and Ethan (18 months old). We were driving from Ballito, so the drive took us about three and a half hours through the rolling hills of Zululand. We packed lunch for the drive because there was nowhere to stop along the way for food or drinks. I think we passed one very small garage on the way, so filling up before you leave is probably a good idea! – The scenery on the way to Natal Spa is gorgeous though. Lots of goats and cows for the kids to look for along the way, too!
We arrived a little after 2pm as per check-in instructions. To be honest I wasn’t really sure what to expect, but the staff were incredibly helpful and enthusiastic right from the security guard at the gate to the reception staff and the waitrons. Nothing was too much to ask and everything was done with a smile!
We were offered help with our luggage which we gladly accepted and were shown to our family room. I was pleasantly surprised! I had expected a single open plan room (as I was told when I phoned beforehand) but instead we had two separate rooms with an interleading door and one bathroom to share.
The rooms were very spacious, clean and comfy! Ours had a queen sized bed with TV, DSTV, mini fridge, and tea and coffee facilities.
The kid’s room had two single beds, a TV and a cupboard. The view from the kid’s room was lovely, overlooking the main pool, bar area and smaller water slides. The bathroom had a bath only (no shower) but I actually prefer that for young kids. The hotel is showing its age and could do with some upgrades (which I was told are in the budget for this year) but in general it is cozy and comfortable.
Barry showing Reese how it’s done
The kids couldn’t wait to get onto the slides so we changed into our costumes and headed down to the pool. I stopped along the way to order some toasted sandwiches from the restaurant and took them down to the pool to eat. There’s a little kiosk shop that sells chips and cool drinks and a bar where drinks were ordered from to go with lunch. There’s a lot to keep the kids busy down at the pool area. What with trampolines, mini golf, jungle gyms, and lots of open space to just run around. There’s a really big super tube for bigger kids and adults which I was told is also due for upgrade this year and then the hot spring pools that are the main attraction for the resort. These are just lovely to laze around in and have added health benefits as well.
The resort has something for everyone with a wide range of activities on offer such as horse-riding, quad-biking, mountain biking, paintball, obstacle course, archery, fishing, wellness spa, table tennis, squash, pool, volleyball, and bird walks.
The next morning we unfortunately woke up to a very rainy day! Heading down to breakfast, we were a bit apprehensive about the food but we had no reason to be because the breakfast buffet was wonderful! There was loads on offer for a yummy breakfast. I can’t remember everything but some of the things included fresh fruit, yoghurt, cereal, tea, coffee, juice, bacon, sausage, eggs made to order right in front of you.
Disappointed with the rainy day, I headed to reception to ask them for advice on what to do with the kids to keep them busy and was told that they have organised activities from 10am – 3pm. Excellent! I was starting to think we would have to binge watch movies in our room all day. Reese and Barry headed down to the boulders bar at the pool for a Minute to Win It game! They met Sam who organized all the activities for the kids. He was fantastic with the kids and kept them entertained through all of the activities with her enthusiasm and bubbly personality!
The next activity was a movie from 11am – 1pm so instead of that, we decided to head into Paulpietersburg to get some goodies from the shops. Well… it’s a very small town with not much going on. It seems like the largest attraction in the area is the resort itself. We drove around trying to find a restaurant to have some lunch and couldn’t find anything suitable so stopped at the Spar on the way for some sweets and supplies for the next day. We eventually headed back to the resort where we ordered lunch from The Bistro restaurant. The menu was simple but the food was fresh and tasty.
The staff were really wonderful and the chef was happy to make my prego roll without prego sauce. The rest of the afternoon was taken up with arts, crafts and movies.
I have to show off some of the kids art #ProudMom
Sunday morning, we woke up to an overcast but NOT rainy day! Awesome! We scheduled some archery and went to go and have a look at the new foal that had been born 7 days before. Unfortunately we didn’t have time to try out any of the other activities. After another yummy breakfast, we headed off to our archery lesson. The instructor was very knowledgable and helpful. All of us had a go land lots of fun was had by all!
A surprise awaited us on our drive home in the form of a huge beautiful chameleon which we almost drove over while it was crossing the road! Luckily my hubby was able to avoid it and we stopped to show the kids who were over the moon at seeing one in real life!!
All in all we had a fun trip. I feel like we didn’t really get to experience everything that the resort had to offer because of the bad weather, but what we did experience was lovely! I would definitely recommend this as a family destination.
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
