Accomodation

Review: The View Boutique Hotel & Spa

Published

7 years ago

20 April 2018

mrjoelmagic

This exclusive, family run, Boutique Hotel with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean is set in the quiet coastal village of Amanzimtoti.

Guests are assured of 5 Star Graded service and attention to detail. Luxurious air-conditioned en-suite rooms are individually decorated with every modern comfort, for the discerning business and leisure traveller.

Indulge in the romantic honeymoon suite with private spa-bath, opening out onto lush tropical gardens & sparkling blue pools. Superb local cuisine is served with flair in our newly built restaurant, Giorgio’s, or dine alfresco under our magnificent African sky.

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Durbanite: The View Boutique Hotel & Spa – Pool

Upon arrival we headed to the reception where we were greeted by Chris and some truffles. Whilst our room was being prepared we tucked into the Complimentary Sugar Bar (Fun fact: I initially heard Complimentary Shooter Bar. Things could have taken a turn). We loaded up with delights from the Sugar Bar and headed to the balcony where it became clear how this Boutique Hotel got its name: the View was incredible. I would have been happy to sleep on the couches.

Shortly after taking in the surroundings we were shown the good life, the Grand Deluxe Room. A king size bed littered with rose petals, the comfiest gowns, slippers, bottled water and a snack platter with fancy cheeses, olives, pepper dews and fruit cocktail skewers. Oh, and did we mention the complimentary wine, chilled. The bathroom was kitted out with a tub, shower, all the accessories you could need (hair dryer too) and Charlotte Rhys soaps (smell great & is animal cruelty-free!). Needless to say we were blown away.

The View Boutique Hotel & Spa – Grand Deluxe Room

Our complimentary couples treatment was scheduled for 5pm and with time to kill we snacked, drank wine and hit the pools. Drink in had, sun shining, crystal clear, warm water and SpicyT by my side – I was in heaven.

The time arrived to head to the spa for our complimentary treatment, and boy was it amazing. It began with a 45 minute wind down in the hydro facilities ie. steam room, jacuzzi and/or floatation relaxation room (your choice how you spend your time). What followed was the most incredible back, shoulder, neck & head massage, by candlelight. We couldn’t thank our masseuses enough! The spa is also home to a gym for those wanting to get the endorphins flowing.

Good to know:
The steam room and jacuzzi are complimentary throughout your stay, you just need to call the spa & book.

The View Boutique Hotel & Spa – Spa

Back at the room, a candlelit bubble bath was next on the menu and the cherry on top. Feeling beyond relaxed, and super lazy, we just couldn’t bring ourselves to head down to Giorgio’s at the View for dinner, but with fomo being a real thing we did what any sane people would do: order room service. Before we knew it we were eating a Valentino Pizza (tomato base, mozzarella, prawns, cherry tomatoes, garlic and fresh herbs) in bed, drinking wine (again) watching Harry Potter – and life was good, really good. The pizza was rich and full of flavour.

Alarm set for 6am sunrise session, come 6am the sun was still asleep and so were we. I slept like a log, a very comfortable sleep indeed.

With our batteries charged we thought we’d enjoy our complimentary breakfast at Giorgio’s (rather than endure in room service again), a starter and a main, each. My salmon and cream cheese croissant was followed by The South African (egg, bacon, sausage, mushroom, cherry tomato and toast) and Jade had pancakes followed by Salmon and egg on an English Muffin (swapped from a croissant). The portions were generous, the food was scrumptious and the service impeccable. The gloomy morning was also a surprisingly nice touch.

The View Boutique Hotel & Spa – Giorgio’s

We sauntered back to our room, as full as ticks, and reluctantly packed up our belongings to head on home to Durban.

The service was flawless, well done and thank you for making our stay one to remember. What an awesome break from the busyness of life, and only 30 minutes from home The View is a must for your next staycation.

———–

BOOK YOUR NEXT STAY

Tel:
+27 (31) 903 1556

Fax:
+27 (31) 903 8820

Mobile:
+27 73 863 2786

Website:
https://www.hoteltheview.com/

Author: mrjoelmagic

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Accomodation

Review: A Luxurious Escape at Qambathi Mountain Lodge

Published

3 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

3 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.