Accomodation

REVIEW: Hartford House

Published

5 years ago

25 March 2020

Shelley

When I mentioned I was going to be visiting the Hartford House, I was met with “ooooh’s” and “aaaaaah’s.” Clearly Hartford had set high standards already judging by the responses.

So of course, you can imagine my excitement leading up to our staycation in Mooi River.

But first, let’s dive into a bit about its history…
Hartford’s beauty was discovered by the Moor family almost 150 years ago, when they came by its vacant landscape in the early 1870s. Home to the family of John and Sir Frederick Moor, the last prime minister of old Natal, the property is now part of the greater Summerhill estate, former domain of Colonel Richards, a senator in the first Union government.

My husband, Nick and I left Umhlanga and set off towards Hartford House. Only a 1 hour & 50 minute drive and we were in paradise.

Driving through the gates of Hartford, we were greeted with herds of horses and their young, scattered across the fields. I knew then and there that we were going to have an incredibly special experience.

Arriving at reception, we were offered a welcome drink before being escorted to our room. Our room was the Moor Suite 1, named after the founders of Hartford House. We felt as if we had an entire apartment all to ourselves! With two bathrooms and an outside private garden… what more could you ask for?

This suite has accommodated the last Prime Minister of the Colony, Sir Frederick Moor, the first Prime Minister of the Union, General Botha, and the former British Prime Minister, Sir Winston Churchill.

Dinner was to be at 7pm. We had a courteous knock on our door from a staff member around 6:30pm to remind us, leaving me speechless at how thoughtful the staff were.

We walked into the dining area and were shown to our sweet candle-lit table for two, perfectly decorated with fresh lilies. A 4-course menu was presented to us to which we quickly glanced at.

Aa we ordered a bottle of champers from our lovely waitress, we met the head chef, Matthew Armbruster who promptly introduced himself before running through the menu in full detail.

We kicked off our dinner with artisan breads and snacks from the kitchen before tucking into our first course, the kudu carpaccio paired with biltong, picked red onion, charred grapes and cured egg yolk. It sounds strange, but this combination was nothing like we’ve ever had before.

Shortly afterwards, we were presented with a pork and scallop dish, complete with sweetcorn, summer squash and col’tempo chorizo. Once we had wolfed down this, we had a short break before commencing, chatting over our glass of wine.

The escort lamb was served next complete with summer peas, kiwi, radish and baby onions. Soft and tender, this was my hubby’s favourite!

We then ended off our meal with a Flowers of Hartford House for dessert which included chamomile, lavender, lemon verbena and rose.

After the best meal(s) and dining experience we’ve ever had, all thanks to Chef Matthew Armbruster, his culinary team & the restaurant team, we headed back to our castle – I mean, our room for a much needed good night’s sleep.

But not before being surprised by a scatter of rose petals around the bed and in the bathtub! Hartford House’s housekeeping staff had attended to our room while we were dining. Such a thoughtful touch to our already incredible experience. I decided to trade in my normal everyday shower routine for a bath in their marble bathtub. I was in heaven.

Saturday morning rolled in and we were up. We took a short walk down the passageway to the dining area for our breakfast. Seated at our table, our breakfast orders were taken down and we indulged in a good cup of coffee, (or two.)

The weather was somewhat moody and cloudy, with a sprinkle of rain. That didn’t put a dampener on our plans, however. We decided to make use of Hartford’s bicycles to tour around the farm. Returning back from our cycle, we noticed hundreds of beautiful brightly coloured orange birds resting in the reeds. We stopped and watched in awe. Truly a remarkable sight!

We headed back to our accommodation to change out of our cycling gear and slipped into something much more comfortable, before taking a walk down to the lake.

At the lake, we decided to try our hand at canoeing, something we rarely get the opportunity to do back home. After a ‘wobbly’ start, we paddled off to the middle of the lake. With the sounds of birds chirping – it was somewhat both peaceful and exhilarating.

Midday came and our tummies were rumbling. We used this as an opportunity to explore the surrounding area of Hartford House. Just down the road from Hartford, is a cute little town of Mooi River.

After our mini adventure, we felt homesick for Hartford House and made our way back. We had a little afternoon snooze in our giant king-sized bed before getting dressed for the traditional zulu dancing show.

We were offered drinks by the friendly waiters and escorted into the garden in front of Hartford House. An array of chairs were laid out for us to sit. With a drink in our hands, the show kicked off and we were treated to a spectacular performance from zulu dancers that were from a local township.

Afterwards, we dined in style, only this time in our own private room! Oblivious to the fact that my top matched the curtains, I loved the experience. It felt like a proper date, and just what we needed.

Chef Matthew Armbruster was incredibly attentive and accommodating during the entire dining experience, personally serving some of the dishes himself. It was wonderful being able to interact with the chef while dining.

Hartford House is definitely a unique experience and something to be considered for your next weekend away.

We were thoroughly impressed by the attentive staff, the housekeeping ladies and the waiters. Their attention to every detail really blew us away and added something extra to an already special experience.

Visit www.hartfordhouse.co.za to book your next stay.

———————–

Twice voted “Best South African Restaurant” in the Visa/House & Leisure Awards.

Voted Best Boutique Hotel in the Travel category of the “Top Billing Momentum
Lifestyle Awards”.
Hartford House was nominated by the travel trade in South Africa and the United Kingdom as one of a select group of Gold Achiever Award Winners in the AA Travel Guides Accommodation Awards programme alongside the leading establishments in the nation.
Voted by Fair Lady as the No 1 Romantic rendezvous.
Several times ranked in the top two Fine Country Estates category at Indaba, South Africa’s premier international travel show.
Voted by Femina magazine among the top special wedding destinations countrywide.
Topcar magazine’s preferred destination.
Described by Marie Claire magazine as one of Africa’s most memorable experiences.
Rated by Cosmopolitan magazine as South Africa’s leading romantic destination.

In its only assessment in recent years, American Express counted Hartford House among its Top Five Luxury Lodges in its Southern African Classic Collection.

Author: Shelley

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Accomodation

Review: A Luxurious Escape at Qambathi Mountain Lodge

Published

2 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

2 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.