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

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

For Durbanites, a trip to Cape Town is always enthralling. White-sand beaches, throngs of restaurants, and sea life sightings are just some of the things we look forward to when visiting our Mother City. Of course, the various accommodation on offer forms part of said hype – and can either make or break your experience!

Well, we’re here to tell you this: If you’re looking for a hotel that’s contemporary, comfy, central, quiet and not too costly, we’ve found the place for you. Not to mention its fascinating decor, great hospitality, and luxury charm that just wraps you up and keeps you snug throughout your entire stay.

The opulent Cape Milner building matches Cape Town’s Victorian aesthetic. But inside you’ll find a mix of art-deco, modern and African chic; much like the feel of modern Africa today.

As if wedged at the bottom of Table Mountain, the views from the rooms and lounges are spectacular. We particularly enjoyed dining out in the swanky Glass Lounge, where you can look up into the blue sky or night stars while you enjoy a hearty lamb shank below.

Our homely rooms overlooked the serene Milner Road, with its impressive avenues of trees. We were given complimentary macarons on arrival and enjoyed them with tea as we watched the rain pitter-patter on the tails of unbothered squirrels — how cute! The Milner Hotel really is a place you can enjoy come rain or shine.

The hotel was the absolute, perfect base from which to explore pretty much everything and anything. Just a few minutes drive away lies Bree and Kloof  – two favourites, Metropolitan streets for tourists and locals alike. Over the few days of our stay we visited many great spots, all within 5-10 minutes away.

We sank our teeth into cheesy pizza at the much-hyped “I love the dough” and tried out “Mochi Mochi” for dessert; we ordered fizzing and steaming cocktails from “Cause and Effect” at the V&A; and of course, we spent a fun-filled evening at the cheeky and illustrious “Beefcakes” in Green Point.

After each jam-packed day, coming home to our state-of-the-art bathtub and luxurious linen was the cherry on top. It fitted in perfectly with our diverse range of activities we had planned, and matched the entire style of our trip.

We didn’t want to leave!

And of course, we can’t wait to stay again…

To book your stay at the Cape Milner, contact

Tel: +27 11 516 4367
Email: res@extraordinary.co.za