Umlilo Lodge
Umlilo Lodge is a unique, enchanting, family-managed, owned guest house perfectly located in St Lucia, KwaZulu Natal province. Come on inside through the gates and experience its magic.
Owners Elphia and Lourens have spent 16 years lovingly designing and building a beautifully laid out and wonderful escape for their guests to enjoy. Step inside and be greeted by an almost life-sized hippo. Pass by a massive majestic fig tree that wraps itself around the reception area into your slice of paradise. Guests liken the garden to arriving in Bali or a tropical forest, and the sense of calm that it offers you is inescapable. Wander past Koi Ponds and streams, trickling water features, taking in all the delightful locally sourced animal carvings scattered throughout the property on the wooden walkways leading to your rooms.
Our Accommodation
Boasting 13 en-suite rooms, four of which are wheelchair-friendly, there is something for everyone's needs.
Our family unit with its separate bedrooms is a firm favourite. As is our "Pool" room, where you can step out the door into the sparkling pool.
Our spacious rooms (our smallest room is the same size as most of the other guesthouses’ luxury rooms), featured luggage racks big enough for all your suitcases, family-sized bathrooms with plenty of shelf space for all your necessities, bar fridges, and of course extremely comfortable beds. All the photography in the rooms has been done by the owners and they have supported the local artists with the rest of the decorations. Everything fits together and works to ensure you can just sit back and relax.
Our Amenities & Services
Start your day off with a delicious Continental or hot English breakfast in one of our atrium-like dining rooms (glass-surrounded areas making you feel like you are eating outdoors in a lush forest).
End off an adventure-filled day with a tasty homemade traditional dinner dish. Spend some time relaxing by the pool or in the cool spacious lounge, curled up with one of the good books on offer, or simply sit back and enjoy a drink from the honesty bar.
With Wi-Fi, DSTV in the lounge area, and Netflix in the rooms, solar energy and a generator to ensure that load shedding does not make any impact on your stay, an on-site gift shop to spoil yourself and find that ideal gift to take home, quiet nooks and crannies surrounded by trees and wonderful hosts that are there to assist you with planning your days and making sure your stay is perfect, Umlilo is a little gem that must be experienced.
Lourens has been known to go and relocate a tree frog for you in the middle of the night if it is proving to be too noisy. Even the local mongoose family chooses Umlilo as their destination of choice. For many years they have burrowed under the welcome deck and raised countless babies in this safe tranquil and welcoming environment. You simply have to come and experience it for yourself.
Under Oaks
The accommodation at our established, family-owned Under Oaks wine estate in the picturesque Cape Winelands is situated just a couple of kilometres away from the city centre of Paarl.
Our working wine farm is steeped deep in South African history dating back to 1695, including the historic cellar that has been renovated in 2014. Visit our tasting room to experience wine tastings and pairings. The first vintage of Under Oaks wine was bottled in 2001.
Our Accommodation
The country house accommodation at Under Oaks is nothing short of uninterrupted tranquility. Situated between the vineyards, our air-conditioned vineyard suites are stylishly designed as well as individually decorated and offer many preferred modern day amenities to assure complete luxury. Most of these eight spacious en-suite rooms feature a private patio with breathtaking views of the farm dam with striking mountains beyond and the Boland valley.
A small saltwater pool gives you the opportunity to cool down on warm summer days. Soak up the sun whilst enjoying clean, fresh air and spectacular views.
And of course the food and service at our on-site pizzeria are simply wonderful.
Our goal is to exceed our guest’s expectations and immense attention is given to the experiences we offer you at Under Oaks.
Utshwayelo Kosi Mouth Lodge & Camp
Our off-grid Utshwayelo Kosi Mouth Lodge & Camp nestles in the most north-eastern corner of South Africa and offers you superb Kosi Bay accommodation. It is situated just a stone’s throw from the pristine beach, where the blue waters of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park World Heritage Site flow into the Indian Ocean at the mouth of the Kosi Bay estuary system near the Mozambique border. Come and experience life with us in paradise!
Our Accommodation
From en-suite luxury tents to en-suite rustic chalets, tented camps and private campsites, we provide the kind of camping or self-catering accommodation you are looking for - and it is easily accessible by car.
After an activity filled day, unwind in the evening under the magnificent ancient Umdoni trees next to the pool or enjoy a sundowner at the Fishtrap bar whilst planning your adventure for the next day.
Acivities
Explore the natural beauty of this pristine location. Wade among the iconic traditional Tsonga fish traps from which the lodge takes its name, snorkel in the estuary teeming with tropical fish, go hippo spotting on a scenic boat trip on the lakes or hike through the unspoiled bush. Whether it's boating, canoeing or bird watching, fishing or snorkelling, dune hiking or biking, you're spoiled for choice in this magnificent area of South Africa that's been described as a “wonderful aquarium and the most gorgeous aviary”.
Valley Bushveld Country Lodge
Located near Addo Elephant National Park, our owner managed, 4 star safari-style Valley Bushveld Country Lodge and child-friendly Bed & Breakfast overlooks a valley and guarantees you breathtaking vistas and sunsets as well as watching wild antelopes which roam all around the lodge.
Our lodge is situated 53 kilometres northwest of Gqeberha on the banks of the Coegas River in a malaria-free private game reserve with over 17 kinds of wild animals and antilopes. The main R75 highway which connects Addo, Kirkwood and Graaff-Reinet is just 200 meters away from the lodge.
Our Accommodation
You will be cordially welcomed into this particular sanctuary of serenity and calm when you arrive. If you look far enough into the valley, you'll see a little river, a natural rock wall and an undisturbed ecosystem with its own animals. The tranquility, stunning views, superb traditional cuisine and unique story telling as well as the tastefully decorated en-suite rooms allow you to completely unwind.
Our en-suite guest rooms include one double room with a king-size bed, one twin room, one family room with two king-size beds, two deluxe double rooms with one king-size bed and a single bed as well as one executive suite with two king-size beds. Except for the family room and the executive suite, which each can sleep four people, each guest room sleeps two people. The deluxe double room can accommodate three people. Each room is surrounded by a veranda, has its own private entrance and is outfitted with high-end linens and furnishings. Watch the sun set from this peaceful vantage point and listen to the bush come to life at night.
In the summer, a great cool South African beer out on the patio-deck completes a perfect day and during colder winter evenings, there is always a fire going in the large fireplace of the lounge where guests may enjoy the story tellings.
Valley Bushveld Country Lodge's cuisine is of exceptional quality, offering a variety of delicious authentic South African specialities and serving true organic foods. In the mornings, head to the dining room for a delectable South African breakfast. Dinners are provided upon request and must be reserved ahead of time. The dining room features an adjoining bar where you can forget about the day's dust and enjoy South Africa's finest export wines as well as local coffees, beers, spirits and liqueurs.
Activities
From an open safari vehicle on a guided tour, you can see and have close encounters with giraffes, zebras, blue wildebeest, nyalas and other wildlife. Beautiful views and a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with fantastic photo possibilities await! You are also welcome to go on a self-drive safari or explore our surroundings on hiking trails.
Use our country lodge as a base camp from which to venture out to various destinations each day. Then return in the evening for a delicious dinner with us, such as a traditional South African Braai (barbecue) or Bobotie, and discuss your adventures with your hosts and fellow guests.
Addo Elephant National Park, a cheetah breeding farm and the area's oldest private lion game reserve are all within easy driving distance.
Villas do Indico Ocean Resort
Come and relax at our child-friendly Villas do Indico Ocean Resort in Vilanculos where the waters of the Indian Ocean meet Inhambanes most illustrious seaside heaven.
Located 10km north of Vilanculos village, our eco resort nestles on the white sands of the Bazaruto Archipelago, a protected marine park. Enjoy the sea breeze at Villas do Indico and the magnificent panoramic views as well as our pristine white beaches lopped by turquoise waters, impressive reefs and amazing marine life.
Our Accommodation
We offer you four accommodation options. Whether you stay in one of our deluxe suites, in an expedition bungalow, at the House on the Hill for self-catering which is ideal for a family with children, or on our campsite with stands for tents and caravans, we offer you personalized service and a place where you can bury your toes in the sand and fill your days with adventure.
Elegantly decorated in European style with elements of African cultural influence, our 10 well appointed guest suites exude a blend of traditional Mozambican hospitality with modern comforts, such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning and private terraces, amongst others. They are surrounded by tropical gardens and distributed along the seafront with stunning views of the Bazaruto archipelago. You can choose whether you would like to enjoy your breakfast on the terrace of your room or served in our on-site restaurant.
Activities
Unwind in our swimming pool, enjoy a relaxing massage on the beach or a drink from our bar and visit our excellent restaurant after a day of activitiessuch as scuba diving, snorkelling, wind surfing and swimming in the warm Indian Ocean, horse riding on the beach, seeing local crafts or exploring the Bazaruto Archipelago on a dhow sailing safari.
Vingerklip Lodge
A place of mystery, wind-sculpted rocks and far horizons! Our marvellous Vingerklip Lodge nestles in a timeless valley on the 3000 ha Farm Bertram that is surrounded by a game fence helping us to protect and preserve the wildlife.
One of the most dramatic rock formations in Namibia is the 35m high pillar of rock, the Vingerklip or Finger of Stone, which is visible from the lodge and stands proudly above this valley in the ancient landscape known as the Ugab terraces.
Our Accommodation
Our child-friendly Vingerklip Lodge offers 12 thatched double unit bungalows comprising 24 en-suite rooms which are individually furnished and equipped to satisfy all travellers' requirements. Each air-conditioned unit has a private terrace to complete the atmosphere of relaxation and tranquillity. Eight of the units offer loft accommodation for two children each.
Our Facilities
Our 1600 ha private reserve has three waterholes in various locations around the lodge with the main waterhole being flood lit at night. Various types of wild animals, including giraffes, eland antelopes, zebras, kudus, oryx, springboks, impalas, warthogs, baboons and steenboks, frequently visit the waterholes and are also often spotted when following the walking trails.
On top of the Plateau Mountain, fine wines and refreshing, locally brewed beer is served at our restaurant, complimenting our gourmet cuisine and buffet in the spacious dining area. A sheltered sundowner veranda offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the unmatched splendour of a Namibian sunset.
Our Vingerklip Lodge also offers two swimming pools where you can spend lazy afternoons. For those who prefer a more luxurious and warmer form of relaxation, the Jacuzzi is open to guests at their convenience.
Waterkloof Guesthouse
Holidays on a South African farm. Situated only a few kilometers from the Atlantic Ocean, Waterkloof is the longest established guest house in the Witsand area of the Overberg region and located on a working farm with ostriches amongst others. Your hosts, Christine and Hannes, invite you to come and experience their warm breed of hospitality and charming homestead as well as to enjoy their mouth watering, local cuisine.
The Accommodation
The main house contains various family heirlooms. The interior speaks of days gone by mixed with a unique artistic feeling. Guests can indulge in the luxury of ostrich leather chairs and comfortable couches while studying the hand painted panels on the walls of one of the living rooms.
This room invites the sunlight and garden into the interior via a charming bay window. It is here, at the indoor fireplace where Hannes creates his well known barbecues during the colder winter months.
The communal TV lounge has satellite programmes and provides entertainment for the children while the parents relax with a glass of one of the famous Breede River Valley wines that Hannes stocks in his cellar. The cozy Yellowwood fireplace is the main focal point of the guest lounge during winter. Breakfast and dinner are served in the dining area of this room.
During the hot summer months Christine serves her dinners on the patio next to the pool. The swimming pool area invites the tired traveller to relax with a book or just to enjoy the beautiful surrounding scenery. A well equipped barbeque facility makes it ideal for outdoor dining.
The Guest Rooms
The guest house has four separate en-suite guest bedrooms, all with tea trays and private entrances. The rooms are decorated in the same style as the house and contain valuable antique furniture as well as art collections. The four rooms can also be divided into two separate units with two rooms and a connecting door - ideal for a couple with children.
Enjoy in summer the large, daily serviced rooms which are comfortably cool during the heat of the day and are overlooking the secluded garden with a number of bird species. During winter, we offer cozy down duvets and luxurious mohair and electrical blankets to keep you warm.
The Farm & Activities
Waterkloof is arguably one of the finest commercial farms in the Heidelberg district and has been in the family for seven generations. The Uys-family has its roots in Belgium ( West Flaandere) from where they immigrated to South Africa in 1704 via Northern Germany. This commercial farm boasts a wide diversity of agricultural activities commonly found in the area. The farm boosts about 2200 Merino sheep, 85 cattle including Nguni and Boran (indigenous cattle), but it is the 2500 ostriches that take the limelight.
All ostriches at Waterkloof are free-ranging birds in natural surroundings. Guests are invited to accompany Hannes around the farm on a guided tour. A visit to the ostrich breeder camp with 325 breeding birds is an exciting experience. Guests have the opportunity to help collect the eggs from the nests under supervision of Hannes or his sons. Hannes’ shadow Josie, the much beloved and charming Boarder Collie, will join you on this journey. Other farming activities include 1000 hectares of cash crops, mainly comprising Wheat, Barley and Canola (rape seed). While travelling on the farm you will often see , Grysbok, Duikers, Steenbok and Vaal Reeboks as well as Blue Cranes, South Africa’s national bird. Various rare and uncommon birds are also to be observed.
Waterkloof has very unique Renosterbos Fynbos on the farm. Hannes preserved an area of the original Fynbos which gets visited each year by a team from Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens to do some research on new and rare plant species.
Welgekozen Country Lodge
Set on an 8 acre estate near the historic town of Piet Retief, officially eMkhondo, Welgekozen Country Lodge is a traditional Cape Dutch style property and a quiet country guesthouse in a park-like garden, with a swimming pool and lots of tall oak trees, of which some are over 60 years old.
This beautiful accommodation establishment has an ambience of tranquillity in its country surroundings and can accommodate a variety of tastes. The house was built by the son of Generaal Kemp, a Boer war general.
With the central location, close to the border with eSwatini, it offers you the ideal stop over on your journey from Kruger National Park or Johannesburg to Durban on KwaZulu-Natal's south coast and back.
The ambiance, decor, cleanliness and friendly service will ensure your stay is a memorable one. We speak English, Afrikaans and Dutch.
Zanzibar for You
Our company manages a group of preferred family hotels and private villas on the island with years of experience in the hospitality business with the view to provide personalized and impeccable services and vacation of a difference.
What we believe is: Your vacation and journey begins with the right choice you make on the type of accommodation. From there onwards, you can relax and embrace yourself for the voyage of a lifetime.
Zanzibar for you is born for those travellers who do not like all-inclusive package tours, crowded resorts but who want their holiday to be also an emotional experience to live in the total relax of a still untouched area.
ZANZIBAR FOR YOU is a choice, a philosophy of life, a way of being...it's your dream in your heaven...
