HOT SPOTS
From beach to bush – four superb stays for your next break
CORAL TREE COLONY Southbroom, KwaZulu-Natal
Natural ecology is an important part of Southbroom’s DNA and, thanks to its residents, is why the town hasn’t succumbed to the high-rise apartment culture of its South Coast neighbours. Even the sprawling 18-hole golf course at its centre seems, surprisingly, a natural fit in this pretty pocket of green. Just behind the twelfth hole you’ll find Coral Tree Colony – a purpose-built B&B with just enough of a colonial throwback for it not to feel contrived. There’s a central lounge with wicker chairs and polished wooden floors, long verandas and the six cosy rooms (with king-size or twin beds) all look out over the subtropical course and the ocean beyond. The atmosphere is relaxed – guests have access to the kitchen – but the table settings and finishing touches have a real restaurant-quality feel. It’s quiet, homely and pet friendly – a good option for those stopping by on a coastal road trip, or settling in for a week of seclusion from the rest of the South Coast crowds. RATES From R775 pp sharing B&B. CONTACT 039-316-6676, thecoraltree.com – TYSON JOPSON
VIRGINIA FARM Near Eston, KZN Midlands
The road to Virginia Farm passes Tala Game Reserve and rural farmland, giving an introduction to this area’s beauty. However, it doesn’t prepare you for the striking gorge that unfolds as you enter this historic working sugar-cane farm, set in a conservancy area and owned by the super-hospitable Pete and Lou Stainbank. It’s great for birders, mountain bikers and hikers, with 80 kilometres of trail snaking through cane fields, dipping through aloe-clad mountain folds and hugging the valley sides. The land is pristine and safe; guests are encouraged to explore by themselves (even women) or in groups, and the well-maintained facilities are spotless. For day visitors (entry R45 pp) there are braai and rest areas, hot showers and an honesty-system snack bar. The self-catering Cottage (sleeps six) makes for a homely group getaway with views over the pool and farm, while the converted farm Shed (sleeps seven) is relaxed and comfortable. RATES From R260 pp (R520 minimum). CONTACT 031-781-1042, virginiafarm.co.za – TEAGAN CUNNIFFE
WITS RURAL FACILITY Near Kruger Park, Mpumalanga
Wits University refers to its 350-hectare bushveld estate as a ‘rural campus’, with a laboratory, seminar and conference facilities, swimming pool, restaurant and four accommodation clusters. Students get first dibs but if it’s available, the recently built Bushcamp is a neat option for anyone wanting an affordable self- catering base for self- drive trips into Kruger, or to avail themselves of guided soirées into Kapama or Manyeleti (arranged privately). Bushcamp comprises two parallel wings, each with four compact, adjoining en-suite studio units that can be booked individually. Better still, take all eight and you’ve got a great space for a group of 16 sharing the large communal firepit and open-air dining room. Flanked by private game reserves, populated with free-roaming game and 30 kilometres from Orpen Gate, this is one of the best bargains you’ll find in the bush. RATES From R522 pp sharing. CONTACT 015-793-7508, wits.ac.za/campuslife/arts-and-culture/wits-rural-facility – PIPPA DE BRUYN
FLY ME TO THE MOON Garden Route, Western Cape
Fly Me To The Moon is the newest edition to Moon Shine on Whiskey Creek’s lovingly constructed forest cabins, in beautiful indigenous forest 10 minutes from Plettenberg Bay. When owners Sue and Albert arrived 18 years ago, there were no buildings. Albert set to work, first on their own home, then on a growing selection of secluded cabins. Each is unique, an expression of Albert’s ever-increasing confidence and craftsmanship, and this latest couples’ retreat is his most impressive to date. Colourful mosaics adorn the bathroom and outside shower, and hand-picked timber frames the sliding windows. A stash of wood and charcoal is provided for the braai and fireplace, and there’s a neat kitchenette. What there isn’t is cell reception – just free Wi-Fi, if you must, in the purpose-built cabin up the hill. Have a dip in the swimming pool on your way back, or walk down to Whiskey Creek itself where there’s a waterfall and a huge, icy rock pool to swim in. RATES From R690 for two sharing. CONTACT 072-200-6656, whiskeycreek.co.za – CHRIS DAVIES
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