Sowetan

View of lake under shadows of magical Drakensber­g

Where purity of nature meets luxury

- By Lesley Mofokeng ■

There is something magical and enchanting about the Drakensber­g mountains.

Perhaps it’s the snow-capped mountains or their rugged beauty that captures the eye. But one thing for sure is that the soul of South Africa can be found in this mountain range.

If Europe prides itself on the majesty of the Alps, we have the Drakensber­g.

Nestled in the Cathkin Peak valley at the foot of the mountains in KwaZulu-Natal is Drakensber­g Sun - not too far from the world famous Drakensber­g Boys Choir.

After a long four-and-a-half hours meandering drive from Johannesbu­rg to Cathkin Peak, the warm luxury that awaited us at the hotel was like discoverin­g Shangri-La.

The beautifull­y manicured green lawn and trimmed shrubs transport you to an imaginary fairy land.

On a particular­ly cold night, the smell of wood and the ambience of the dimly lit reception says “welcome to home away from home”.

I did not waste time to sample the offerings on the menu, and boy, did the buffet impress.

The Lakeview restaurant has recently undergone a R3.7million revamp.

The talented chefs whipped up one of the tastiest lamb curries I’ve had in a while, and the freshly caught local trout gets grilled in your presence.

Their breakfast is also varied and caters for most palates.

There’s not much to write home about the rooms. They maintain that old school feel but have basic modern amenities you’d expect at a three or four-star hotel.

The pool is a scene of relaxation and partying with music booming from the speakers.

The family friendly facilities allow for a lazy, relaxed holiday with treatments at the spa accompanie­d with the best refreshing homemade drinks, or a lazy cruise on the private lake for sundowners. There are many options for walks and strolls too.

For energy bunnies, you can go next door for canopy tours that will have you swinging and weaving through the forest vegetation of the Drakensber­g. Then comes the most steep hiking trail you can imagine.

Mofokeng was hosted by Tsogo Sun

 ??  ?? New-look Lakeview restaurant is in the hands of highly talented chefs.
New-look Lakeview restaurant is in the hands of highly talented chefs.

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