Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Spoil the leading lady in your life with a Mother’s Day retreat
MOTHER’S Day is just a few weeks away and what better way to spoil your mom than to whisk her away?
After all, May 12 is not enough to show love and appreciation for your mother who wiped your tears and cheered you on. And this is your chance to spoil her and to create long-lasting memories.
If you would like to gift your mother with more than just a present, here are some getaway ideas. From scenic locations to spa and nature retreats and delicious meals, there is something to suit all tastes.
Makakatana Bay Lodge
If you are looking to escape into the heart of KwaZulu-Natal this Mother’s Day and explore the great wilderness, this privately owned and managed safari lodge within the western shores of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park could be ideal.
Makakatana Bay Lodge features luxurious four-star accommodation and is perfect for nature lovers.
The lodge offers world-class safari itineraries where you can get up close and personal with a variety of wildlife.
This retreat allows you to explore the tranquillity of pristine, unspoiled and uninhabited wildlife beaches, vast wetlands and a scenic boat cruise.
A suite at Makakatana Bay Lodge costs around R10 322 per night.
Hawksmoor House
This luxurious country retreat in Stellenbosch, about 45 minutes from Cape Town, is the perfect place to unwind and get some rest.
Situated in the renowned Cape Winelands region, Hawksmoor House provides an indulgent, farm-style experience, including charming and spacious accommodation and captivating sceneries. It is home to horses, cows, porcupines, hawks, pelicans and other wildlife.
There are myriad activities, including connoisseur cooking classes, wine pairing dinners, gin and jazz picnics on the historic lawns and open-air movie nights under the starry skies.
The price for a room at Hawksmoor House for two people sharing costs around R1 800 per night.
Blyde River Canyon Lodge
Give your mom the gift of relaxation at The Blyde River Canyon Lodge, which offers guests a unique African bush experience.
This retreat is located on a botanical reserve, alongside the sparkling waters of the serene Blyde River and is sheltered by the majestic Drakensberg Mountains.
You can enjoy an abundance of fauna and flora. It is situated close to the Blyde River Canyon, the world’s third largest canyon and, while there, take a trip to the God’s Window, a famous natural landmark found along the Panorama Route that offers a magnificent viewpoint over the canyon.
Here, the cliffs drop away to an astonishing 700m to 900m gorge filled with trees, shrubs, and wildlife.
God’s Window also offers spectacular views across the lowveld and on a clear day, you’ll be able to see across the famous Kruger National Park towards the Lebombo Mountains in the distance.
A room for two people per night costs around R2 950.
Hacklewood Hill Country House
This Victorian Manor House is situated near the Port Elizabeth oceanside.
And while it might be too chilly to take a splash in the ocean, you can some quality time with loved ones at this beach house which is big enough to fit the whole family.
This exclusive and luxury accommodation is nestled in a lush English garden setting in Walmer. It was built in 1898 and is one of the few remaining Victorian Manor Houses in the city.
The house has eight luxury en-suite rooms. Enjoy your time here, sitting on the veranda which overlooks a sparkling swimming pool. You can also take a stroll in the beautiful garden with its abundant birdlife which calls the grounds of Hacklewood home.
To truly experience Hacklewood Hill Country House at the height of its Victorian glory, it is recommended that guests dine at the house’s five-star restaurant which serves some of the finest cuisines.
A room at the Hacklewood Hill Country House costs around R1780 per night.
Irene Country Lodge
If you are in Joburg and looking for a Mother’s Day retreat, this five-star accommodation in Centurion could be perfect for you and your family.
The site offers an authentic farm experience, while also offering a touch of elegance and luxury.
It is considered a haven of peace and tranquillity in the city where you can live out your countryside dreams.
The lodge is home to the Camdeboo Day Spa which offers a wide range of beauty and wellness treatments.
And on Sunday, the lodge will host a Mother’s Day buffet lunch at its Meadow Green Restaurant. This fine dining experience is set to include delicious food and great service that the lodge has become renowned for.
A room at the Irene Country Lodge costs around R2 640 per night.