Here are ten places to stay in winter snowfall regions in South Africa, all with welcoming fireplaces to gather around after a cold day of hiking and playing in the snow.
1. Goatherds House, Matroosberg
Situated at the foot of the Matroosberg Mountain, the cottage is over 100 years old and completely secluded, leaving you to enjoy the undisturbed snow in peace. The house is rustic with no electricity, yet has the modern luxuries of a hot water shower, flush toilet, gas fridge and hotplate.
Rates: R1 000 a night for the six-sleeper
2. de Pakhuys, Cederberg
Four renovated farm cottages are on offer at de Pakhuys, situated on the de Pakhuys Farm in the Agter-Pakhuis Valley in the rock-strewn area of the Cederberg. All of the cottages have fully-equipped kitchens and access to WiFi. Walking trails and access to rock climbing areas are within walking distance of the farm. The owners are on hand to give advice on where to go and what to do in the area.
Rates: From R160 a person
3. Champagne Cottages, Cathedral Peak
The resort is situated next to the Bell Park Dam in the magnificent Central Drakensberg, part of the Okhahlamba region and one of South Africa’s World Heritage sites. There is a choice of six thatched cottages, which all have a kitchen, lounge area and fireplace for warming up next to.
Rates: From R200 a person
4. Basotho Cultural Village Rest Camp, Golden Gate National Park
The camp is modelled on an 18th century Basotho Village. Accommodation is provided in two-to-four sleeper rondawels that wrap around to form a ‘kraal’ with a central braai area. As well as being able to take in the breathtaking scenery, you will also be given insight into traditional Basotho culture.
Rates: From R300 a person
5. Misty Mountain, Long Tom Pass
Made up of 27 chalet units, Misty Mountain offers self-catering accommodation on the Long Tom Pass. The chalets sleep between two and six people. Spend a wintry weekend relaxing in front of the fire, eating at the restaurant or exploring the pass.
Rates: From R535 a person, including breakfast
6. Sani Lodge Backpackers, Sani Pass
A range of accommodation is on offer at the Sani Lodge Backpackers, including dormitories, standard rooms, two-sleeper rondavels, and four- and five-sleeper self-catering cottages. Meet other travellers in the common room with its roaring log fire.
Rates: From R110 a person
7. Eagles’ Rock Mountain Retreat, Underberg
Situated on a mountain plateau overlooking the Umzimkulu River and surrounding farmlands, the retreat is made up of six freestanding cottages, which can accommodate between two and ten people. Lammergeier Log Chalet and Jackal Buzzard Cottage provide amazing 360° views.
Rates: From R230 a person
8. Pennygum Country Cottages, Underberg
The four garden cottages have great views of the mountains and are perfect for families or groups of friends (the Family Cottage sleeps ten). Each cottage has a DVD player and fireplace for wintry evenings in.
Rates: From R250 a person
9. Umzikulu River Lodge, Southern Drakensberg
The lodge is located on one of the bends of the Umzimkulu River in the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, a World Heritage Site. The location is beautiful, with steep-sided river valleys and rocky gorges. There are eight spacious units to choose from, all close to the river bank. The twelve-sleeper Giant Log Cabin is perfect for a family or big group.
Rates: From R210 a person
10. Antbear Guest House, Giants Castle, Drakensberg
This thatched white-washed guest house offers three accommodation options – an en suite double room, a suite, or (if you feel like something out of the ordinary) a luxury cave. The guest house is situated on a natural platform in the foothills of the Drakensberg mountains, overlooking the Bushmans River and Giants Castle.
Rates: From R830 a person, including dinner and breakfast
