Menu
Menu
Menu
You will take a flight to Durban with a stopover in Johannesburg. Upon arrival, you have the option of being picked up from the airport or picking up your rental car. Once you’re ready, your journey to your initial accommodation, the Thonga Beach Lodge, is situated a mere few meters away from the beach. His lodge provides a secluded retreat overlooking a tranquil bay on the Elephant Coast. It’s the perfect destination for a private beach getaway, featuring white sands and pristine blue waters in the KwaZulu-Natal region of South Africa. The approximate driving time to the lodge is 2.5 hours.
KWAZULU-NATAL’S NORTH COAST
The coast north of the Durban metropolitan area – between Ballito and the mouth of the Tugela River – is officially called the “North Coast”. The coast is also called “Dolphin Coast” because of the very numerous dolphins that cavort near the coast and follow the huge shoals of sardines. The north coast is lined with small seaside resorts with magnificent beaches. The most prominent are called Tongaat Beach, Ballito, Willard Beach, Shaka’s Rock, Salt Rock, Sheffield Beach, Umhlali, Blythedale and Zinkwazi Beach.
FOREST ROOM, FULL BOARD + ACTIVITIES
Thonga Beach Lodge is an enchanting retreat in iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a natural paradise under UNESCO World Heritage protection, with one of the greatest biodiversities in Africa. It is secluded on a beach with no other development 160 kilometres to the north and 90 kilometres to the south. A refuge in the wilderness not only for numerous animals and plants, but with only twelve environmentally friendly designed rooms also for a few people, to which you may soon belong.
The thatched-roof cabins combine modern comforts with authentic South African flair. Some offer a private plunge pool. Through wrap-around windows and from the balcony, your view sweeps across the indigenous forest and/or the Indian Ocean. Surrounded by the soothing sound of waves and the exotic sounds of nature and far away from any disturbing factors of civilization, you can find deep relaxation at Thonga Beach Lodge and follow your heartbeat instead of the ticking of a clock.
The atmosphere of this small, fine beach retreat is just inviting: Everything is designed lovingly, individually and close to nature, so that you can indulge in barefoot luxury without a care in the world. One of the hammocks scattered throughout the lodge, the sun decks on the beach, the daybeds at the two idyllically designed pools, the boma – a traditional fireplace typical of South Africa.
Culinary delights await you at the restaurant with outdoor terrace and bar, and heavenly spa experiences also await you: The spa treatments are inspired by the ocean and are sure to help you relax and renew your energy. The dreamlike landscape also invites you to many activities. From scuba diving and snorkelling, to hiking and boating, to day trips to Zulu country and the Elephant Coast, every day of your stay will be an exciting experience.
The time will come to bid farewell to the coast. Afterwards, you will drive for approximately two hours to reach Thanda Game Reserve, where you will begin your exciting safari experience!
THANDA GAME RESERVE
In Zulu, Thanda means “love” and that is exactly what happens when you visit Thanda Private Game Reserve: You fall in love with the lodge, the landscape and the friendly people. Covering some 6,800 hectares, Thanda Game Reserve is located about 23 kilometres north of Hluhluwe in northern KwaZulu-Natal, about 50 kilometres from the coast. The reserve is home to the “Big 5” as well as rare wild dogs and cheetahs, and a wide variety of mammals and birds. The safari area will be enlarged in cooperation with the Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini to a total of 16,000 hectares by probably mid-2009, making it one of the largest reserves in private hands.
BUSH SUITE, FULLY INCLUSIVE WITH DRINKS & SAFARIS
In the midst of 14,000 hectares of endless African expanse, the eponymous Thanda Safari Lodge is located in the Thanda Safari Private Game Reserve and invites you to a spectacular stay in South Africa’s KwaZulu Natal province. Opened back in 2004, the reserve has made a name for itself in South Africa’s up scale hospitality industry with Thanda Safari Lodge, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World. The unfenced Thanda Safari Lodge has won multiple awards as a “World Leading Luxury Lodge” – not only for its service, which leaves no wish unfulfilled, but also for its unparalleled commitment to sustainability. Go on exciting game drives and bush walks with private rangers to get up close to the Big Five.
Enjoy an authentic stay and experience the wilderness up close as elephants quench their thirst at the on-site waterhole. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and indulge in quality dining, a world-class spa with exclusive treatments and plenty of privacy in one of only nine villas with private pools. The family-friendly lodge also offers a varied program for younger guests and child-friendly excursions into the wilderness.
Stay at Thanda Safari Lodge in nine stand-alone suites whose interiors and rounded style are inspired by elements of the local Zulu culture. The villas all offer a private wooden deck complete with a heated plunge pool and separate living room, bedroom and fireplace. Enjoy the benefits of a free-standing bathtub and indoor and outdoor showers.
Other amenities include air conditioning, mosquito nets, a minibar and safe, as well as a telephone and hair-dryer. The suite with fireplace offers space for a romantic stay for two. At the private boma or the daybed in the outdoor area, you can enjoy the view of the sunset.
In the following part of your journey, you’ll take a domestic flight to Cape Town. Your route will involve returning your rental car at the Durban airport, then flying to Cape Town. Once you arrive, you have the option to collect a rental car and drive to your next hotel in Cape Town’s wine region. Alternatively, you can select a private transfer, which will take approximately 45 minutes to reach the wine region.
CAPE WINE REGION
The “Winelands” are also known as the “cradle of South African wine growing”. Between green fertile valleys, high mountains and beautiful pine and oak forests are the most famous wine-growing areas in South Africa. Discover along the wine routes the exclusive châteaus like Stellenbosch, Franschhoeck and Paarl. Enjoy excellent wines of the region and let your eyes wander over the picturesque landscape. It will definitely remain in your memory.
CLASSIC BEDROOM & BREAKFAST INCLUDED
Embodying the charm of historic Stellenbosch, the stately River Manor Boutique Hotel is housed in two adjacent manor houses on the banks of the Eerste River.
This intimate hotel offers a delightfully romantic setting that transports guests to a bygone era where time stood still. Inviting lounges, sweeping staircases, elegantly furnished rooms, and large terraces create the perfect atmosphere in which to relax.
These luxurious ground-floor rooms at Moedersloon House (Mother’s Reward) are spacious and modern with a classic undertone. Rooms feature a super king-size bed, private bathroom, TV, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, in-room safe, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Wake up to a delicious breakfast every morning. Our breakfast offerings include an extensive cold buffet with homemade breads. We also offer a selection of prepared meals that range from healthy to delicious. Please help yourself to our extensive cold buffet with homemade breads and choose one of the following dishes for your hot breakfast.
The hotel’s manicured gardens, cascading water features, sparkling swimming pools, fruit trees and flowering shrubs create a tranquil oasis in the heart of Stellenbosch. River Manor Boutique Hotel is within walking distance of dozens of trendy restaurants, art galleries and up scale boutiques. It’s also within easy reach of the Cape Winelands’ best wine farms.
You will depart from the wine region and proceed towards The Hoop Nature Reserve, your next destination. As you make your way to Lekkerwater Beach Lodge, taking the tour with your rental car becomes rewarding, allowing for various stops along the route.
DE HOOP NATURE RESERVE
De Hoop Nature Reserve, nestled along South Africa’s picturesque southern coast, is a haven of breathtaking coastal landscapes and rich biodiversity. This protected area is celebrated for its diverse wildlife, including Cape mountain zebras, elands, and a plethora of bird species, as well as its role as a vital sanctuary for southern right whales during their calving season. Visitors can explore a network of hiking trails winding through fynbos-covered hills and along tranquil De Hoop Vlei, indulge in excellent whale-watching experiences, and relish stargazing beneath pristine night skies. With various accommodation options, from self-catering cottages to elegant manor houses, De Hoop offers an idyllic retreat for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature’s wonders and conservation efforts.
SUITE, VP & ACTIVITIES
Lekkerwater Beach Lodge is located in an exclusive area of the 34,000 hectare De Hoop Nature Reserve, about 3 hours drive from Cape Town. The former “Camp David” of ex-president Frederik de Klerk is an oasis of relaxation. It opens up fantastic panoramic views of the ocean off the southern tip of Africa and makes the protection of the wonderful, fragile marine ecosystem its top priority.
Incidentally, one of only 7 suites in total, so there are never more than 12 guests in the lodge at any one time. The wrap-around main deck offers magnificent sunrise and sunset views, and the interactive kitchen and communal table invite guests to share delicious food and warm hospitality.
Dolphins and seals enjoy cavorting in the local waters here. The nature reserve is also home to some 260 bird species, including the endangered Cape vulture, and more than 1,500 plant species of fynbos vegetation found only in the Western Cape, which blooms in the southern autumn (April to May) and spring (September to October).
Since the lodge is elevated on a dune, the 5 km long magnificent beach is accessible via some steps and steeper paths. Active vacationers and families with children ages 6 and up will find year-round fulfilment at Lekkerwater Beach Lodge with walks and hikes guided by nature experts, for the sake of the environment without any TV, minibar, or air conditioning.
As soon as you enter the spacious suite, the view through the floor-to-ceiling windows falls on the azure sea and the seven kilometre long sandy beach. Inside, earthy tones, high-quality furniture, and a wood-burning stove provide a cosy ambiance. A glass of wine on the terrace at sunset is especially nice.
CLASSIC KING ROOM, BREAKFAST INCLUDE
The stylish and elegant Cape Diem Lodge – Boutique Hotel is housed in a beautiful Victorian mansion dating back to 1888 and is set against the stunning backdrop of Signal Hill. In 2007, the house was extensively restored for the first time. On January 11, 2008, Huis Uitsig, as it was originally known, was reborn as Cape Diem Lodge, a 5-star boutique hotel, and since then it has welcomed travellers from around the world.
Offering guests a refreshing alternative to ordinary city hotels, Cape Diem Lodge has been designed to make your stay a unique and comfortable experience.
Our large King rooms are newly renovated and elegantly furnished, both in the original farmhouse and in our new pool house. The room in the main house features double height ceilings, original Oregon pine floors and bay windows. The private bath offers a walk-in shower and a free standing tub. Our superior king-size room in the pool house has a modern design and offers a private bath with shower and tub, and a private deck with sun loungers for relaxing.
Breakfast is served daily between 07:30 and 10:00. The breakfast consists of a rich continental buffet followed by delicious hot breakfast dishes to choose from a menu, freshly squeezed juices, Simonsig Methode Cap Classique from the Stellenbosch Winelands and Cape Town made coffee.
As you depart from our lodge, we offer convenient services to enhance your journey. If you’re leaving early for a day trip or heading to the airport, the team can prepare a complimentary takeaway breakfast – a “Cape Diem Breakfast to Go” –ensuring you have a delightful meal on the way. Please ensure to communicate your preferences to the team with a 24-hour notice for orders.
"*" indicates required fields
You like this journey and want to request it for you or your loved ones? Click here.
This journey is a good foundation, but you want to give it your signature? Click here.
"*" indicates required fields
