Fordoun Hotel & Spa | Midlands Meander
Fordoun Hotel and Spa is an award-winning luxury boutique hotel and spa located near Nottingham Road in the scenic KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. It is a family owned and managed destination with a history dating back to the 1800’s. Fordoun has a strong ethos on personalised hospitality and authenticity. The hotel comprises 22 luxurious, comfortable individually styled rooms and the relatively new addition self-catering farm village offering 11 fully equipped cottages, a chapel and a wedding/conference venue.
With panoramic views of the Drakensberg, in a tranquil country setting, the feeling of romance is almost tangible. Fordoun was created with the vision that every guest should leave feeling rejuvenated, find value in their Fordoun experience and change guests’ lives!
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Our induvidually themed luxury rooms have a king-size bed, bathroom with bath and shower, under floor heating in the bathroom and bedrooms, tea and coffee making facilities and mini bar area. All rooms have a TV and Netflix.
Our Deluxe suites have a view of our rolling lawns and trout dam. Each room has a king-size bed, dressing-room area, bathroom with bath and shower, under floor heating in both bathroom and bedroom, air-conditioning, private balconies, TV and Netflix.
Our Superior Mountain View Suites are individual units with majestic views of the Drakensberg. Each suite has a king-size bed, separate lounge area, TV and Netflix and fireplace. The his and hers dressing-room area and bathroom are spacious with a workspace desk for those still needing to work. The underfloor heated bathroom has both an indoor and outdoor shower. The private verandah with its water feature and magnificent views is perfect to enjoy the beautiful sunsets.
Two bed-roomed self catering chalet. The bathrooms are en-suite with both bath and shower. The chalet has a full kitchen, lounge, fireplace and braai facilities. The chalet has Wi-Fi, DSTV and Netflix.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Chapel, Conference Centre, Disability Services, Eco Friendly, Gym, Gym (nearby), Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, TV Room
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath, Clothes Press, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Iron / Ironing Board, Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Underfloor Heating, Verandah, Wheelchair Friendly
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Credit Card, Room Service
Spa
REIMAGINE RELAXATION
Fordoun Spa is in the heart of Nottingham Road, Midlands Meander and boasts a team of experts that include skilled masseuses, Reiki and Bio-energy specialists, a traditional African Healer and highly trained aestheticians.
The spa features internationally acclaimed treatments such as the rasul, (a Turkish steam and clay treatment room), a saline floatation pool, an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a gymnasium, sauna, jacuzzi, steam room, hydrotherapy, and two couple’s treatment suites with hydrotherapy baths.
TREATMENTS AT FORDOUN SPA INCLUDE:
Aromatherapy body and bath treatments, using exotic blends of essential oils to suit each customer’s needs
Totally unique African treatments which include the Indulgent African Earth Experience and the Inkomfe (African Potato) healing wraps
Hydrotherapy baths and showers
Various massages, including Deep Tissue massage, Ndukuduku massage, Swedish and Aromatherapy
Feet and hand treatments (Reflexology, Manicure & Pedicure)
Waxing
Lash and brow tinting
Body scrubs and spray tanning
A range of facials tailor made for every skin type
An array of high intensity slimming treatments that target all parts of the body
Pampering massages and treatments for our “Mums to be”
Skye Bistro
FINE DINING
Our fine dining restaurant, Skye Bistro, uses only the freshest local produce available and is open seven days a week for hotel guests and day visitors in search of luxurious country cuisine with some modern infusions in a tranquil setting.
Skye Bistro is named after the Isle of Skye, largest and northernmost of the major islands in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland. From beautiful log burning fires in the winter evenings to watching the sunset from the veranda over the rolling lawns of Fordoun; Skye Bistro is the perfect place to have a relaxing sumptuous meal. From farm style breakfasts, lighter café style lunches to delicious dinners, Skye bistro captures the leisure of a bygone era. For the more health conscious to those seeking more decadent treats, we cater to all needs.
At Skye Bistro we use fresh, mostly local produce. The culinary team take great pride in preparing all meals with care and attention to detail.
Wine connoisseurs should be rather pleased with our private wine collection of over 63 local estate wines, sparkling wines and French champagnes all personally selected by owner Jon Bates.
Your Stay
2 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Hotel
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, Zulu
No. Rooms: 22
Special Interests: Birding, Cycling, Fishing, Golf, Hiking, Leisure
Semonkong Lodge | Lesotho
Situated on the Maletsunyane River, Semonkong Lodge is hidden away in the Maluti Mountains. Accommodation options include stone rooms, thatch rooms and rondavels. Each features electricity, a telephone and a fireplace. Wi-Fi access is available at an additional charge. Guests can make use of the communal kitchens or enjoy the on-site restaurant, The Duck & Donkey. The property is ideally located to enjoy numerous activities including hiking, mountain biking and cultural tours.
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Your Stay
3 Nights
Half Board - Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
The Oyster Box | Umhlanga
Standing proud on Umhlanga’s beachfront, overlooking the historical Umhlanga lighthouse, The Oyster Box has long been one of South Africa’s best-loved and most distinguished hotels. This 86-room hotel is renowned for its generous hospitality, attentive service and exceptional cuisine. The elegant rooms, decorated with antiques, feature private balconies (many with sea views), flat-screen TVs, free WiFi, tea and coffeemaking facilities, and fresh fruit and flowers. Suites add separate lounges; some have private plunge pools. There's a complimentary buffet breakfast, a fine-dining restaurant and multiple eateries/bars. Other amenities include a spa with a hammam, an oceanfront outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness centre. There's also a 24-seat cinema and a kids' activity programme.
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The elegant Classic Garden Facing Rooms, all overlook the hotel’s lush, tranquil gardens.
Each charming Classic Sea Facing Room has a balcony that opens on to uninterrupted views of Umhlanga’s historic lighthouse and KwaZulu Natal’s breath-taking coastline. These rooms have a bath or shower and a single vanity.
Our beautifully appointed Luxury Sea Facing Rooms each offer a balcony that opens on to uninterrupted views of Umhlanga’s historic lighthouse and KwaZulu Natal’s breath-taking coastline. All rooms offer a double vanity feature in the bathrooms along with spacious separate shower and bath.
These beautiful Junior Cabanas are located on the lower ground level with stunning sea views and leading out onto the grassed area in front. All rooms consists of a four-poster king bed with an en-suite bathroom offering a shower and single vanity.
The stunning Sea Facing Cabanas present gorgeous king size Four Poster beds and are all located on the lower ground floor, boasting individual spacious balcony terraces and exceptional beachfront views.
The Oyster Box is designed for the absolute comfort of each family. There are 5 private Sea Facing Family Rooms, each with not only a master bedroom, but an additional room or loft for the younger members of the family.
Individually decorated, all of the striking and eclectic Sea Facing Suites comprise of one well-appointed bedroom with a lavish separate lounge
Individually decorated, the Sea Facing Deluxe Suites comprise of one bedroom with a luxurious separate lounge. The Deluxe suites are located on the lower ground and boast their own private plunge pools and terrace.
These spectacular Superior Garden Villas are nestled in the hotel’s lush gardens and all have an inviting private plunge pool, terrace, gorgeous lounge, complimented by a bar and an opulent spacious bathroom. 4 of the 8 villas can be converted into a 2 bed-roomed villa by reserving an additional Garden Villa Lofts.
Our pretty garden-facing Garden Villa Loft Rooms are available as separate accommodation or, with the combination of a Superior Garden Villa, ideal for the out-and-about visitor. Each room is individually and superbly decorated. All Garden Villa rooms offer a 4-charming king size Poster Bed and ample space.
The epitome of indulgence; this grandeur and stylish Presidential Suite is split over two exquisitely decorated levels and boasts a private elevator. The extravagantly decorated master bedroom includes a relaxing seating area and an intimate personal study. There are two lavish marble bathrooms – his and hers. Unparalleled sea views complimented by opulence and tranquillity beyond compare. Other incomparable features of this gracious suit include a private rim-flow swimming pool, an elegant lounge, and a tasteful dining room with seating for 8 guests, complimented further by a bar and a beautifully equipped kitchen. There is also an additional bedroom. This unrivalled décor incorporates white timber floors and marble and white Caesar stone.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Business Centre, Conference Centre, Disability Services, Gym, Internet Access, Kiddies Club, Library, Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fan, Heated Towel Rails, Heater, Internet, Mini Bar, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Verandah
Services
Airport Shuttle, Babysitting Service, Chauffer Service, Credit Card, Foreign Exchange, Laundry Service, Room Service, Room Service (24 hours)
If you’re a foodie looking for something a little ‘out of the ordinary’, need a unique event menu, or are keen to impress somebody special - then don’t miss the opportunity to take a front row seat with Executive Chef Kevin Joseph and his ace Team, for an extraordinary dining experience at The Chef’s Table in The Kitchen at The Oyster Box.
Your evening begins in the elegant Oyster Bar with pre-dinner drinks and live music from our resident musician, before being taken ‘behind the scenes’ where your culinary journey begins, with a tour of the working kitchen and your amuse bouche of Champagne and Canapes.
As the drama of this busy kitchen in ‘full service’ mode unfolds, watch as the Chefs prepare a delicious 5-course paired menu before your eyes. The Chef’s Table is available for groups of between six and 10 guests, from from Monday to Sunday for Dinner only.
Direct beach access to a swimming beach
Children between the ages of four and 12 years, have access to the supervised Holiday Club during their stay. .
Other vacation activities include story-telling, face painting, art and craft activities, pizza-making and movie screenings. Special programmes are offered during peak periods such as school holidays, Easter, Christmas and New Year.
The Holiday Club is open daily from 10h00 to 19h00
For a more intimate dining experience, the Wine Cellar, with its glass ceiling, is sunken just below the Oyster Bar and is unique for dinner parties, corporate functions, tastings or special events and offers a Chef’s Table for up to 10 guests.
Bespoke menus are created for every occasion and the resident Sommelier will present a selection of wines from the Diners Club Diamond award-winning wine list, which boasts the finest selection of South African and international vintages.
An intimate, 24-seater cinema/screening room is available to hotel guests. Each month a new schedule is set, running a new movie five times a day (10h00, 14h00, 18h00, 20h00 and 22h00).
24 hour access
We are dedicated to restoring beauty and balance through individual treatments and spa journeys, personalised for each of our guests by exceptionally skilled therapists. Our commitment to wellbeing focuses on holistic principles, combining ancient wisdom and modern expertise.
The Spa at The Oyster Box uses a variety of internationally-recognised treatment products as well as its own exclusive, signature range of all natural, body-care products and professional spa treatments B|Africa. This deluxe range combines indigenous African plant extracts and the natural goodness of West Coast Atlantic sea-salts.
B| Africa uses sustainable harvesting practices on renewable indigenous species, such as oil from the baobab tree, marula oil, avocado butter, honey, rooibos, Mongongo nut and Ximenia kernel oil. In addition, the range includes carefully-crafted B|Africa Spa treatment packages.
Our state of the art, 24 hour complimentary Business Centre, located on the first floor adjacent to the cinema, is available to all hotel guests. There are two desks, each with a computer, printer and a refreshment station offering thoughtful details such as dried fruit and mineral water, as well as tea and coffee on request. The Business Centre offers complimentary internet and the entire hotel has complimentary wireless Internet if you prefer to work from your room. The Business Centre also has a fax, black and white photocopier and secretarial services as available on request. Shipping and packaging, laminating and binding can be arranged directly with our concierge deck at an additional cost.
Clock Library
The legendary Grill Room has been renowned for its fine dining and outstanding cuisine for almost 70 years.
The menu is an inspired combination of classic favourites, created by Bea Tollman, president and founder of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, the restaurant’s Signature Dishes and contemporary creations, inspired by current global trends.
Classic Grill Room touches include the authentic Gueridon service, where food is prepared and presented at the individual diner’s table and the Classic 1920’s Hors d’ Oeuvres Trolley, with an extensive range of 18 ‘old world’ appetizers.
The beautiful Ocean Terrace restaurant, with gorgeous views across the Indian Ocean, serves a Bistro-style menu and is perfect for casual, al fresco and family dining. With something to suit every palate favourite dishes include freshly baked pizzas from the wood-fire pizza oven, sustainably sourced seafood and a host of perennial favourites such as fish and chips. The Ocean Terrace also serves a delicious English Breakfast daily, as well as an a la carte menu for lunch and dinner.
Also on offer in the Ocean Terrace, the incredible Curry Buffet, including authentic Tandoori Chicken, continues to attract fans from far and wide. Using delicate hand-blended combinations of spices and fresh herbs, the extensive selection of Curries includes, meat, fish and vegetarian option - making each curry a masterpiece!
The Ocean Terrace is also the perfect backdrop for a relaxed sundowner overlooking the rim flow pool and sea.
Inspired by The Oyster Box’s original, colonial architecture with four magnificent tole and ceramic chandeliers purchased from the Savoy Hotel in London, natural sunlight and towering Palms, The Palm Court is the venue for the legendary High Tea each afternoon. It’s also a favourite meeting spot for casual dining and the ideal place to enjoy the Evening Indulgence treat.
High Tea is a lengthy, leisurely affair with live piano music a welcome addition to the occasion. All pastries and baked goods are prepared on the property by executive pastry chef, Joanita Venter and her team. The high tea table is a visual and taste spectacle of sumptuous treats, with everything from freshly baked scones, pastries, quiches and cakes, to finger sandwiches and savouries.
Richly inviting with its dark wooden panels and details in leather, crimson and gold, the Lighthouse Bar has a large terrace for spectacular views of the iconic lighthouse and the Indian Ocean. With live music, delicious light snack meals and exotic cocktails, this is the hottest bar in KwaZulu-Natal.
Overlooking the infinity pool and Indian Ocean, the stylish Oyster Bar specialises in Champagne and Oysters, freshly harvested from our own Oyster beds and also offers a light menu, delicious cocktails and live music.
This authentic old world bar is full of charm and character. It has remained a firm favourite with the locals for over 40 years, serving delicious hearty snacks and the finest selection of whiskeys, beers and cigars.
Your Stay
1 Night
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
5 Star
Hotel
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, Zulu
No. Rooms: 86
Special Interests: Beach / Coastal, Birding, Fishing, Golf, Gourmet, History & Culture, Leisure, Relaxation, Shopping, Watersports, Wine
Baines' River Camp | Lower Zambezi
Set under Jackalberry and Tamarind trees on the banks of the Zambezi River, you will find Baines', River Lodge. Combining the tradition of an era gone past with modern world luxury, Baines' is the ultimate escape for the refined traveler.
Baines River Camp can accommodate 20 people in 8 Explorer Suites and a Family Suite. Each luxurious, freestanding suite offers an atmosphere of elegance and privacy, boasting spectacular views over the Zambezi River. The suites are equipped with air-conditioning, Ceiling fans, minibars, personal safes, king-size beds, and spacious bathrooms.
The Camp location in the Lower Zambezi means guests are never far from exceptional wildlife and river experiences. Activities include game drives and walks in the Lower Zambezi National Park. Alternatively, explore the Zambezi River by motorboat and canoe or have a chance at catching a tigerfish.
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Baines' Two-Bedroom Family Suit x 1
The Cottage is ideally suited to a young family or up to 3 adults.
The unit comprises:
1. The main bedroom, offering a King size bed, walk-in wardrobe, and en-suite bathroom.
2. The children's bedroom, offering twin beds, built-in cupboards. Separate bathroom.
3. A river-facing veranda with a 2-meter sofa, 2 occasional chairs, coffee table, 6-seater dining room table,
3. An open plan lounge and dining area with kitchenette.
Both bathrooms offer a single basin, large walk-in shower, toilet.
General amenities include air-conditioning (operational during generator hours), ceiling fan in both bedrooms, coffee and tea making facilities, hairdryer, personal safe, luxury bathroom amenities, personal insect repellent, torch, whistle to attract the attention of a watchman in case of an emergency.
Explorer Suites
Each elegantly furnished Explorer Suite offers:
A spacious bedroom with King size (XL) bed, which can be converted to twins, a writing desk, a leather occasional chair with footstool
A bath & dressing room with double basins, large walk-in shower, separate toilet
A river-facing veranda with a 2 metre sofa, occasional chair, coffee table
Two of these Suites offer additional outside showers and are usually allocated to honeymooners or guests celebrating a special event.
General amenities include air-conditioning (operational during generator hours), ceiling fan, coffee and tea making facilities, hairdryer, personal safe, luxury bathroom amenities, personal insect repellent, torch, whistle to attract the attention of a watchman in case of an emergency.
These Twin suites are ideal for single travellers and older children travelling with their parents.
Each elegantly furnished Suite offers:
A bedroom with twin beds and occasional chair.
A bath & dressing room with single basin, spacious walk-in shower, separate toilet
A river-facing veranda with a 2 meter sofa, occasional chair, coffee table
General amenities include air-conditioning (operational during generator hours), ceiling fan, coffee and tea making facilities, hair dryer, personal safe, luxury bathroom amenities, personal insect repellent, torch, whistle to attract attention of a watchman in case of an emergency.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Communal Dining, Conference Centre, Internet Access (Complimentary), Internet Access (Paid), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Mini Bar, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Services
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card
Your best chance to see and photograph predators, large herds of buffalo etc. is on a game drive in an open viewing vehicle.
When possible, our guests enjoy the use of a private vehicle and dedicated guide.
Best time to visit: June - November
River cruises make for relaxed game viewing, photography and bird watching. You will be entertained by baboons, hippo, elephant, crocodiles,water buck
and the occasional buffalo on the river bank and the Zambezi’s various islands.
Best time to visit: 01 March – 30 November
Sunset cruises make for a spectacular end to a day in the bush. (01 March – 15 December)
Anglers visit the Zambezi River especially to catch Tiger Fish, a fearsome game fish. Strict catch and release policy. (01 September – 30 November)
Canoe safaris give a totally different perspective to the African wilderness. (01 June – 15 December)
Walking safaris are not for the faint-hearted and are best suited during winter months. On a walking safari the focus is mainly on tracks, vegetation, birds,
butterflies etc. (01 June – 30 September)
Your Stay
4 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
4 Star
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 10
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Fishing, Gourmet, Leisure, Relaxation, Wildlife
