The spectacular scenery, crisp mountain air and azure blue skies have always made the Drakensberg one of my favourite destinations.
The three-star rated Drakensberg Gardens Golf & Spa Resort in the southern Berg is one of the places I’ve enjoyed since childhood.
Although I don’t head there for the golf, I don’t mind watching others whack little white balls on the only 18-hole course in the area,as there is so much else to do such as tennis, bowls, putt-putt, volleyball, badminton, horse riding, squash, canoeing, trout fishing, trail running – and, of course, ambling and hiking in the 350ha World Heritage site.
And now, due to the growth and popularity of mountain biking, Drakensberg Gardens have developed a single track at the resort. The route is 12km long and passes by the resort’s picturesque dam, through the golf course as well as the lush pine forest and is suitable for all riders of all levels. Bikes are also made available from the hotel reception.
For the kids there is a Discovery Park, where they can get to know nature’s creatures in a mini- farmyard with birds and rabbits.
You could also head for the Wellness Centre which features a fully equipped gym studio, group training sessions, sunbeds beside a cold plunge pool and an indoor heated jet therapy pool, a steam room and two saunas as well as a juice bar. A full range of beauty treatments and massages is available from the spa.
And if you’re all exercised out, or over the urge to, laze around one of the swimming pools.
The Drakensberg Gardens Golf Leisure Resort is the ideal venue for conferences. Two state-of-the-art conference/function venues that seat up to 200 guests are suitable for conferences, dinners and weddings.
The resort has a range of spacious and comfortable accommodation with standard, superior and deluxe rooms.
All have private bathrooms, television, telephones, tea and coffee making facilities and heaters. The deluxe rooms also include under-floor heating.
There’s also the option of four-, five- and six-sleeper, fully equipped self-catering units.
If you feel you need a break from cooking and child care, you can request a babysitter at reception and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.
Rates start at R599 per person sharing in a standard room on a bed and breakfast basis, plus R140 for dinner. Deluxe rooms are R679 per person sharing.
For reservations call 033 701 1106, e-mail: [email protected] or visit www.goodersonleisure.co.za - Sunday Tribune