Durban - The stretch from Nottingham Road to Fort Nottingham, with views toward the mountains, is enchanting, Whispering Waters no less so. Any reservations about visiting a place that opened a month before our visit were immediately dispelled, as the 155 hectares of rolling hills, pastures, glistening dams and river frontage are timelessly beautiful and the cottages blend in perfectly.
We were warmly welcomed at reception, where guests can buy fishing flies, wood, firelighters and charcoal, hire fishing rods and mini golf clubs or choose from a selection of board games and dvds.
Morning mist lingered around the 12 cottages, which range from one to four-bedroom self-catering units. There are various design themes and we were cocooned in Afro-chic unit seven. It is well appointed with two large bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen with espresso machine to cater for hearty appetites.
Since bracing weather can be around the corner any time it’s wonderful to have underfloor heating and a fireplace. There is also a flat screen TV with DStv, an iPod docking station-cum music centre with dvd player, and wi-fi.
As we stepped out on to the patio the sun burned off the last of the mist, revealing glorious views of the farm, dams and fields. So enticing were they that we set out to explore, rods in hand.
We cast into the nearest of the 10 dams and were rewarded with a number of trout, one of which we excitedly took back to our abode for dinner.
Flushed with success, we ventured further afield, somewhat envious of others on their bikes as this is wonderful terrain for all levels of mountain biking.
We had a more than pleasant stroll through the endlessly undulating landscape, peeling off layers of clothing. It was tempting to dip in the dams, or the rock-hewn pool, but the water was way too cold and we grabbed a canoe instead. A word of warning: canoeing together can test relationships but once you’re in sync it’s a fun workout.
On an evening stroll we were thrilled to spot a couple of otters and returned with porcupine quill souvenirs to get the fire going and enjoy a trout dinner.
The next day we spent a leisurely morning playing outdoor chess and adventure golf. We also found time to make forays along the Midlands Meander: Shuttleworth Weavers on the way to Nottingham Road with its brewery and the stunning new installation at the Nelson Mandela Capture Site. All in all, a fabulous few days. - Sunday Tribune
Call 033 266 6893, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.whisperingwaters.co.za. Rates start at R299 per person per day.