Four-star Moorcroft Manor on the outskirts of Himeville is the perfect getaway for discerning visitors to the southern Drakensberg World Heritage site.
Moorcroft manor was purchased in January last year by Mario and Goolu Kropf from Switzerland, and Alta and Andrew Muir from Howick, after which they set about transforming this beautiful intimate manor. A complete refurbishment – at considerable expense – has taken place inside and out.
Moorcroft is 25km from Sani Pass, so tours up the pass into Lesotho are easily accessible.
The historic Reichenau Mission near Underberg is also worth a visit, though relaxing in the gardens or in the lounge with a book is recommended for the more sedentary. The natural pool is great for taking a dip while getting close to the bird life.
Moorcroft Manor is within a wetland so birders will have plenty to spot, and fisherfolk will enjoy the large dam with plenty of bass. Wandering walks and mountain biking are other options.
There are nine standard rooms, two executive suites and a junior suite. All are en-suite, with king-size beds as standard.
Each room has its own adjoining private patio leading on to the lawns and the rock pool with an uninterrupted view towards Hodgson’s Peak.
I was so comfortably ensconced in my standard room that I didn’t think to enquire about the executive option, which offers bigger rooms and separate bath and shower. Self catering will soon be available.
The owners consulted with chef and restaurateur John Porcelli when revamping. Also, with his input dinners have become sumptuous affairs, offering the likes of grilled Midlands trout, duck in marmalade or pork fillet in cider, followed by strawberry mille-feuille.
The mountain air seems to spark the appetite so full English breakfasts (with healthy fruits and yoghurts, of course) on the verandah in the morning are surprisingly easily accomodated, as is a ploughman’s platter with Berg cheeses or a camembert, salmon and horseradish salad, or steak and caramelised onions on ciabatta for a “light” lunch. In fact you may consider a lunch only visit.
Moorcroft is 230km from Durban. Rates currently begin at R723.90pp sharing (R820.80 single), on a bed and breakfast basis, two per room. An executive suite is R900.60pp sharing. Children from four to 11 years stay at half price on the single rate.
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