Highbourne Cottages — Hotel in Okhahlamba Local Municipality

Highbourne Cottages is a hidden gem nestled in the foothills that lie under the shadows of the mighty Cathkin Peak vistas of the Drakensberg. The accommodation is shrouded in the embrace of a beautiful lush landscape comprising of typical indigenous trees and shrubs. There are only two cottages available which makes it a peaceful setting for a weekend getaway. The host Lindsey is pleasant and was readily available via Whatsapp to respond to all of our questions regarding directions and location of the establishment. We booked the Aloe Cottage which accommodates 4 guests comfortably. The cottage is west facing which means that you have exceptional uninterrupted views of Cathkin Peak, Monks Cowl, Champagne Castle, the Amphlett, Turret, Sterkhorn and the Dragons Back Peaks from a open patio (equipped with gas braai & a comfortable patio set). The cottage is decorated in typical “Drakensberg style” country cottage theme with a cosy cast iron fireplace (be sure to carry along your own wood as the establishment doesn’t provide any). As an important note, the establishment is run completely offgrid powered by a solar array so no energy intensive devices or appliances are allowed to be used. I would also suggest carrying one’s own potable water as the property is supplied by mountain streams. We are a family of hikers so if you are too then there are numerous trails that lead directly from the property to destinations like The Sphinx, Blindman’s Corner and for the adventurous, Monks Cowl. The property is very well maintained and there is a great attention to detail. One very novel feature was the outdoor shower which we thoroughly enjoyed. The perfect view of the mountains while you take a hot shower is a great way to end the day for the weary hiker (or 3). The driveway leading up to the cottages is fairly steep but a competent driver with a relaxed disposition and even tempered gas pedal foot will make light work of the traverse. Our only moderate gripe was that the cottages are not serviced during our stay but this was not a deal breaker. To conclude, our time at Highbourne, was nothing short of refreshing and peaceful. A real piece of tranquility, exemplified. We will certainly return to make more...

We stayed at Protea Cottage, the newer of the two cottages at Highbourne, which is well-equipped and comfortable. It's located at the end of the R600, near the entrance to Monk's Cowl area of the Drakensberg. You can access many nice trails directly from the cottage. The view from the porch is glorious, especially at sunset. Cathkin Park is a great location, and we easily filled our 6 days there. We went ziplining, hiking, swimming in the streams, horseback riding at uShaka, and saw the Falcon Ridge Bird of Prey show. We unfortunately missed whitewater rafting and the Boys Choir show.|Leslie communicated thoroughly ahead of time about check-in and other details so there were no surprises. We also loved that it was off the grid, but with the solar panels, who noticed? The kitchen had all the necessary items, including a camp toaster and a French press for coffee.|Lindsey and Brett don't live on site, but they stopped by a couple of times, and they were friendly and helpful. Their caretakers were there daily and kept everything in good order.|The last bit of the R600 is littered with potholes, so take care, especially at night or in the rain when they're hard to see. The driveway is steep and rough. It's best with a 4 x 4, but we did it with a Corolla type sedan and made it. It did, however, keep us from going...

I took a break to the Central Drakensberg to have some adventures for my 50th birthday like doing the canopy tour (zipline) and a hot air balloon flight.

The road was in a very good condition from Pretoria. There are a few potholes, but nothing significant.

I stayed in Aloe cottage at Highbourne Cottages and completely fell in love. If I should ever dissapear from life, this is where you'd find me. The location is breathtaking and there is access to so many trails. The views are out of this world - my soul found peace. Highbourne cottages are also proudly off-grid with gas oven and solar panels. I never struggled with power.

The interior was amazing and so much attention to detail was given in every room. From the complimentary fire wood for the fireplace, to warm water bottles next to the bed to stay warm. And for summer there is an outdoor shower with a view!

Lindsey was an amazing host and was always friendly and available when I wanted to know something. Thank you so much for sharing this precious gem with me. I loved...